Mission bbq to bring first shore location to former tgi fridays

BRICK, N.J. — A long-vacant restaurant on Route 70 may soon get new life as Mission BBQ looks to open its first Jersey Shore location in Brick.

The national barbecue chain has submitted plans to the township’s Planning Board to renovate and split the former TGI Fridays building, which has been empty since May 2024. The proposal would divide the 7,537-square-foot structure into two separate spaces.

Mission BBQ specializes in classic American barbecue, offering a menu centered around slow-smoked meats and traditional sides. Customers can choose from staples like pulled pork, brisket, smoked turkey, sausage, and St. Louis-style ribs, all smoked on-site using real wood. The restaurant also features a variety of regional barbecue sauces representing styles from across the country, including Kansas City, Texas, and Carolina varieties, allowing guests to customize their flavor experience.

In addition to its meat offerings, Mission BBQ serves up traditional sides such as mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. The menu is designed to reflect a simple, hearty, and patriotic approach to American cuisine, with each dish crafted to highlight authentic barbecue traditions. Meals are served counter-style in a casual setting, with an emphasis on quality, speed, and a welcoming environment.

Mission BBQ would take over 5,302 square feet of the building, with plans for 124 seats inside. The remaining 2,235 square feet would be set aside for another restaurant, though that tenant has not yet been named.

A public hearing on the site plan was scheduled for June 30. If approved, the project would transform the longtime vacant site into a new two-tenant dining location.

Known for its patriotic atmosphere and support for veterans and first responders, Mission BBQ has expanded steadily across the country. This Brick location would be its first in the Jersey Shore area.

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