Barbecue is a staple food in the South, and with so many restaurants covering the region it can be hard to stand out from the rest.

However, since opening on May 14, Raw’s BBQ off U.S. 31 next to Karl’s One Stop has done its best to separate itself.

The restaurant is owned and operated by Allen Wilson and his family and is in the building that was previously occupied by Hot Iron Brand BBQ.

Wilson graduated from Jemison High School in 1981 and spent time as a teacher and coach at five different schools for 17 years, but always considered entering the barbecue business.

“If you live in the South, barbecue is just a part of growing up,” Wilson said.

Most recently, Wilson explored the idea of investing in a food truck when he heard about the vacancy of the current building.

The menu has remained simplistic with sandwiches and platters that include the option of pork, chicken, beef and ribs with chips or sides and a dessert.

According to Wilson, additional items have been added to the menu, such as a loaded baked potato and sausage dogs.

Raw’s has a signature red sauce that Wilson has continued to perfect over the years and a white sauce that is popular with chicken.

The entire Wilson family pitches in to help the restaurant run smoothly. Wilson’s wife Sherry and kids Allie, Anna and Gabe provide major contributions along with help from outside the family by Asia Davison and Davonte Wilson.

While Allen Wilson watches over the meats, Sherry Wilson specializes in desserts, such as banana pudding and various cakes that have not taken long to become customer favorites.

“Without her help none of this would be possible,” Wilson said. “For some customers, the desserts are just as important as the meat.”

The majority of Raw’s business is takeout, due to absence of indoor seating. Two picnic tables outside are the current seating options.

Wilson is aware of the need for seating and has future plans to expand.

Despite the limited seating options, the restaurant has quickly gained a support from regular customers.

“We’re just trying to apply the same things that we learned cooking in the backyard over the years,” Wilson said.

Raw’s is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. each weekday except Wednesday when it closes at 6 p.m.

For information or to place an order, call (205) 955-0327.