Estes Deli and BBQ reopens by popular demand

Estes Deli and BBQ was brought back by popular demand. The restaurant closed in 2004, but when people kept asking owner Alan Estes about reopening, he couldn't resist. Estes Deli and BBQ opened again July 2007.

The restaurant is housed in what was once the Jackson Pizza Hut. Customers can fix their own drinks and relax while dining in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.

As a teenager, Estes worked at Andy's, a small, family-run country store in downtown Jackson. As an adult, he bought the store and started the barbecue business.

The new Estes is a dine-in, carry-out, deli counter and catering business that can also be rented out for special occasions.

Estes said he likes "working with the people." He enjoys his customers so much, he lets them work in the business, too.

"The guests are not given a check," he said. "They just simply tell us what they have had."

Like most local establishments, Estes Deli and BBQ has many regulars.

"I enjoy the diversity of my customer base ranging from farmers to doctors and lawyers," Estes said.

Estes barbecues and smokes all of his meats. The meat is thinly sliced, not from the shoulder but from a leaner cut of meat. He makes his own barbecue rubs, and he sells his sauce.

Although the restaurant is best known for its barbecue, it also offers breakfast items, sandwiches and daily specials.

With chain restaurants on every corner, small business owners can face a big challenge.

"The local business owner must offer something different with good quality service. If he can do that, he can compete with any chain anywhere," Estes said.

Estes Deli is open 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Thursday, 5:30 to 6 p.m. Friday and 5:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

Estes Deli and BBQ

437 W. Main St., Jackson

243-8866