Slows Bar BQ
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Restaurant |
| Founded | 2005 |
| Founder | Phillip Cooley |
| Headquarters | Detroit, Michigan , United States |
Key people | Brian Perrone (owner), Terry Perrone (Managing Director), Josh Keillor (Catering Director) |
| Products | Barbecue food, sandwiches, catering services |
Slows Bar BQ is a barbecue dining chain headquartered in Detroit, Michigan, owned by the Cooley family alongside chef Brian Perrone. The establishment gained national attention through its feature on Man vs. Food, where its "Yardbird" pulled chicken sandwich competed in the contest Adam Richman's Best Sandwich in America.
Description
Situated in Detroit’s Corktown Historic District directly across from Michigan Central Station, Slows Bar BQ was launched in 2005 by entrepreneur Phillip Cooley, together with his father Ron, brother Ryan, and chef Brian Perrone. In 2023, ownership shifted to founding chef Brian Perrone, Managing Director Terry Perrone, and Catering Director Josh Keillor.
As one of Detroit’s trailblazing destination eateries, Slows achieved $1.8 million in revenue during its inaugural year. The proprietors also manage Slows to Go, a service dedicated to catering and takeout orders. In 2013, the restaurant expanded into an adjoining space, increasing bar and kitchen capacity to accommodate growth.
Among its standout dishes is the "Yardbird," a pulled chicken breast sandwich marinated in mustard, topped with mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and applewood bacon, all served on a poppy-seed bun. This sandwich reached the finals of the nationwide competition Adam Richman's Best Sandwich in America, securing a top-three finish and boosting the brand’s prominence. Another favored item is the "Triple Threat Pork," a hearty sandwich combining applewood-smoked bacon, pulled pork, and grilled ham.
Slows Bar BQ’s effective management and robust local engagement have reinforced its leading position within Detroit’s dynamic culinary sector.
Reception
Actress Erin Cummings remarked that Slow's menu prioritizes indulgent flavors over nutritional considerations. Adam Richman lauded Slow's as "a truly life-changing experience," particularly highlighting the triple threat pork sandwich during his appearance on Man vs. Food. He also praised the macaroni and cheese as "transcendental," naming it among five essential American dishes on NBC's The Today Show. Justine Sterling included Slow's mac and cheese in her list of America’s top ten in Food and Wine magazine.
Raymond Sokolov of The Wall Street Journal applauded Slow's burger as "my best sandwich of the day," emphasizing its superior ingredients and craftsmanship.