What Billy Sims Barbecue serves and where to find it

Billy Sims Barbecue is a regional barbecue chain based in Oklahoma that operates locations across the south-central United States. The restaurant specializes in smoked meats — primarily brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken — cooked in-house using traditional barbecue methods. Most locations offer dine-in seating, takeout, and catering services.

The chain was founded by Billy Sims, a former NFL running back, and has grown to multiple locations primarily in Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas. Each location operates independently in some respects, so menu items, hours, and pricing can vary between restaurants. You can find the nearest Billy Sims location and confirm their current hours by visiting their website or calling ahead, as hours and services change seasonally.

Key Takeaways

  • Billy Sims Barbecue serves smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken as its core menu items, with sides like beans, coleslaw, and cornbread.
  • The chain operates multiple locations across Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas, with some variation in menu and pricing between restaurants.
  • Most locations offer dine-in, takeout, and catering, though you should confirm availability at your specific restaurant before visiting.
  • Pricing for smoked meats typically ranges based on portion size and meat type, with combo meals bundling meat, sides, and bread together.

The core menu: smoked meats and traditional sides

The main offerings at Billy Sims are individual smoked meats sold by the pound or as plated portions. Brisket is the signature item — slow-smoked beef brisket served with a bark (the seasoned outer layer) and tender interior. Pulled pork, beef ribs, and smoked chicken round out the protein selection. Most locations also offer sausage links and sometimes burnt ends (the caramelized corner pieces of brisket).

Sides follow traditional barbecue format: baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, and cornbread or rolls. You can order meats individually or as combo plates that bundle a meat choice with two sides and bread. Some locations offer sandwiches — smoked meat on a bun with sauce on the side — as an alternative to plated portions.

Sauce is typically served on the side rather than applied to the meat, allowing you to control how much you use. The sauce varies slightly by location but is generally a tomato-based barbecue sauce. Iced tea, soft drinks, and sometimes beer are available depending on the location.

Pricing structure and portion sizes

Billy Sims prices smoked meats by the pound or as fixed portions. A half-pound of brisket or pulled pork costs less than a full pound, and prices increase with meat type — brisket and ribs typically cost more per pound than pulled pork or chicken. Combo plates bundle a meat choice with sides and bread at a set price, which is often more economical than ordering items separately.

Exact pricing varies between locations and changes over time, so you should check the menu at your specific restaurant before ordering. Some locations publish menus online; others require a phone call. Catering orders are priced separately and usually require advance notice, with pricing based on headcount and meat selection.

Dine-in, takeout, and catering options

Most Billy Sims locations have a dining room with table seating, though the size and comfort level vary. Takeout is available at all locations — you can order ahead by phone or in person and pick up your food. Some locations may offer online ordering through their website or third-party delivery apps, though availability depends on the individual restaurant.

Catering is a significant part of Billy Sims' business. The chain handles events ranging from small office lunches to large family gatherings. Catering orders typically require at least 24 hours' notice and may have minimum order amounts. Contact your nearest location directly to discuss catering options, pricing, and available dates.

Regional variation between locations

Because Billy Sims operates as a chain with some franchising, menu items and pricing are not identical across all restaurants. One location may offer a specific sandwich or side that another does not. Hours of operation, catering availability, and even sauce recipes can differ slightly between restaurants.

Before making a trip or placing a large order, confirm details with the specific location you plan to visit. A phone call takes five minutes and prevents disappointment if a particular item is unavailable or the restaurant is closed for a private event. Most locations are happy to answer questions about their current menu and services.

What to order if you are new to Billy Sims

If you are visiting for the first time, start with the brisket — it is the signature item and represents the restaurant's core strength. Order a half-pound or a full portion depending on your appetite, and ask for sauce on the side so you can taste the meat first. Pair it with baked beans and cornbread, which are standard sides that complement smoked brisket well.

If you prefer poultry, the smoked chicken is a lighter option that still carries smoke flavor. Pulled pork is milder and works well for those who find brisket too rich. Ribs are meatier and require more eating time, so order them if you plan to sit and enjoy your meal rather than eat quickly.

Avoid ordering multiple different meats on your first visit unless you are sharing with others — barbecue portions are substantial, and you will learn what you prefer by trying one thing thoroughly. Return visits let you explore other items once you know the baseline quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Billy Sims take reservations for large groups?

Most Billy Sims locations do not take reservations for dine-in seating. For large groups, catering is the better option because it guarantees food availability and allows you to customize the order. Call your location to discuss group catering and minimum order requirements.

Can I order Billy Sims barbecue for delivery?

Delivery depends on your location. Some restaurants partner with third-party delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats, while others offer only takeout. Check the restaurant's website or call directly to see if delivery is available in your area.

What is the difference between the brisket and pulled pork?

Brisket is a tougher cut that becomes tender through long smoking and has a distinct smoke ring and bark. Pulled pork comes from the shoulder, is naturally more tender, and has a milder smoke flavor. Brisket is richer; pulled pork is leaner and easier to eat quickly.

Does Billy Sims offer vegetarian or non-meat options?

Billy Sims is a barbecue restaurant focused on smoked meats, so vegetarian entrées are not standard. Sides like beans, coleslaw, and cornbread are available and can be ordered together, but confirm with your location whether they can accommodate a fully vegetarian meal.

How far in advance do I need to order catering?

Most locations request at least 24 hours' notice for catering orders, though larger events may need more time. Contact your nearest Billy Sims directly with your event date and headcount to confirm availability and discuss pricing.