It all started in 1978. With Roy Hutchins at the helm, the barbecue legend began what is now an icon in the smokey world of meaty masterpieces. Initially originated in Princeton as “Roy’s Smokehouse,” the joint became so popular that in 1991 the restaurant moved on to bigger and better locations. They opened a new location in McKinney and along with it a new name: Hutchins BBQ.
So beloved and coveted is their barbeque, that they were just voted as the TOP BBQ in all of DFW. 60,000 votes later, Hutchins has been named The Dallas Morning News’ Reader’s Choice Best in DFW in the Best BBQ category. Only one restaurant can take that title. In September it became official: Hutchins BBQ & Grill won the 2020 Reader’s Choice for the ultimate top-notch BBQ anywhere in Dallas-Fort Worth.
“I fell in love with Texas BBQ at the age of 14 years old,” declares Roy Hutchins.
His first love would become his lifetime passion. And the love of devotees from all over Texas. Hutchins BBQ has become legendary in McKinney. But its fans extend well beyond McKinney’s boundaries! To this day, Hutchin’s consistently earns top prize in local, state and even global competitions when it comes to their magical meaty, smoky goodness.
After more than 30 years of smoke, Roy hung up his apron and brought his three boys into the highly competitive BBQ business.
Today, the meaty heaven known as Hutchins continues with the next generation with sons Tim, Tracy and Wes as at the helm.
But this is beyond just those who bear the Hutchins last name. Roy and his sons believe the entire staff is considered family. And the fact that the company is so close-knit is one of the key differentiating factors in their success.
The guy at the helm day in and day out is General Manager Wayne White. Wayne’s day begins with the team huddling in prayer and living by his simple yet powerful motto, “Love God, love people and make great BBQ.”
The road to being King of all BBQ is a challenging one.
A devastating fire in 2012 forced their doors to close for 5 painful months. Those were painful months not only for the family but also for their loyal and dedicated customers. Incredibly, as we were writing this story, another fire swept through their smokehouse late last year.
But the phoenix rises. And out of ash a new and improved Hutchins was born. The fire ignited their passion and desire to truly provide the absolute BEST BBQ anywhere. And they did just that by being named Texas Monthly ‘s Top 50 BBQ joints in the world!
Continued growth brought expansion into catering and an additional location in Frisco. Like most small businesses, Covid-19 brought necessary changes and Hutchins pivoted and adapted. New elements expanded more options and convenience for customers such as drive-through pick up and online ordering.
Walking into Hutchins is a party for all your senses. Hutchin’s immerses you in a bath exciting more than just your taste buds. The sight of the landmark building …. Your nose is struck with the intoxicating smell as you see the smoke dancing outside…enticing you inside. The sounds of the voices, the sound of the knives chopping… The ambience. Oh, and the taste! Explosions upon explosions burst onto your tongue bringing your taste buds to life!
Ahh, speaking of the menu. Some of your favorites? The brisket always is King. However, their exclusive Texas Twinkies remain a top seller. The Twinkies are brisket and jalapenos wrapped with bacon. And they are Huge! Still hungry? Consider wrapping your hands around the tasty, tantalizing meats like Prime brisket, pork ribs, and house-made sausages. Oh, and don’t forget those BBQ lover’s favorite of brisket burnt ends. But, be warned, it is said, “choosing between Hutchins smoked meats is like picking your favorite child.” Other favorites include fried catfish, smoked sausages and their juicy, mouthwatering chicken.
New honors continue rolling in. The McKinney Chamber of Commerce announced Hutchin’s as one of 2020’s Best BBQ Restaurants.
Hutchins in McKinney is a destination. Day-tripping drivers from all around the state and beyond make this smoky sensation a must-see and must-taste list of ‘have-to-visit’ destinations for dedicated devotees.
The year of 2020 ended with a bang when a fire forced their McKinney location to close for a couple of months. Of course, Frisco is still open as well catering and online ordering. The McKinney location should be back open this spring.
More than anything, the sheer sensual abandon draws the loyal and fanatical fans to the smoked meat mecca.
The family stands by their basic beliefs. “Today we fill our plates with good food and fill our hearts with love and gratitude.”
And the hungry flock with their voracious appetites and come back over and over.
They’re ravenous for the butcher paper and the authenticity of those heaping full plates mounded up high with thick slices of meat. That crisp bark outside, the gleaming fat inside, the picture-perfect smoke ring – all begging to be eaten with your fingers. It’s a scandalous, over-the-top indulgence, and boy, do we love it.
McKinney, Texas
1301 N Tennessee St,
McKinney, TX 75069
Frisco, Texas
9225 Preston Rd
Frisco, TX 75033
Ph: (972) 377-2046
Catering
Ph: (972) 540-1920
The smoke swirls and dances in the air and draws you in to this legendary McKinney hot spot. Decades upon decades of dedicated devotees flock to this smoked meat mecca. Texas barbecue is more than a meal at Hutchins BBQ, it’s a lifestyle.
