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Rodman’s BBQ is back up and running to serve the Suffolk and Western Branch area.

Rodman’s BBQ has been a family favorite of Suffolk for more than 50 years on Shoulders Hill Road. Unfortunately, due to the expansion of Shoulders Hill Road, the restaurant had to find a new location in February.

Because of the pandemic, the search for a new location went slower than expected. Luckily, in May, the restaurant started renovations at its new location at 3124 Western Branch Blvd., Chesapeake. After months of renovating and hiring kitchen staff, Rodman’s BBQ opened its doors on Oct. 21.

“Everyone kept calling and telling me that we had to get back open,” said Barry Saunders, owner of Rodman’s BBQ. “We are and it’s been great. People have come in and can’t believe how good it looks. Everyone is very excited.”

The restaurant now does mostly carryout orders with occasional catering. Folks can come and enjoy all their Rodman’s favorites such as barbecue, fried chicken, brisket, barbecued chicken and all the sides.

“We’re still doing the exact same things we did out there,” said Saunders.

Even though the food is carryout, the new location has seating for anyone who still wants to dine in. There’s no wait staff, but folks can still enjoy eating at a restaurant again.

Since reopening, the restaurant has had great support from the community, as folks are happy to have one of their favorite restaurants back.

“This whole thing couldn’t have come together without all the help and support from friends and family,” Saunders said.

The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. The store is currently closed on Sundays and might extend it to Mondays, too, to give the kitchen staff a break. Rodman’s BBQ is hiring kitchen staff. Anyone interested can call 757-484-1297.