What Happened to JJ’s Meat Shak?
By Henry Audette
I’m sure that by now, everyone has heard that our beloved small-town BBQ restaurant has sadly shut down. If you’re new to the school or have just been living under a rock, JJ’s Meat Shak has been the staple restaurant of Buena Vista since its opening in 2011. However, as of recently, it has been shut down and has become 501 Roadhouse. So why did JJ’s close its doors? Is 501 going to be able to replace the beloved restaurant it once was?
While talking to the former manager of JJ’s Meat Shak, who is now the manager of 501 Roadhouse, Jessica Ferguson, I was able to gain some insight on the closing of JJs and learned about what 501 is and what it plans to be.
The former owners of JJ’s Meat Shak were a family named the Hamiltons. They are the owners of multiple small businesses around town, such as Fit Time Fitness. The main reason the Hamiltons decided to sell the restaurant property was “based on having more free time to enjoy themselves.” However, while the family is enjoying some well-deserved downtime, JJ’s is still an active catering business. So what exactly is 501 and what changes have been made?
501 is still a family-owned business. The Rowsey’s are a family originally from BV who have come back into town with the hopes of investing in their home community.
The new restaurant is now more of a small-town American bar scene with a very upbeat atmosphere. There are now multiple events that happen each week such as live music, cornhole tournaments, karaoke, and multiple tvs for sporting events. There are also pool tables, dart boards, and TVs outside for extra entertainment.
While 501 is more of a bar scene than JJ’s was, it still aims to be a family-friendly environment for everyone to come and enjoy.
Now for the big question that everyone is wondering. How’s the food?
501 kept a menu that was very similar to that of JJ’s Meat Shak. So if you still want to get the famous “Hog Pen” or pulled pork platter, you’re in luck. They have made some further additions with multiple daily specials such as surf and turf on the weekends, all-you-can-eat seafood, pizza, and 11 am-2 pm lunch specials.
The lively new restaurant has been extremely busy and popular since its grand opening. Manager Jessica Ferguson admits that the staff is “still trying to learn how everything needs to be done in order for things to run smoothly and there are times when things get stressful.” Many changes will still be made including renovating the building next door and making it a full bar.
All in all, 501 has done a great job bringing a fun environment to our small-town community. They have a vibrant and lively vibe that all can come and enjoy.
The Rowsey’s and their staff at 501 Roadhouse would love to welcome all SVU students to try it out, eat some good food, and have a good time!
