South Tampa staple Kojak’s House of Ribs closed last year after owner Chris Forney sold the property to apartment developers, but there was still hope of reopening.
At the time of the closing, Forney said the restaurant might reopen in a smaller spot that was “easier to maintain,” and the hunt was on. Apparently, that location was found in the shell of an old Pizza Hut.
Now, the popular BBQ spot is set to open back up at 1809 S Parsons Ave. in Seffner right across the street from Hungry Harry’s Famous BBQ, another local favorite. The new Kojak’s also shares a plaza with Winn-Dixie, Breakers Bar, a Bank of America and a CVS, so you could get a lot done in one trip.
Right now, the BBQ spot is waiting on materials to arrive so build-out can start, and opening is “still a little while out,” according to Forney. There’s a sign up on the building, though, with a “coming soon” written underneath it.
No details have been revealed about a menu yet either, but if it’s the same as the original, you can expect plenty of BBQ classics like ribs, smoked meats and plenty of chicken and pulled pork. Sides were simple: “Kojak’s Famous” parsley potatoes, cole slaw, macaroni or potato salad, baked beans, apple sauce or green beans.
Once things open back up, don’t forget the Key lime pie.
The opening was announced on Forney’s Facebook, but you can also check out the restaurant’s Facebook to keep up with all the construction details. Please, meaty deity, let there be a BBQ buffet.
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