224 Media

In a county where truly great barbecue has always been hard to come by, The Bearded Baby Que feels like both a revelation and a homecoming.

Nestled in Sussex Borough, this family-owned gem is serving up authentic Texas-style barbecue right here in New Jersey—and doing it exceptionally well. The food is rich, intentional, and full of soul, but what truly sets The Bearded Baby Que apart is the heart behind it.

The space itself is beautiful: exposed brick walls, yellow seating (a personal favorite), and a design that feels welcoming without trying too hard. The prices are approachable, the portions generous, and the atmosphere inviting—exactly the kind of place you want to return to again and again.

Before opening their brick-and-mortar space, the team behind Bearded Baby Que built their following the old-fashioned way: through a food truck, festivals, pop-ups, and long days fueled by passion and belief. If you’ve spent time at local events over the years, chances are you’ve already tasted their food and felt their energy. Now, that same passion has found a permanent home—one where the community can gather, sit down, and stay awhile.

224 had the pleasure of visiting (more than once), and every experience has been nothing short of incredible. From the first bite, it’s clear the food is made with care, craft, and pride. But beyond the plates, it’s the people who leave the lasting impression.

We had the pleasure of speaking to Cyndi & she is a light the moment you meet her—warm, genuine, and full of love. Meeting her children and witnessing the way she and Brian pour themselves into both their family and their restaurant is something special. That love is tangible, you feel it as soon as you walk through the door.

And then there’s the food—because it deserves its own moment. The pulled pork is absolutely one of my favorites: tender, flavorful, and done exactly right. The ribs? A solid 10 out of 10. Fall-off-the-bone, perfectly seasoned, and unforgettable. But the true standout for me is the Bearded Chili. Everyone needs to run—yes, run—and get it. It’s genuinely one of the best things I’ve ever tasted: rich, deeply flavorful, comforting, and bold in all the right ways. Even the french fries deserve recognition—crispy, seasoned, and easily a 10 out of 10 on their own. Every item feels intentional, well-executed, and made with care.

But The Bearded Baby Barbecue isn’t just about food. It’s about community.

They’ve already hosted trivia nights, Valentine’s events, and family-friendly gatherings that invite people to connect in real life—something that feels increasingly rare and incredibly valuable. From mother-daughter duos sharing a meal to families celebrating together, the room is filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection. Their next event, is February 14th at 12pm, complete with kid-friendly activities like face painting and balloons, is just another example of how thoughtfully they show up for their community.

Recently welcoming a new baby into their own family, Cyndi and Brian are living proof that love multiplies when it’s shared. The same care they bring to their growing family is the care they bring to Sussex County—and to every person they serve.

In so many ways, The Bearded Baby Que embodies everything 224 stands for: family, creativity, food as a gathering place, and businesses that restore the beauty of in-person connection. Restaurants like this don’t just feed people—they anchor communities.

I recommend The Bearded Baby Que to everyone. For the food, yes—but even more for the warmth, the intention, and the love that fills the space. We’re so excited to watch them continue to grow. Take a look at their menu and make sure to stop by!