News Summary
Jenkins Quality Barbecue, a historic dining spot in Jacksonville, will close its doors on September 30, 2025. Struggling against food and labor costs, changing consumer tastes, and supply chain issues, the iconic restaurant has been a cherished part of the community for almost seventy years. Recognized as one of the best barbecue joints in Florida, the closure marks a significant loss for locals who consider it a culinary landmark. The Jenkins family will also cease online sales of their sauces, urging customers to use gift cards before the closure date.
Jacksonville – Jenkins Quality Barbecue, a beloved dining establishment in Jacksonville known for its smoked chicken, ribs, and signature hot mustard sauce, will close all three of its locations on September 30, 2025. This decision follows a challenging landscape attributed to rising costs of food and labor, evolving consumer preferences, and ongoing supply chain disruptions.
Founded in 1957 by Melton Jenkins Jr. and his wife, Willie Mae, Jenkins Quality Barbecue has served the Jacksonville community for nearly seventy years. The restaurant has gained recognition as one of the oldest Black family-owned restaurants in the area, making it a historic and cherished institution.
In addition to its local fame, Jenkins Quality Barbecue was recently honored by the Food Network as the best barbecue joint in Florida in 2023, further solidifying its reputation among barbecue aficionados. The eatery’s closure comes as a significant loss to patrons who view it as more than just a restaurant; it has become a key part of the community and a longstanding tradition for many.
Alongside the closure of its brick-and-mortar locations, the Jenkins family will also shut down their barbecue sauce online shop, with final orders for pint-sized bottles being accepted until the end of the day on September 21, 2025. Additionally, customers holding gift cards are encouraged to utilize them before the impending closure date.
Expressing appreciation to its loyal customers, the restaurant shared sentiments of gratitude on social media, reflecting on their years of service. This heartfelt message resonated with many, illustrating the deep connections forged between Jenkins and its patrons throughout the years.
The news of Jenkins’ closure has left many food enthusiasts and former Jacksonville residents saddened. Dr. Seth Crapp, a former local, voiced his disbelief and disappointment regarding the situation, underlining the institution’s historical significance within the community and beyond.
Jenkins Quality Barbecue will remain in operation until the end of September 2025, allowing customers to enjoy their favorites one last time while also promoting the use of gift cards and final sauce orders. This closure marks the end of an era and the loss of a culinary legacy that has been woven into the fabric of Jacksonville’s dining scene for decades.
In summary, the impending closure of Jenkins Quality Barbecue signifies more than the end of a restaurant; it represents a shift in the local culinary landscape and the impact of external economic pressures on family-owned businesses. The Jenkins family’s long-standing commitment to quality and tradition will be missed, as will the sense of community that they fostered through their establishment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- News4Jax
- First Coast News
- Jacksonville Free Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Jenkins Quality Barbecue
- Google Search: Jenkins Quality Barbecue
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
