This here is South Pasadena's historic Gus's Barbecue anew. Now owned by the brothers Bicos, Chris and John who also own The Original Tops in Pasadena, the space was completely gutted, renovated, refreshed. The old red booths are gone, but there are now plasma TVs, black-and-white photos on the walls, a Southern barbecue-meets-California vibe. More importantly, the menu was also revamped and updated with lots of salads, burgers and barbecue that many say is actually edible now. If the Bicos can get permitting, expect parking lot barbecue weekend parties sometime soon. Early, early reports here, and further reading here and here.
Looks like the final touches are being put on at Gus's Barbecue in South Pasadena. The classic sign was removed for a little touch up and craned back in late last week, the renovations are near complete, and all-things are just about go. We hear friends and family will probably begin this weekend, with a soft open early next week---our money's on Monday or Tuesday.
· Plywood Update: Gus's Barbecue Almost Smokin' [~ELA~]
For fans of Downtown 'cue, a sad, sad day indeed: The original Original Texas Barbecue King, affectionately known as BBQ King, has gone to the great kettle smoker in the sky. Since 1994, the corner of Figueroa and Caesar Chavez was anchored by the flat white building with flags and "BBQ King Loves America" painted on the side, surrounded by billowing smoke. But for the last couple of years, a sign for the Orsini III, another Tuscan-themed rental property like the one across the street, spoke of impending doom. Here's how it was supposed to shake down: When construction started on the new apartments, the King would move to a storefront in the other Orsini property. It didn't sound amicable, and there's rumor of a lawsuit and the developer pulling out of the deal. And today, rubble. According to one of the BBQ King owners, "there were problems." With the developers, we asked? "No doubt."
SOUTH PASADENA: Last year, Chris and John Bicos, brothers who own The Original Tops in Pasadena, took over the historic Gus's Barbecue on Fair Oaks to renovate and revamp the menu. In addition to the smooth transition from Bar-B-Q to Barbecue, most the beloved red booths are gone (some were kept in front), but look, a cool new tin ceiling! The website says there's a whole new look: "dark wood floors, stylish new bar, and comfortable new booths." The updated menu---smoked ribs, brisket, pulled pork, steak and bean chili, mac and cheese---holds promise. Out with the old, in with the new. Wonder if they'll keep the little piggy sidewalk sign? Along with these sneaky snaps, our tipster sends word that Gus's will probably reopen in March.
· EaterWie: Gus's Barbecue Shuttered [~ELA~]
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SOUTH PASADENA: Last year, Chris and John Bicos, brothers who own The Original Tops in Pasadena, 
