Popular Southern California BBQ joint closing after 75 years

A beloved Southern California barbecue joint announced it was closing its Bellflower restaurant after 75 years.

Chris & Pitts BBQ broke the news on Tuesday that its outpost at 9839 Artesia Blvd. had shuttered

“With grateful hearts, we say goodbye to our beloved location and thank you to all of our loyal customers and dedicated employees who have made the past 75 years so special,” the restaurant wrote on its Facebook page.

“We are truly honored to have been a part of your lives and our community for three-quarters of a century.

“Thank you for 75 great years of memories, friendship, and support.”

Chris & Pitts BBQ noted that its restaurant at 9243 Lakewood Blvd. in Downey would remain open.

The restaurant once had at least 15 locations across Southern California.

In the 1950s, the restaurant’s founder, Chris George Pelonis, developed a BBQ sauce that was a top seller in many Western states.

“We look forward to seeing you there! With sincere gratitude, Thank you for being part of our family,” the message concluded. 

An earlier post said the Bellflower location was “officially closed,” but the restaurant gave no reason for the move.

Customers shared fond memories of Chris & Pitts in response to the news.

“Grew up eating here, took my kids when we moved from the area. My father worked here in the 40s when it was a diner. He washed dishes. So many memories,” one wrote on social media.

“Oh wow! I remember first going with my family as a child,” another added.

“Vivid memories of waiting for hours to get a table and playing video games while we waited. Did you already close? I’d love one last visit,” a third asked.

The popular barbecue spot, established in 1949, touts itself as the “Home of the Live Wood Fire” and specializes in everything from ribs to chicken and sandwiches.

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