If you’ve ever searched for the best BBQ in Las Vegas, chances are you’ve come across the name John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill. Known for its tender brisket, smoky rib tips, and unbeatable down-home hospitality, this hidden gem in northwest Las Vegas shot to stardom after being featured on Food Network’s hit show, Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri.
But our story didn’t start in front of the cameras. It started nearly a century ago with a dream, a family, and a passion for quality meats and slow-cooked perfection. Today, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing the story behind the BBQ that has captivated locals, tourists, and food lovers across the country.
From Butcher Shop to Barbecue Legend
John Mull’s Meats began long before barbecue was trendy. Our founder, John Mull, was a carpenter by trade who moved to Southern Nevada in the late 1930s. By the early 1940s, he had transitioned into meat processing—a trade that would shape his family’s legacy. In 1954, John opened a small slaughterhouse and meat shop near Gowan Road and Decatur Boulevard, delivering fresh, high-quality meats from his Utah ranch directly to Las Vegas residents.
Back then, beef would sometimes be herded right up to the front door. The shop quickly earned a reputation for affordable cuts, specialty items like scrapple and blood sausage, and expert-level butchering that you couldn’t find at the local grocery store.
Enter the Road Kill Grill
In the early 2000s, after decades of supplying meats to caterers and restaurants across the city, John’s grandson, Chuck Frommer, had a bold idea: Why not serve up some of the same high-quality meats they sold in the market—fresh off the smoker? The result was the Road Kill Grill, a casual outdoor BBQ joint operating right outside the butcher shop for local diners.
With picnic tables, big portions, and authentic slow-cooked meats, it didn’t take long before the local diners caught on. What started as a neighborhood secret or diners quickly exploded into a Las Vegas barbecue staple, thanks to the unbeatable combination of quality meats, housemade rubs, and family recipes.
Lights, Camera, Guy Fieri
In 2012, everything changed when Guy Fieri brought his red Camaro and spiky hair to 3730 Thom Blvd. Filming for Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives gave the world a taste of what Vegas locals already knew—John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill served up some of the best BBQ west of the Mississippi.
Guy raved about the rib tips and smoked chicken, and the Road Kill Grill’s massive smoker—loaded with brisket, pulled pork, and house-made sausage—made a big impression. The episode brought in waves of hungry fans from across the country, putting us on the map for good.
We were honored to be featured again in the “Carnivore Delivery” episode in 2021 on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, proving our BBQ isn’t just a one-hit wonder—it’s a Las Vegas tradition.
The Secret Behind the Smoke
What makes our BBQ so special? It all starts with time, technique, and tradition. Chuck and the team cook most of the meat for up to 16 hours, using carefully selected cuts and seasoning blends that have been refined over generations.
Our rubs are hand-crafted in-house, using roasted and ground peppers, sea salt, sugar, and a variety of secret ingredients that bring out the best in every bite. Whether it’s our brisket, pulled pork, chicken quarters, or rib tips, every piece of meat is tumbled, smoked, and cooked with care.
You can taste the difference in every bite—this is BBQ that respects the old ways, but brings something fresh and bold to the table for diners.
It’s More Than a Meal—It’s a Las Vegas BBQ Experience
While we’ve gained national recognition, John Mull’s Meats remains deeply rooted in the community. It’s not just a restaurant—it’s a place where locals gather, where families eat under covered picnic tables, and where tourists stumble upon one of Vegas’ best-kept secrets.
We’re proud to offer more than just takeout or dine-in BBQ. Our meat market is still thriving, offering fresh beef, pork, poultry, and even exotic game meats like lamb, rabbit, and buffalo. Plus, our BBQ catering in Las Vegas has become a go-to for everything from weddings to corporate events—serving up 4,500 people at once.
The Road Ahead: Keeping the Tradition Alive
Today, the fourth generation of the Mull family is already talking about the future. Chuck’s daughter, Ashley, is next in line to carry the torch. She’s grown up around the smells of smoked meat and the hum of happy customers—and she’s ready to keep the tradition strong.
With the city growing up around us and the BBQ world getting more competitive by the day, we know the key to success is staying true to our roots: authentic smoked meats, unbeatable service, and honest prices for our loyal diners.
As Chuck says, “Everyone has a gift, and I guess this is mine.”
Visit Us and Taste the Legacy
Whether you saw us on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives or just followed the mouthwatering aroma off Thom Blvd, we invite you to stop by and taste what generations of hard work and dedication have created. From our slow-cooked BBQ to our friendly staff and family atmosphere, everything we do is about bringing diners together around great food and good times.
Location: 3730 Thom Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89130
Call Us: (702) 645-1200
Website: johnmullsmeatcompany.com
Follow Us: @johnmullsroadkillgrill on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook
Final Thoughts
What started as a humble butcher shop now stands as a culinary landmark, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern BBQ mastery. At John Mull’s Meats & Road Kill Grill, we don’t just serve food—we serve stories, smoke, and smiles.
Come visit the spot Guy Fieri couldn’t resist—and discover why we’re still the best BBQ in Las Vegas.