From The Victor Post, July 8, 2016
“The restaurant is really a city success story in that I had been in business with Chester Cab Pizza for 21 years already before I attempted Sticky Lips BBQ,” said Howard Nielsen, owner. “I knew the area well and felt comfortable in pushing two blocks outside the already successful neighborhood of the arts. I was the first restaurant to push that boundary, and I remember people telling me I was nuts.”
The restaurant opened April 21, 2004. Twelve years later, he purchased the two-acre corner lot and building, which is currently undergoing extensive renovations and will be rebranded as Photo City Junction.
“I just spent my life savings, please eat my food,” Nielsen said. “It’s in the DNA of an entrepreneur to have the confidence and hopefully the know-how to make your investment and idea into a business that can do some good for the world. When I had the idea of starting a barbecue business and was looking for space to rent, I had no idea all the good this location would offer.”
One of the things Nielsen is most proud of is being able to provide jobs for 180 full- and part-time employees.
“I like working with young people and I have a very diverse group of employees,” Nielson said. “I have a great relationship with the Bowman and Leighton Avenue neighborhood, next to where the restaurant is located. I try to be a good example of a leader and business owner.”
Over the last twelve years, Sticky Lips BBQ has perfected the art of smoking meats. The restaurant offers an extensive menu of items all made from scratch.
“We have the best staff, procedures and menu that Sticky Lips BBQ has ever had. With the addition of executive chef, Earl Young, we have made great strides in our kitchen,” Nielsen said. “The original smokehouse at Culver Road has just undergone an extensive makeover that will help streamline high volume production that comes with the increase in barbecue fundraisers, catering and restaurant business.”
“We’re making the best and freshest barbecue in our 12-year history,” he said.