Founder & Pitmaster

Jeff Stehney

Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que30+ years activeKansas City, KS

Signature:Z-Man Sandwich

Jeff Stehney opened Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que in 1996 in a converted gas station at 47th & Mission Road in Kansas City, KS — a location that has since become one of the most pilgrimaged BBQ destinations in America. Before opening Joe's, Stehney spent years competing on the BBQ circuit, where he and his wife Joy won numerous championships. The competition background shows in the precision of Joe's product: the Z-Man sandwich, the burnt ends, and the ribs are all executed with a consistency that is rare in a high-volume operation. Stehney has been credited with helping define what 'modern KC BBQ' means.

Technique

Post oak and hickory blend, 225°F for 14–16 hours on brisket. Burnt ends are double-smoked — the point is separated after the first smoke, cubed, sauced, and returned to the pit.

Recognition

Kansas City BBQ Society Grand Champion
American Royal Invitational Winner

Influences

Arthur BryantPaul KirkTexas brisket tradition

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