Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Kinsey.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Amanda. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
My love for BBQ started when I was about six years old. My grandma loved to cook BBQ. She would use a pot or even dig a hole in the ground to smoke or grill our dinner throughout the week. Her landlord would fuss at her all the time about messing up the yard. Her reply was always “I dont care; I’m full” (lol). As I got older, I began to BBq for my family and friends. I would smoke or grill meats for free. Everyone always raved about how good it was but, I didn’t pay it any attention. I really enjoyed cooking! But, my company really kicked into high gear when I need money to send my son to China. I was an early education teacher for 17 years. Although, I Loved teaching; my salary sucked! My son was offered a lifetime opportunity to visit China because he speaks Mandarin Chinese. The trip was expensive. And I was determined to get him there! So, I was praying and crying one night. I asked God “how in the world can I send my baby on this trip?” It was 3 am in the morning and I rolled over on my remote and they were selling a grill on QVC network. And, just like that God was telling me to cook. I thought I was losing my mind first but HE kept speaking to me. I began to see grill everywhere I went (lol)! So, I borrowed my mom’s rusty grill and begin to hit all the street corners in the hood. People brought sandwiches from me for $ 5.00. Then, I was harassed by business owners to move off their property. And I did. I changed my location and went to Moreland Ave and Glenwood. This is a new upcoming area that’s a hot spot in Atlanta. I took to that corner and started selling ribs again. In this area, some of the patrons thought someone had died (lol). But, when they found out that I was grilling to send my son to China people begin to give me $20 for sandwiches and plus the really raved about my food. Sometimes, I would get to the corner at 7 am and people would be waiting for me. I would sell out in hours. And, with the community help my son made it to China. I thought I was done selling food but that was the beginning!
Has it been a smooth road?
Being an Entrepreneur is really hard. On top of that being a female Pitmaster is even harder. This is a Male dominated field mostly. But we got a few women that can kick ass on the grill too! Also, it’s an over-saturated field but everyone is bringing their “A game” to this cuisine. I am always trying to find ways to stand out and reinvent myself for new customers and to retain old customers. I’m a full-time mom and wife with five children and I try not to express the frustration of running a business. But, it spills over to my personal life sometimes -I’m human. But, it’s also rewarding! I have met some of the best people in the culinary field and so many opportunities have been bestowed upon me. I am truly grateful for it all! All the tests that are I have been through has strengthened me!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Amanda’s Barbeeque and Catering Services story. Tell us more about the business.
Amanda’s Barbeeque is the next big BBQ restaurant owned by a Black female Pitmaster. We specialize in delicious “BarBeeQue” and delicious southern sides. But, I have to say that we are known for our Ribs, Chicken and Mac and Cheese! Those are our most popular dishes. I am most proud that I am living the dreams of my Grandmothers’ from past generations. I’ve come from a long line of Chefs (to me). My grandmother cooked for Caucasian families and made what most considered slop into food. I’m happy to see people enjoy my food and be happy and full after each meal. I think that’s what set me apart is that I’m not trying to be like anyone. When I’m grilling somehow, I feel empowered when I cut my own wood and shift around my fires. Barbecue is therapeutic to me.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
BBQ ain’t going nowhere! The newest trend is vegan and vegetarian. People are eating healthier. I can agree with them . On our menu, all of our sides are vegetarian-friendly. We do offer Vegan choices that aren’t processed. Amanda’s Barbeeque has also added a variety of Fresh Seafood to our menu. BBQ will be around until the lights on Earth runs out (lol). No one will refuse grilled foods ever. But, whatever the people demand Amanda’s Barbeeque will shift to accommodate as long as it doesn’t change what we hold true too.
Pricing:
- Starting at $7.99 breakfast
- Starting at $12.99 for lunch and dinner
Contact Info:
- Website: www.amandasbarbeeque.com
- Phone: 4044313479
- Email: Info@amandasbarbeeque.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/amandasbarbeeque
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandasbarbeeque
- Yelp: Amanda’s Barbeeque and Catering Services
Image Credit:
The photographers of Slingin wing festival
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