First Springfield-area Billy Sims BBQ to open

The first Springfield-area location of Tulsa, Okla.-based Billy Sims BBQ will open its doors at 11 a.m. July 16 at 3757 S. Glenstone Ave.

The eatery is named for former NFL running back Billy Sims, who won a 1978 Heisman Trophy at the University of Oklahoma and was a 1980 first-round draft pick by the Detroit Lions.

The Springfield restaurant is the 12th location of Billy Sims BBQ, said Jeff Jackson, founder, franchisor and partner with Sims in the franchise.

The Springfield franchise is owned by an investor group – Anita and Bob Smith, Les Harris and Gil Ranz – under the banner of BBQ Lovers LLC.

Jackson said Anita Smith, who has 16 years of experience with Village Inn Corp. and has completed training at the company’s headquarters, will be the operator/manager for the Springfield restaurant.

Jackson said BBQ Lovers LLC has territory rights for the Springfield and Branson regions, and he said they envision three to five locations eventually. Franchise fees start at $25,000 and 6 percent royalties, he said.

Jackson describes Billy Sims BBQ as fast-casual barbecue.

“When you come in the building, you come down the line and … see our meat cutters prepare the meat,” Jackson said. “We have nine meats that are smoked fresh daily.”

He said the eatery is well-known for its St. Louis-style cut ribs, and sides include cole slaw, potato salad and baked beans. The menu also features baked potatoes, salads, chili and chili pie, he said.

The South Glenstone site, formerly Boston Market, is leased for an undisclosed amount from Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Jackson said. The restaurant will start with about 25 employees and will be open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.[[In-content Ad]]