In the heart of Atlanta, a captivating tale of success, perseverance, and divine guidance unfolds, marking an astonishing 40-year journey of entrepreneurship and family legacy. At the center of this tale is Shelley “Butch” Anthony III, founder and CEO of This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q, a restaurant that has become a beacon of resilience in the industry, now celebrated through a compelling documentary, This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ. The red-carpet premiere is set to take place on June 11, 2023, hosted by the multi-talented comedian, actor, and writer Jonathan Slocumb, and will illuminate a path that transcends the ordinary.
Anthony’s story is a testament to overcoming adversity. Limited education, struggles with addiction, and the responsibilities of teen fatherhood forged a challenging path. Despite these hurdles, the push from his father, who gave him his last $1,000 and an urge to make the family proud, combined with his unwavering faith, paved the way to an entrepreneurial journey in the family business. He held fast to his spiritual compass, ultimately leading him to triumphant success and the creation of a brand that would stand as an icon of Black entrepreneurship.
The legacy of entrepreneurship in Anthony’s family started in the 1950s and has thrived ever since. The four foundational pillars that have fostered the success of This Is It! over these past four decades are faith, family, favor, and flavor. This success is particularly noteworthy considering the daunting challenge that many restaurants faced during the pandemic. Anthony feels blessed that his enterprise continued to build and expand, now boasting over ten stores.
Image commercially licensed from: https://wallstreettimes.com/monaes-wine-redefining-excellence-with-passion-and-inclusion/
This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q now enjoys widespread recognition for its delectable, authentic southern cuisine and award-winning barbeque rib tips. The company’s recent rebranding reflects an expanded and health-conscious menu that caters to a diverse clientele. With nine corporate stores and two franchises, This Is It! continues to evolve while upholding its commitment to quality and exceptional service.
The upcoming documentary premiere serves as a profound tribute to God’s goodness. Directed, written, and produced by Tammy Williams, the first Black woman to own a production studio in Georgia, the film reveals the trials and triumphs of Anthony’s life. It combines personal narrative with the history of the restaurant and highlights its current success.
The premiere night promises to be an unforgettable event with comedic talent, rich storytelling, and musical performances by Grammy® nominee Bishop William Murphy, Stellar and Presidential Lifetime Achievement award recipient Micah Stampley, and America’s Got Talent saxophonist Avery Dixon. Media personality Shari Nycole, along with comedian GRIFF and V-103’s (WVEE-FM) Larry Tinsley and Gregg Street, will host the red carpet and VIP events, ensuring a memorable evening for all attendees.
In sharing his life’s journey and his brand’s success story, Anthony hopes to inspire others. He wants the audience to understand that, through God’s grace and personal faith, achieving great things is possible. As he puts it, “The secret to our success is Jesus Christ.”
Sourced photo
As This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q commemorates 40 years of existence and Anthony stands at the pinnacle of his success, the message is clear – perseverance, faith, and commitment can turn dreams into reality, even in the face of adversity. As attendees leave the premiere of This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ, they will carry not just the taste of southern hospitality and excellent food, but also a story of an underdog’s victory that will continue to inspire generations to come.
For more information on This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q, its rich history, and the extensive menu that continues to win hearts across Atlanta, please visit the official website at https://thisisitbbq.com. The trailer for the upcoming documentary, This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ, a celebration of their triumphant journey, can also be viewed on YouTube at https://youtu.be/3zxGjVvxbyY.
