After starting as a one-of-a-kind food truck, Willie B’s Smokehouse is opening a new brick-and-mortar in Memphis, located at 3716 N Watkins St.
Owners Willie Burton and his wife, Velvetta, are currently renovating the former home of Flair Cleaners, according to a recent commercial electrical permit. Willie tells What Now Memphis he had initially planned to open this location around Thanksgiving, but with construction going so well for him, he says Willie B’s Smokehouse will likely open in late September or early October. The new restaurant will sit next to Ms. D Wings.
Willie B’s Smokehouse has served the Memphis area for more than a decade now, starting in different parking lots with its food truck. The concept is not to be confused with Willie B’s Kitchen & Lounge or its sister concept, Willie B’s Express, both in the Nashville area. The Memphis-based company started to gain recognition for itself after owners entered the Memphis in May International Championship Barbeque Contest, in which their BBQ sauced placed 6th.
When the new brick-and-mortar opens in early fall, customers can expect plenty of slow-roasted turkey legs, beef brisket, pulled pork, and more. This location will be perfect for the company’s first brick-and-mortar. In a city filled with delicious BBQ options, Will B’s Smokehouse will move into a spot with minimal competition other than two Tops Bar-B-Q locations. The new restaurant will undoubtedly serve as a much-needed sit-down restaurant in the area.
