KC Barbecue Restaurant with 87-Year Legacy to Close by End of May

Closure of Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ

Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ is set to close its doors at 2900 Southwest Blvd at the end of May, as confirmed by the restaurant’s owners. This news marks the end of a significant chapter for a beloved establishment known for its authentic Kansas City barbecue.

However, the closure does not necessarily mean that popular menu items like the Big D, which features a brisket sandwich on rye with Swiss cheese and onion rings, will disappear entirely. The owners have expressed their intention to continue serving their signature dishes by cooking from home and potentially operating out of a food truck while exploring options for a new physical location.

Transition Plans

Joel Bremer, who co-owns the restaurant with his wife, Susan, shared their plans post-closure. “We’re going to cook from home for a while and maybe sell out of a food truck,” he said. “We’re also considering the possibility of opening another brick-and-mortar location in the future. But we must vacate this space by the end of the month.” Their dedication to the brand suggests that their loyal customers will still have access to their favored barbecue, even after the restaurant’s closure.

Ownership and Building History

The business, which has become a staple in the Kansas City community, was purchased by Bremer from original owner Danny Edwards in 2018. Edwards had successfully run the restaurant until his passing, as it was originally established by his father Jake “Big Jake” Edwards in 1938. Joel Bremer mentioned that while he owns the restaurant, the building itself belongs to Priscilla Edwards, Danny’s widow, who is reportedly looking to sell the property to a neighboring marijuana dispensary, From the Earth.

In a recent conversation, Priscilla Edwards chose not to comment on the sale of the building, and representatives from From the Earth have not responded to inquiries regarding their intentions for the property.

Historical Significance

Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ carries a rich history within its walls. It was originally founded downtown when Jake “Big Jake” Edwards opened his first establishment, the Old Southern Pit, near 10th Street and Baltimore Avenue. Under his guidance, the restaurant expanded rapidly, reaching five locations by 1960. In 1980, his son Danny took over the original restaurant and named it Lil’ Jake’s, sealing the family’s legacy in the barbecue realm.

In 1984, Danny moved the restaurant to a new location at 12th and Grand following plans by the city to dismantle his previous spot for a parking garage. The rebranded Lil’ Jake’s Eat It An’ Beat It became a local favorite, known for its limited seating of just 18 patrons, drawing in downtown professionals seeking a genuine Kansas City barbecue experience.

Challenges and Evolution

The establishment’s new location was situated just a block north of what is now the T-Mobile Center. As development surged in the early 2000s, Danny Edwards faced pressure from the developers pursuing his property for parking space related to the Power and Light District project. After some resistance from Edwards and other small business owners, he ultimately agreed to relocate, demonstrating both his commitment to his business and the evolving landscape of the city.

The Future of Danny Edwards’ Legacy

After relocating to its present site in 2007, Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ thrived under the leadership of Bremer. Having worked at the establishment for 15 years prior to purchasing it, he carries forward the techniques and recipes passed down from Danny Edwards himself. Bremer noted that it was a lengthy tenure that earned him the trust necessary for the acquisition. “Danny knew I’d keep doing things the way he taught me,” Bremer reflected.

Though the potential sale of the building could lead to new developments, the irony of a marijuana dispensary taking over the site of a historic barbecue restaurant weighs heavy on Bremer’s mind. He expressed concerns about the future, stating, “If they want to bulldoze this place for a parking lot, given our history, I’m not sure I’d want to risk opening another place.” The passion for preserving culinary traditions runs deep in this community, and the fate of Danny Edwards Blvd BBQ remains an ongoing story of resilience and adaptation.