Despite several thefts that nearly shut down the restaurant, JC’s Family BBQ has kept its doors open thanks to an outpouring of community support.
“We’re still hanging on by our fingernails,” said Jim Johnson, who opened the establishment with his wife, Jean, four years ago. “But we’re hanging in there.”
Following three burglaries in three months late last year, the Highway 58-area restaurant initially announced a possible closing before Christmas. Now, just past Valentine’s Day, the family-run business is slowly bouncing back and recovering from the loss of the stolen money and equipment.
Johnson has taken a job with the city of Chattanooga to help supplement income, while his wife runs the restaurant.
More Info
JC’s Family BBQ is open for lunch and dinner until 8:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, until 9 p.m. Friday-Saturday and until 8 p.m. Sunday. For more information on the business, located at 9070 Highway 58 in Harrison, call 485-3481.
The goal, he said, is to find enough financial security that closing isn’t inevitable. And with the continued community support, the family believes it is possible.
“When we first talked about closing, we had people coming in to ask us not to,” said Johnson. “We’re just doing what we can. Our kids have grown up with these people. They aren’t just our customers, they’re our neighbors and friends. We don’t want to shut down.”
Fortunately, he said, no further burglaries have occurred. However, he’s quick to add, it could easily be because there isn’t much of anything left to take.
So until further notice, JC’s will continue to serve up its Southern comfort specialties ranging from weekend rib-eye steaks to all you can eat catfish specials.
“We’re here,” said Johnson. “Everyone’s welcome.”
JC’s Family BBQ struggled to remain open following three burglaries last year, but things are looking up for the business.
JC’s Family BBQ features a variety of seafood and other Southern comforts.