LOW AND SLOW since ‘22

Being from the midwest, barbecue is simply a part of life. I, Josh, grew up going with my dad and granddad to local barbecue joints regularly. My wife and I have always dreamed of owning a business related to food - coffee shop, bakery, bed and breakfast - maybe? In July 2022, we began discussing opening our own barbecue restaurant and by August, we were buying a building. Of course, pork and chicken are staples, but the focus is brisket, beef ribs, house-made sausages, turkey, and other unique items. We want to share this style of a beloved favorite with our community here in Alabama! 

We chose to locate our restaurant in downtown Sheffield; we believe this area has a lot of potential and the city will continue to invest in its revitalization and reputation.

What sets our BBQ apart is its cooking style — a combination of central Texas style on offset smokers, mid-western love for sweetness, and traditional direct heat pits. Everything is cooked over 100% wood or coals, no electric or gas assist here. Items like brisket can take 12-14 hours to prepare!

Russell Barbecue will be a whole-family venture for us. Ashlee will be heavily involved in designing the dessert menu, including her own cookies - Perfections Confections - and testing recipes regularly.

Our daughter, Piper, continues to be the best cheerleader and is excited for a new adventure with mom and dad! You’ll probably see her around trying to hand out toys to everyone that comes by.

To us, BBQ is about community.  It’s about family, friends, and good times together. This is our hope for our restaurant in The Shoals.

Looking ahead, Russell Barbecue envisions becoming a hub for barbecue enthusiasts, a place where the love for exceptional food and the warmth of community converges. The Russell’s aspire to continually innovate, expand, and create lasting memories for guests who become part of the Russell Barbecue family.

Russell Barbecue invites you to join them on a journey where the art of barbecue becomes a shared experience, fostering a sense of community, and celebrating the joy of exceptional food.

Welcome to Russell Barbecue.