March 27, 2017

Meet Ron Donley of Sonny’s BBQ in Atlanta

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ron Donley.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
For me, it was an easy decision to become part of the Sonny’s BBQ family nearly 11 years ago. Our team continues to emphasize great service and great BBQ – plus, BBQ has always been my favorite food! If you spend time with our team, you quickly see their passion for great BBQ and great atmosphere, and we strive to provide this winning formula to our guests every day.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Difficult times in our story include working to survive the recession from 2008 – 2010 and now working to update our restaurants to ensure we resonate with all of our guests today. Each of these offered their own unique challenges, but we’ve been excited to continue to receive positive responses from loyal and new guests alike.

Sonny’s BBQ – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
At Sonny’s BBQ, it has always been about Southern Hospitality, having fun and making sure that when people come in for our signature BBQ, they feel right at home. We are passionate about constantly perfecting the craft of BBQ, as evidenced by being named the best BBQ chain in the U.S. by The Daily Meal two years in a row.

Such high-quality barbecue isn’t a coincidence. Beyond a typical training program any restaurant may require of their team members, our commitment to BBQ skill is realized through our Pitmaster Program: an application-based certification initiative that provides superior BBQ knowledge and expertise. Our Pitmaster Program requires completion of a rigorous curriculum and knowledge-based tests including everything from the history of BBQ to cuts of meat and cooking techniques. It is designed for those truly passionate about spreading the spirit of BBQ, as completing the program is no easy task. I am proud to say our Atlanta restaurants tout four Certified Pitmasters who have completed this program and have participated in a variety of BBQ competitions across the southern states.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Future Plans: What are your plans for the future? What are you looking forward to or planning for – any big changes?

We know our guests have a choice every day of where they eat, so consistent, high-quality food and hospitality is what will keep us top-of-mind. We are currently in the process of remodeling each of our Sonny’s BBQ restaurants in the Atlanta market to help enhance our guests’ experience in the future. But while the restaurants will look new to guests, what won’t be new is our commitment to authentic, Southern-style BBQ we love to serve every day. This allows us to stay true to our core values and beliefs, while also maintaining relevance with an ever-changing community.

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