Roasted ribs, smoked brisket, pork chops and juicy burgers will be the protagonists of the new museum. Next year, the world’s first museum dedicated to barbecue aiming to explore all aspects of the beloved barbecue culture.
“With one visit to the museum, you will have a comprehensive view of barbecue. And after your tour of the museum is over, you’ll have visited two barbecue restaurants and you’ll definitely be ready to debate which is the best,” Museum of BBQ founder Jonathan Bender told CNN Travel.
The world’s first barbecue museum
The Museum of Barbecue, which will open in Kansas City, Missouri, will undoubtedly start major regional barbecue rivalries mainly because of its location. Some will certainly argue that such an establishment dedicated to perfectly prepared meat might be better suited to Texas, North or South Carolina, or Memphis, Tennessee.
The barbecue museum’s interactive exhibits will cover different areas and styles of barbecue, while visitors will enjoy a basic education on the elements of barbecue: meat, spices, wood, fire, smoke and sauce. And of course, the gift shop will have sauces and other BBQ-related items to stock up on.
The museum will open its doors on spring 2025 and will occupy 4,223 square meters of space in the Crown Center mall in Kansas City.
Jonathan Bender, the museum’s founder, has been a barbecue writer for over 15 years, has served as a judge for the KC American Royal World Series of Barbecue, and created the documentary Burnt Legend about burnt ends (the burnt ends of meat).
“Barbecue is about meeting and sharing with people,” says Bender. It’s not just about the food. It’s a culture. Butchers and bakers are the best storytellers I’ve ever met.”
Visitors will not be left with just the appetite. The Burnt End BBQ restaurant will be located on the first floor of the Crown Center.
Kansas City is home to more than 100 local barbecue restaurants and many competitions, including the World Series of Barbecue, which begins in late October.
