JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — After nearly seven decades, Jenkins Quality Barbecue is closing all three of its locations on North Pearl Street, Emerson Street and New Kings Road. 

For generations of locals, the restaurant has been more than just a place to grab ribs, chicken and their famous barbecue sauce. It’s been a community staple.

At the Pearl Street location, the first thing customers noticed is the sign on the door announcing the closure. Inside service was no longer available, leaving the drive-thru as the only way to get a meal. Lines almost touched the main street, with many waiting more than 30 minutes for a last taste of history.

Customers said the wait was worth it. Some were stocking up on multiple bottles of the restaurant’s signature barbecue sauce, ensuring they can bring a piece of Jenkins home long after the doors close. The sauce has long been a fan favorite, with some customers driving to multiple locations just to stock up before online orders end on September 21. “If we can’t have Jenkins at least we can stock up on the sauce,” one customer said.

“It shouldn’t happen, you know,” another customer said. “That’s what my heart desires, that they get it back up and running because we’re going to miss this. And the community will miss this very much.”

The Jenkins family cited rising food and labor costs, ongoing supply chain issues and changing consumer habits as the reasons behind the decision to close. Despite the sadness, customers continue to show up in droves, celebrating the flavors and memories the restaurant created.

All three locations are scheduled to close on September 30. Online orders for Jenkins’ barbecue sauce will end on September 21. The owners plan to speak more about their decision with First Coast News next week.