Most of us can appreciate a good
success story... and a good plate of barbeque.
If you’ve ever dined at C&J’s,
you’ve experienced both. Their signature
oak-smoked flavor and friendly
service have made them a dining favorite
for years.
It’s been said from humble beginnings
come great things. C&J’s
Barbeque was originally cooked on a
trailer pit outside of Chip Manning’s
convenience store on Highway 30.
Patrons were from the immediate area,
but before long, Chip’s brisket sandwiches
were drawing people in from all
over. As Chip tells it, “It all started by
word-of-mouth. One person comes in,
they like it and tell another, before long
you’ve got a line out front.”
The recommendation to close the
convenience store and focus only on
barbeque was made by Chip’s wife Jo.
Sandwich sales had grown to $20,000
a month and the transition made good
sense. In 1997 C&J Barbeque Market
became a full time restaurant.
C&J’s reputation continued to grow and often there would be standing room only. As a result, The Mannings started scouting around for a second location. The answer came with the closing of Burton Creek BarBQ in Bryan. Chip says, “This one seemed to be designed just for us, all we needed to do was keep the customers happy.” The decision was made, and the doors of C&J’s second restaurant opened for business in 2002.
The atmosphere in C&J’s has
always had a family feel. The Mannings’
son Justin now co-manages the original
location, truly making them a family
business. Chip and Jo have always
been quick to credit their staff for their
success and their genuine care for their
employees is evident. The addition
of Justin to the management staff has
brought the family aspect full circle.
A new chapter to C&J’s success story will soon be added with the opening of a new, highly anticipated, third location at the corner of Southwest Parkway and Wellborn Road in College Station. C&J Barbeque is truly a success story in every sense, but even with their continued growth, Jo is quick to point out the key ingredient in their winning recipe. There’s an old saying:“Dance with who brung ya.” Jo echos this sentiment by stating,” Our customers have gotten us where we are today. We appreciate the support of this community so much. Thank you to everyone who voted for us!”
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