Burnt ends beer? KC celebrates unique creations on National BBQ Day

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Restaurants aren’t the only place you can celebrate on National BBQ Day this year.

KCTV’s Katie Byrd sat down with Jonathan Bender, the founder of the Museum of BBQ, to learn about barbecue’s rich history in the Heart of America.

The metro is home to over one hundred unique BBQ spots. While that’s no surprise, many may wonder how exactly barbecue landed in Kansas City.

Bender explained how the city became a trade hub after the completion of the Hannibal Bridge 1869. This helped millions of heads of cattle make their way to Kansas City. Pitmasters used the city’s abundant supply of meat to make savory new creations. One of their most iconic? Burnt ends.

What started out as an unwanted scrap turned into a must-have in KC restaurants. Now, burnt ends have even inspired a new Boulevard beer.

On May 22nd, the ‘MO BBQ’ barrel-aged smoked quad ale will be released.

“This is a beer that was really inspired by that identity and feeling and flavors of Kansas City barbecue,” said Bender.

Bender acknowledged just how renowned Kansas City is is when it comes to barbecue.

“There are these really lovely contributions to barbecue that come from Kansas City, and we have truly become a Barbecue melting pot,” Bender said.

READ MORE: World’s first museum dedicated to BBQ opening at Crown Center in April

While it’s been open for only a month, the Museum of Barbecue is already attracting fans from around the world.

“We had folks in from Vancouver, so it was really neat to be able to kind of share the traditions of Kansas City with a literally international audience,” Bender said.

Bender said it’s impossible to pick just one favorite Kansas City barbecue spot.

“I actually truly believe that at each Kansas City Restaurant, there’s something to be appreciated and celebrated,” said Bender.

The Museum of BBQ features a gift shop and is interactive.

“We have a giant pit of baked beans where people can actually immerse themselves,” said Bender.

So, what can Kansas Citians expect next at the world’s only museum dedicated to barbecue? Bender said that many people have asked about classes and education.

“I think that’s what’s coming next for the museum,” Bender said.

The Museum of Barbecue is located at Crown Center and is open every day of the week. Attendees can purchase tickets ahead of going on the museum’s website.

ALSO READ: Trio of motorcycle club plead guilty for armed assault

Copyright 2025 KCTV. All rights reserved.