Jim Neely learned early that the best paycheck is one he wrote to himself
Jim Neely’s first barbecue restaurant in Memphis was Jim Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Que, on South Third. In 1978, he bought a small grocery store and there was space to add on. “I figured I’d sell barbecue, so I built a pit,” he said. (Patrick Lantrip/Daily Memphian)
Jim Neely is 83, the last of his generation of local barbecue legends. He never really intended to be in the restaurant business, but he succeeds in whatever he does.
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Jim Neely Interstate Bar-B-Q Jim Neely's Interstate Bar-B-Q Down Home with the Neelys Barbara Neely Subscriber Only2025 is almost over. Now is the time to support your trusted local news source.
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Jennifer Biggs
Jennifer Biggs is a native Memphian and veteran food writer and journalist who covers all things food, dining and spirits related for The Daily Memphian.
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