BURLINGTON, IA (BBQ CRITIC) Billy Sims BBQ entered my life in 2017 in Cedar Rapids, IA when I was hired part-time. Two weeks later I had to quit due to a scheduling conflict. During my short span of employment, I learned through their processes and strong leadership (thanks to co-owners Brandon Mosley and Jeremy Music) that Billy Sims BBQ makes real, delicious barbecue. It was a bummer I had to quit, but I became a loyal customer.
In 2020 COVID hit America hard. The Derecho Storm devastated all of Cedar Rapids. This and other factors created the perfect storm. By 2022 the Cedar Rapids store closed. Brandon and Jeremy still had their original store in Burlington, Iowa and it continued to thrive. It's now located in a new building closer to the populous driving in more traffic. A blessing, indeed.
BILLY SIMS BBQ IN CEDAR RAPIDS IOWA WHEN THEY OPENED IN 2017
I recently attended their 10th Year Anniversary Celebration to present the BBQ CRITIC HALL OF FAME plaque to the store owners and football legend Billy Sims. Billy has a way with fans. Very giving of his time by signing autographs, taking photos and engaging in conversations. Billy's down-to-earth personality is reflected in the company's corporate culture. It's been like this from the very the beginning.
BILLY SIMS SIGNING AUTOGRAPHS FOR FANS
It all started back 2004 when former Detroit Lions running back (1980-84) and 1978 Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims teamed up with co-founder Jeff Jackson and opened their first Billy Sims BBQ in Tulsa, OK. When they started to franchise, the brand took off like a tight spiraled football on a predictable path to success. Billy caught each pass! The rest is history.
Video Interview: Billy Sims
Brandon and Jeremy chose the Billy Sims BBQ concept after doing their due diligence. They saw how the food and service was consistent in other stores. BBQ and football they both love. The corporate office left them with a good impression. Great folks (like a mom and pop feel). Always ready to help and listen to new ideas.
Meeting other franchisees and touring their stores really started to solidify their decision. Brandon said, "Everything started adding up. This looks like a company we could work with. Real good people."
Billy Sims is one prime example of "good people." Listen to this 2 min. audio clip from my interview with Brandon telling me a very touching story about Billy Sims and a fan during the store opening in 2016.
Meeting other franchisees and touring their stores really started to solidify their decision. Brandon said, "Everything started adding up. This looks like a company we could work with. Real good people."
Billy Sims is one prime example of "good people." Listen to this 2 min. audio clip from my interview with Brandon telling me a very touching story about Billy Sims and a fan during the store opening in 2016.
I've tried all meats from the Billy Sims BBQ menu over the years. Ribs, brisket, pork, sausages etc. - all smokey, juicy and delicious. The staff are mindful of keeping everything fresh and hot. They slice to order, which retains the juices in their meats.
The smoked bologna sandwich is so good. I love it! When I attended the 10 year celebration, I ordered The Heisman sandwich piled high with sausage, pork and bologna. I topped it off with a moderate portion of BBQ sauce and I was in BBQ heaven. That was one delicious meal.
The Heisman at Billy Sims BBQ
In 1995, Billy Sims was inducted into the NFF College Football Hall of Fame. In 2026, Billy Sims BBQ is now inducted in the BBQ CRITIC HALL OF FAME. An injury to Billy's knee ended his football career after 5 seasons. However, his BBQ success is 22 years strong and growing. Billy is still getting touch downs in life with sports fans and BBQ lovers alike.
Brandon Mosley and Jeremy Music made the right decision. Teaming up with Billy Sims BBQ led them to 10 years of success. I do miss the Cedar Rapids store, but I can always road trip to Burlington, IA to get my favorite BBQ sandwich of all time - The Heisman.
Bottom line: Billy Sims BBQ is real people. Real BBQ.
Herb Kane
BBQ CRITIC
Welcome to the BBQ CRITIC HALL OF FAME Team Billy!
Bottom line: Billy Sims BBQ is real people. Real BBQ.
Herb Kane
BBQ CRITIC
Welcome to the BBQ CRITIC HALL OF FAME Team Billy!
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