DETROIT – Customers braved cold temperatures Friday to line up outside Parks Old Style Bar-B-Q, hoping to savor one final taste of the longtime Detroit restaurant that’s been serving the community for nearly six decades.
“We can see how much the community loves us. We always get customers, but it’s just like – it hasn’t been this busy in years,” said Chanell McGilary, manager of the north end business.
The family-owned restaurant, a cornerstone of Detroit’s barbecue scene, is set to close its doors on Sunday (Feb. 8), marking the end of a legacy that spans generations of both owners and loyal customers.
“I was coming here ever since I was a little girl. My mom and dad came here when they were little,” said Kimberly Williams, one of many customers who shared memories of the restaurant.
The business has faced financial challenges since last summer when Roderick Parks suffered a heart attack.
His brother Phillip, who helped maintain the business their father started in 1964, has passed away.
“He’s not walking. He did lose his memory a little bit, but he hasn’t forgot about his restaurant,” McGilary said of Roderick. “He’s trying to get mobile so he can get down here and help us run his business.”
For many customers, Parks’ signature sauce has been the secret to its enduring appeal.
“That sauce is number one. The best sauce I’ve had in quite some time,” said Michael Williams.
“People don’t know it’s two different sauces, I believe. They’re used to the tangy sauce, but I like the sweet sauce, so I come for that one,” said customer Camille Lewis.
As the closure looms, the family has started a GoFundMe to keep the business alive.
“If Parks Bar-B-Q has touched anyone’s heart, we are asking anyone to help,” McGilary said.
For many patrons, the restaurant represents more than just a place to eat.
“My grandma and my grandfather used to bring me and my sister down here,” said Lewis. “I’m sad to see it go, but I didn’t want to miss out, so as soon as I got off work, I just ran right up here.”