When people think about authentic Southern BBQ, Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q often comes to mind. With its signature slow-smoked meats, scratch-made sides, and legendary cheese biscuits, Jim N Nick’s has become a household name across the Southeastern United States.
But one question food lovers and history buffs often ask is: “Where did Jim N Nick’s start?”
In this guide, you’ll learn the origins of Jim N Nick’s, its founders, early success, expansion story, and how it grew into a community-driven BBQ brand. Along the way, we’ll include menu highlights, calorie and nutrition tables, allergen details, and FAQs—so this post becomes the most complete resource available online.
Where Did Jim N Nick’s Start?
Jim N Nick’s started in Birmingham, Alabama in 1985. It was founded byfather and son duo, Jim and Nick Pihakis, who wanted to serve authentic Southern BBQ in a family-friendly, community-focused setting.
The first restaurant opened in an old pizza shop in Birmingham’s Southside neighborhood. What began as a small local BBQ joint soon became one of the most beloved regional chains in the Southeast.
Jim & Nick Pihakis
Jim Pihakis – A businessman with a love for food and hospitality.
Nick Pihakis – His son, who carried forward the BBQ vision and oversaw expansion.
Their vision wasn’t just about great BBQ—it was about community, family, and scratch-made food. That philosophy still drives the brand today.
The First Location in Birmingham, Alabama
Opened in 1985 on Birmingham’s Southside.
Started small, with a modest kitchen and dining room.
Menu focused on pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and homemade sides.
The Birmingham community embraced Jim N Nick’s, helping it grow through word of mouth and a reputation for quality.
Expansion Beyond Birmingham
By the 1990s, Jim N Nick’s opened additional locations across Alabama. Soon after, they expanded into Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and eventually Colorado.
Today, Jim N Nick’s operates around 40–45 locations (2025), but it still proudly highlights its Birmingham roots.
What Made Jim N Nick’s Different?
Scratch-Made Food – Everything from biscuits to sides is made in-house.
Authentic BBQ Techniques – Slow-smoking meats for hours.
Community Focus – Supporting local schools, charities, and events.
Consistency – Quality remains the same across all locations.
This unique approach helped Jim N Nick’s stand out from national chains.
Key Takeaways
Jim N Nick’s started in Birmingham, Alabama in 1985.
Founded by Jim and Nick Pihakis.
Built on community, scratch-made food, and BBQ traditions.
Expanded to 40–45 locations across the Southeast.
Still proudly emphasizes its Alabama roots.
FAQ – Where Did Jim N Nick’s Start?
Here are 15+ common questions and answers:
1. Where did Jim N Nick’s BBQ first open?
In Birmingham, Alabama in 1985.
2. Who founded Jim N Nick’s?
Father-son duo Jim and Nick Pihakis.
3. Why is it called Jim N Nick’s?
It’s named after the founders: Jim and Nick.
4. What was the first location like?
A small restaurant in an old pizza shop on Birmingham’s Southside.
5. What was on the original menu?
Pulled pork, ribs, brisket, BBQ chicken, and homemade sides.
Yes, with slow-smoked meats and scratch-made sides.
Final Thoughts
So, where did Jim N Nick’s start? The answer is simple yet powerful: Birmingham, Alabama in 1985, with a small BBQ restaurant run by Jim and Nick Pihakis.
What began as a local BBQ spot has grown into a community-centered chain with 40+ locations, yet it still maintains its authentic Southern roots and commitment to scratch-made food.
Whether you’re enjoying their brisket in Atlanta, pulled pork in Nashville, or ribs in Denver, every Jim N Nick’s location carries the spirit of that very first Birmingham shop.
