RECOMMENDED READING

  • Revamping Papa Johns Brand: Meet the Makers Marketing Strategy

    By Ava Ingram • Mar. 10, 2025

  • Revolutionizing Loyalty Programs: Maximizing Customer Engagement through Personalization

    By Adrianne Irwin • Apr. 17, 2025

  • Chipotle's Halloween Marketing Strategy: Boorito Promotion and Spirit Halloween Collaboration

    By Ava Ingram • Sep. 6, 2024

  • Driving Growth and Engagement: Applebee's Social Media Marketing Strategy Explained

    By Adrianne Irwin • Aug. 21, 2025

  • The Battle of Value Meals: How Convenience Stores are Competing with Quick-Service Restaurants

    By Adrianne Irwin • Aug. 20, 2024

  • Elevating the Cafe Experience: Panera's 'It Just Meals Good' Campaign

    By Adrianne Irwin • Apr. 11, 2025

  • Taco Bell's Breakfast Menu Strategy: A Shift Towards Lunchtime and Growth

    By Alexander Ivanov • Aug. 22, 2024

Restaurant Association Logo

Restaurant Association

Empowering restaurant professionals with free resources, training, and networking opportunities to build successful businesses.

Sign Up Free

Pages

  • Articles
  • News
  • Topics
  • Shows
  • Academy
  • Events
  • Jobs

About

  • About Us
  • Our Team
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap

Resources

  • Library
  • Templates

Connect

LinkedInInstagramTikTokYouTubeX
  • Editorial Ethics Policy
  • Review Guidelines
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2026 Restaurant Association. All rights reserved.

logo
  1. News
  2. Topics
  3. Shows
  4. Academy
  5. Events
  6. Jobs
  7. Resources

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

Log InSign Up Free
logo
LoginSign Up

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

  1. Shows
  2. Academy
  3. Events
  4. Jobs

Become a member of the Restaurant Association!

Unlock exclusive access to webinars, events, and the latest news for FREE!

Sign up
Restaurant Association Logo

Innovating Tradition: The Success Story of Sonny's BBQ

Explore how Sonny's BBQ balances tradition and innovation to drive growth and customer loyalty. Learn about their new marketing campaign, franchising efforts, and mobile ordering app.

Updated On Aug. 10, 2024 Published Aug. 10, 2024

Anastasia Ivers

Anastasia Ivers

rectangular black fire pit with fire at daytime

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1529694157872-4e0c0f3b238b?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxTb25ueSUyN3MlMjBCQlF8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTM2NHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

The Timeless Appeal of Barbecue Restaurants

Barbecue restaurants hold a unique place in the hearts of consumers, offering a nostalgic and comforting experience that taps into history and tradition. The aroma of smoky meats on the grill, the communal atmosphere of shared meals, and the hearty flavors of classic barbecue dishes create a sense of timelessness that keeps customers coming back for more. People often associate barbecue with family gatherings, celebrations, and good times, making it a cherished culinary tradition.

Balancing Tradition and Innovation

For legacy barbecue chains like Sonny's BBQ, finding the delicate balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation is crucial for long-term success. While traditional recipes and cooking methods are at the core of barbecue culture, staying relevant in a competitive market requires continuous evolution. Sonny's BBQ exemplifies this balance by preserving authentic flavors and techniques while introducing modern concepts to appeal to contemporary tastes.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523139348426-081681667818?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw0fHxTb25ueSUyN3MlMjBCQlF8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTM2NHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

Sonny's BBQ: A Legacy of Growth

Sonny's BBQ, with its roots in Florida and nearly 100 locations across the Southeast, has demonstrated steady growth and enduring popularity over more than five decades. The brand's commitment to quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction has been instrumental in its success. By expanding its footprint through franchising, Sonny's BBQ is poised to reach new markets and engage with a broader audience while staying true to its heritage.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526369495938-1be4ba6257ce?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxTb25ueSUyN3MlMjBCQlF8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTM2NHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

Innovative Marketing Strategies

The recent launch of Sonny's BBQ's new marketing campaign, “It’s Always Sonny’s Here,” reflects the brand's efforts to communicate its inviting and relaxed dining atmosphere. This campaign aims to resonate with both loyal patrons and new customers by emphasizing the warm and welcoming experience that Sonny's restaurants aim to provide. By leveraging storytelling and branding, Sonny's BBQ reinforces its identity while appealing to evolving consumer preferences.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526369495938-1be4ba6257ce?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw2fHxTb25ueSUyN3MlMjBCQlF8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTM2NHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

Embracing Technology for Customer Convenience

As part of its commitment to enhancing the dining experience, Sonny's BBQ has introduced a mobile ordering app to streamline off-premises business operations. This tech-savvy approach not only caters to the growing demand for convenience and efficiency but also allows Sonny's to connect with customers in new ways. The mobile app enables customers to place orders, customize meals, and schedule pickups, enhancing overall customer satisfaction and engagement.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1466220549276-aef9ce186540?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxTb25ueSUyN3MlMjBCQlF8ZW58MHwwfHx8MTcyMzIxOTM2NHww&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Alan Labisch on Unsplash

The Future of Sonny's BBQ

Chief brand officer Peter Frey's insights into Sonny's BBQ's innovative strategies highlight the brand's dedication to growth and excellence. By embracing digital solutions, expanding through franchising, and maintaining a strong focus on customer experience, Sonny's BBQ is well-positioned to navigate the dynamic landscape of the food industry. As Sonny's continues to evolve while preserving its heritage, its future looks promising as it continues to delight barbecue enthusiasts across the country.