John's Shamrock BBQ

John's Shamrock BBQ Description

The best smoked meats, grilled steaks & salmon, homemade sides & homemade desserts! Home of the Gin Bucket!
Welcome! My mom and dad opened on May 11, 2010, with the intentions offering southern barbecue to eastern Iowa. Why? John Blakeney was a mailman in Washington for 32 years before finally deciding to retire in 2009. After working all his life, he knew he couldn't just sit around and watch the world go by. My dad decided to follow his life dream of starting a restaurant. He has always loved barbecue and had the will to make the best ribs ever. So he bought a smoker on wheels and a bright yellow concession trailer to serve people on the square in downtown Washington. Shelley, my mom, was all for this idea and wanted to work together. With the support of their children, Aaron(me!) & Kyle, plus wood provided by Uncle Jim, Dad's brother, John's BBQ was established and located in Washington during 2009. When winter finally came, John had some decisions to make about his business. It would be impossible to sell food downtown during the snowy Iowa winter. Because of a huge support from the community, John's BBQ needed a new location starting in 2010. Mom & Dad went back and forth on what to do. They had a food trailer, great food, enormous support, but now where to sell it! Then on March 1, 2010, John decide to take a chance and purchase the Shamrock Inn which had been empty for 14 months. This truly is what you would call a family business..Dad is the pitmaster, Mom does the homemade cooking, Kyle was the cook the first summer and I work as the bartender when I can. Uncle Rick & Uncle Jim take care of the building and can entertain you with family stories. All you have to do is ask! We sincerely hope you enjoy your meal and will visit us again soon! 'We have the besssst customers!' written by Aaron