A local barbecue restaurant in Inola, Oklahoma, has seen an extraordinary surge in business after several social media influencers visited and shared their experiences online. Countrymen Barbecue, known for its traditional smoked meats and homemade flavors, is now attracting large crowds, thanks to viral social media posts.
A Labor of Love Turned Viral Sensation
Countrymen Barbecue was founded by Joe Walton as a weekend passion project. Dedicated to perfecting the art of barbecue, Walton and his family worked tirelessly to create an authentic and memorable dining experience for their community.
For a long time, the restaurant thrived on word-of-mouth recommendations, but everything changed when local influencers took notice.
Influencers Bring Countrymen Barbecue Into the Spotlight
Several well-known social media creators, including @TulsaBite, @highitstarra, @bigtre_918, and @the918agent, recently visited Countrymen Barbecue. Their videos highlighting the restaurant’s smoked meats, cozy atmosphere, and Walton’s dedication quickly gained traction online, amassing nearly one million views collectively. As a result, the restaurant saw an immediate and overwhelming increase in foot traffic.
A Turning Point for Local Business
For Walton, the sudden influx of customers has been both a blessing and a challenge. “We’ve always believed in our food and the love we put into it, but to see so many people show up because of social media is incredible,” Walton shared.
Since the influencers’ visits, lines have stretched down the block, with some customers arriving hours before opening just to get a taste of Countrymen’s famous brisket and ribs.
The Power of Digital Word-of-Mouth
The rapid success of Countrymen Barbecue highlights the power of social media in transforming small businesses. Unlike traditional advertising, influencer marketing brings authenticity and direct engagement with potential customers.
When food lovers see their favorite content creators rave about a restaurant, they are more likely to visit and share their own experiences, further amplifying the restaurant’s visibility.
What’s on the Menu?
One of the key reasons for Countrymen Barbecue’s growing popularity is its high-quality, slow-smoked meats cooked over a Hasty Bake charcoal grill. Some customer favorites include:
- Brisket: Tender, smoky, and full of flavor
- Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone perfection
- Pulled Pork: Juicy and perfectly seasoned
- Sausage Links: Packed with spice and smoky goodness
The restaurant also offers a selection of homemade sides, including coleslaw, baked beans, and mac and cheese, rounding out a true Southern BBQ experience.
Planning a Visit? Here’s What to Know
For those looking to experience Countrymen Barbecue, the restaurant is open only on Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Due to the recent influx of customers, patrons are advised to arrive early. Many have reported lines forming as early as 3 p.m. to secure their meals before supplies run out.
The restaurant is located at 24 W Commercial St, Inola, OK 74036. However, it will be closed on March 15th and 22nd due to family commitments.
The Future of Countrymen Barbecue
With its newfound popularity, Walton and his family are considering expanding their hours and exploring new ways to accommodate the growing demand. Many customers have suggested additional days of operation, and some have even inquired about catering services for events.
While no official decisions have been made, Walton remains grateful for the overwhelming support and plans to continue serving high-quality barbecue to his community.
How Small Businesses Can Leverage Social Media
The success story of Countrymen Barbecue serves as an inspiration for other small businesses. Here are some key takeaways for local entrepreneurs looking to boost their visibility:
- Engage with local influencers: Reach out to social media creators who align with your brand and invite them to experience your product or service.
- Encourage customer-generated content: Ask happy customers to share their experiences online and tag your business.
- Be active on social media: Regularly post updates, special deals, and behind-the-scenes content to keep customers engaged.
- Deliver exceptional service: A great product and friendly atmosphere will naturally attract positive attention and word-of-mouth referrals.
Final Thoughts
Countrymen Barbecue’s viral success is proof that social media has the power to transform local businesses overnight. What started as a small-town gem has now become a must-visit destination for barbecue lovers, thanks to the influence of digital creators.
As Walton and his family navigate this exciting new chapter, one thing remains certain—great food and a strong community will always be the foundation of their success.
For more information on this incredible transformation, visit News9.
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