Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Authentic Hickory-Smoked Barbecue in Knoxville
Since 1972, Buddy's Bar B Q has been a cornerstone of East Tennessee's dining scene, rooted in family tradition and Southern hospitality. Our commitment to quality begins with meats slow-cooked onsite daily in hickory pits, using recipes perfected over generations. From our humble beginnings in a 24-seat Knoxville location to operating 19 restaurants today, we've maintained the same dedication to authentic flavors and community connection. Our menu features classics like Smoky Ribs and tableside Hushpuppies alongside innovative offerings like Hawg Back Fries, all served in a welcoming atmosphere where 68% of sales come from off-premises dining.With drive-thru convenience and catering services, we ensure our signature 'Smokin' Good Deal' remains accessible to every guest. Third-generation family ownership continues to guide our mission of delivering exceptional value through time-honored bar-b-q traditions.
Services
Catering Services
Banquet Hall
Drive-Thru
Barbecue Catering
Homemade Desserts
Family Meal Packs
Catering
Bar-B-Q Catering
Event Catering
Custom Catering
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1972 with third-generation leadership maintaining original quality standards
- All meats hickory-smoked onsite daily using time-tested recipes
- Drive-thru service accommodating 44% of sales for meal convenience
- Catering services and banquet hall available for special events
- Signature homemade Hot Fudge Cake and other desserts made in-house
Services
Catering Services
Buddy's Custom Catering delivers authentic hickory-smoked barbecue to events of all sizes. Our offerings include slow-cooked meats, traditional sides, and homemade desserts with full-service coordination. Clients receive personalized menu planning, on-site preparation options, and delivery from our experienced catering team.
Barbecue Catering
We provide full-service barbecue catering featuring meats smoked onsite daily using hickory wood. Options include pork sandwiches, smoky ribs, and turkey platters with classic accompaniments like macaroni and cheese. Catering packages accommodate groups from 10 to 200+ guests with setup and service staff available.
Banquet Hall
The Bearden Banquet Hall offers a versatile venue for weddings, corporate events, and family gatherings. The space includes audiovisual equipment, customizable seating, and full catering access from our menu. Our event coordinators assist with planning from initial booking through execution.
Drive-Thru Service
Our drive-thru provides fast access to full menu offerings including signature items like Hawg Back Fries and Tuesday Dinner Specials. Designed for efficiency, this service accounts for 44% of sales while maintaining quality through optimized order preparation and pickup lanes.
Homemade Desserts
We produce daily fresh desserts using family recipes, including our award-winning Hot Fudge Cake. Options feature hand-spun milkshakes, seasonal pies, and cookies made with quality ingredients. Desserts are available for dine-in, takeout, and catering events.
People
Brad Wantland
Director of Training
With over 15 years at Buddy's, Brad progressed from hourly employee to director of training, managing operations at high-volume locations before assuming his current role in 2020.
Sandy Hayes
Regional Manager
A 40-year veteran of Buddy's, Sandy advanced from cashier to regional manager, overseeing multiple locations while maintaining operational excellence since joining in 1985.
Sonya Paris
Regional Manager
With 35 years of experience, Sonya transitioned from cashier to regional manager, leading locations for over two decades before assuming her current leadership role in 2024.
Questions
What catering options are available for large events?
Buddy's Custom Catering offers full-service barbecue catering with meats smoked onsite daily, traditional sides, and homemade desserts for events up to 200+ guests.
Do you offer banquet facilities for weddings or corporate events?
The Bearden Banquet Hall provides a dedicated event space with audiovisual equipment and customizable seating, supported by our catering team for weddings and corporate functions.
What are the signature menu items?
Our signature items include slow-cooked pork sandwiches, smoky ribs, tableside Hushpuppies, and the award-winning Hot Fudge Cake made with homemade chocolate fudge.
Are there drive-thru service options?
All locations feature drive-thru service accounting for 44% of sales, offering full menu access including daily specials and family meal packs.
What is the history of Buddy's bar-b-q?
Founded in 1972 by Buddy Smothers and LaMuriel, the first location opened in Knoxville. Now third-generation family-owned, we've expanded to 19 East Tennessee locations.
Do you offer catering for smaller gatherings?
Yes, our catering services accommodate groups from 10 to 200+ guests with customizable menu options and delivery available from all locations.
