The Story of Joshy's BBQ!

Posted: 06/11/2024

Today, I thought I would tell my story on the dawning of Joshy’s BBQ. It really started during COVID, a time when the world went mad. There’s a joke: when a man turns 30, he needs to decide whether he’s going to brew beer or smoke meat…obviously, I chose the latter. Maybe a few years early.

I stumbled into something that quickly became both a passion and a way of life: American BBQ. It began simply, with a Jumbuck kettle smoker from Bunnings for the grand price of $48 and a pack of ribs. My god, the effort. So much research on the right techniques for charcoal, the type of wood, and the temperature. The result? Incredible. I was hooked.

Sometimes it’s better to run before you can walk. The ultimate test is the brisket. After even more blood, sweat, and tears, I couldn’t believe what I was tasting. After sharing some brews and brisket with my closest friends, they knew I was on to something. With each demanding cook, I refined and enhanced my techniques, recipes, and rubs.

Drawing inspiration from the wood-firey redhead, an iconic legend of Hobart, I knew Tasmania was due for even more quality BBQ. Soon, I talked with my boss at Food for Dudes to let me sell my take on Texas BBQ. He said, “It’s too expensive, and no one will pay—but we can give it a go.” Did I prove him wrong! The customers couldn’t get enough.

Today, Joshy’s BBQ is about bringing real BBQ to Launceston and beyond. From food festivals to our permanent spots at World Street Eats and now the Harvest Market, we’re sharing our BBQ with everyone we can reach. We’re about the experience as much as the food—the joy of a hearty, smoky meal made from the best Tasmania has to offer, crafted with the same passion that started this journey.

Every platter we serve, every event we join, is a testament to that first smoky rib and a dream fuelled by countless hours at the smoker. At Joshy’s BBQ, our mission is simple: deliver authentic, mouthwatering BBQ that brings people together.