Big Barlow's BBQ Brings Big Flavor To Barnegat

BARNEGAT, NJ — Chris Barlow began his barbecue career in his childhood home of Hillside 21 years ago. After obtaining his culinary degree, Barlow conceptualized Big Barlow BBQ & Catering in Oct. 2018.

The business was officially founded in Jan. 2019. According to Barlow, he sold 600 lbs. of meat on the opening day.

His food truck catering eventually grew into his newly established 21 S. Main Street location. Barlow was the 2019 Winner of Bounty of the Bay and was among the best in Best of Ocean County Wings 2019, as well as Best of Ocean County BBQ 2019. Barlow also worked for Daniel Meyer, a New York City restaurateur.

"For me it's all about being fresh every day," Barlow said. "I try to make everything perfect, and as long as my customers are happy, I'm happy."

According to Barlow, his transition from food truck to restaurant has been smooth and he plans to reopen the food truck aspect of his business in a year. Barlow also plans to expand the restaurant to increase the size of his kitchen and accommodate the growing demand for his food.

Some of the popular items on Barlow's menu are the brisket sandwiches and wings. Barlow makes his own sauces with the Alabama White sauce being a customer favorite. One of the more unique sauces is the peanut butter barbecue sauce, Barlow said.

Veterans and first responders get 10 percent off their order. Teachers get 5 percent off their orders on Fridays. This Veteran's Day, Barlow has a 20 percent discount for veterans.

Barlow also has his own bags customers can buy for $5. Barlow plans to phase out his use of plastic bags and utensils due to being close to waterways.

As for the future of Big Barlow's, Barlow hopes his sons follow in his footsteps of cooking barbecue.

And don't ask Barlow to change the radio station because country music is the only music to play in his restaurant.

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