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The Full Story Behind The Name

About Mary "Honey Bay" Brown-Johnson

In 1920 a culinary legend was born in Coatopa, AL named, Mary "Honey Bay" Brown-Johnson.  A town matron known for her southern cooking.  Known to feed locals and those traveling from afar during her famous soul food Sunday dinner's.   Honey Bay was a mother to twelve children who migrated to Waukegan, Illinois in the 1970's. Honey Bay taught her children the art of cooking emanating through love. In 2004, the Johnson family opened a restaurant in the heart of Waukegan, Ill. "Honey Bay's Country Kitchen."  In 2016, BBQ Johnson, grandson, opened up "Honey Bay's BBQ," in Waukegan, Illinois. Due to growth, Honey Bay's BBQ moved to a larger location in Beach Park, Illinois.  The culinary richness in our family bloodline stemming from Mary "Honey Bay" Brown-Johnson allows us to continue to cater and serve communities at large. We appreciate your support throughout the years and years to come! 

Meat the President & Executive Chef:
BBQ Johnson

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Meat BBQ Johnson's mama, the woman behind the amazing southern sweets: 
Mama Lu

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Meat BBQ Johnson's fiancé,
Cookie!
The smiling face you see when you walk through our door! 

© 2023 by BBQ Johnson Entertainment & Rentals

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