Aaron Franklin, born on December 17, 1977, in Bryan, Texas, is a name that resonates with barbecue enthusiasts around the globe. His rise from modest beginnings at a family BBQ stand to becoming a culinary icon is a story filled with passion, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to authenticity. With an estimated net worth of $4 million as of 2024, Franklin’s influence on American barbecue culture is undeniable.
Franklin’s expertise in BBQ, coupled with his television appearances, cookbooks, and a line of BBQ products, has solidified his place in the upper echelons of the culinary world. But his journey to stardom didn’t happen overnight. Let’s dive into his early years, career, family life, and the impact he’s had on the world of BBQ.
A Passion for Cooking, Sparked in Childhood
Aaron Franklin’s passion for cooking, especially barbecue, started at a young age. Growing up in Bryan, Texas, his family owned a BBQ stand, where young Franklin would often help out. These formative experiences around the smoker sparked his initial interest in cooking and planted the seed for what would later become a life-long pursuit.
Franklin’s connection to BBQ runs deep. Even while in high school, he knew that his future lay in food. But it wasn’t just barbecue that intrigued him. Franklin is also a passionate music lover, something he credits to spending time in his grandparents’ record shop as a child. He developed a love for indie rock, jazz, and country music, which would later play a significant role in shaping the vibe of his restaurants and public persona.
After moving to Austin, Texas, in his twenties, Franklin played in various rock bands while nurturing his passion for cooking. It was during this time that his dream of opening his own BBQ joint began to take shape.
The Birth of Franklin Barbecue
In 2009, Franklin’s dream became a reality when he and his wife Stacy opened Franklin Barbecue in Austin, Texas. Initially, it was a small operation, born out of their shared love for hosting barbecues at their home. Little did they know that this humble beginning would lead to the creation of one of the most famous BBQ joints in the United States.
Franklin Barbecue quickly gained a reputation for its delicious smoked meats, especially brisket, and soon, locals and tourists alike were flocking to experience what many considered the best barbecue in Texas. The restaurant became so popular that it regularly sold out of brisket, with some records showing that they sold out as early as 9:30 a.m. on particularly busy days.
The lines at Franklin Barbecue became legendary, with patrons often waiting for hours just to get a taste of Franklin’s signature dishes. The atmosphere outside the restaurant has become something of a tailgate party, with food enthusiasts making a day out of waiting for their turn at the counter.
National Fame and TV Appearances
The true turning point in Aaron Franklin’s career came in 2012 when renowned chef and TV host Anthony Bourdain featured Franklin Barbecue on his show, No Reservations. This national exposure catapulted Franklin into the culinary spotlight, and the demand for his food soared to new heights.
In 2015, Franklin launched his own web series, BBQ with Franklin. The show, which aired on PBS affiliates and Creative TV, explored the intricacies of barbecue, from smoking techniques to the culture surrounding it. Franklin’s down-to-earth style and deep knowledge of barbecue resonated with audiences, making the show a hit.
In addition to his own show, Franklin has made guest appearances on BBQ Pitmasters, Live with Kelly and Ryan, and The Chef Show. He’s also been featured in commercials for major brands like Chase Bank, further expanding his public profile.
One of Franklin’s most high-profile moments came in 2014 when President Barack Obama visited Franklin Barbecue during a trip to Austin. Not only did the president enjoy the food, but he also bought meals for everyone in line, cementing Franklin’s status as a national icon.
Recognition and Awards
Franklin’s accolades in the culinary world are numerous. In 2015, he was honored with the prestigious James Beard Award for Best Chef: Southwest, a remarkable achievement for a chef specializing in BBQ. His restaurant has also been named the Best Barbecue Joint in America by Bon Appétit magazine and has consistently received rave reviews from Texas Monthly.
Despite receiving offers to franchise Franklin Barbecue or expand its operations, Franklin has remained committed to keeping his business small and authentic. He has openly stated that “selling out” would be one of his worst failures, preferring to maintain the personal, “ma and pa” style operation that has made his restaurant so beloved.
Diversifying His Portfolio
While Franklin is best known for his barbecue restaurant, his business ventures extend far beyond the smoker. In addition to running Franklin Barbecue, Franklin has launched several other successful projects.
One of his most notable ventures is Loro, a restaurant that blends Asian flavors with Texas BBQ traditions. The first Loro opened in Austin in 2018, followed by a second location in Dallas in 2021. In 2023, Franklin expanded his culinary footprint further by opening a New Orleans-style spot in Austin, showcasing his versatility as a chef and restaurateur.
Franklin has also made his mark in the publishing world with two bestselling cookbooks, Franklin Barbecue: A Meat-Smoking Manifesto and Franklin Steak. These books have sold over a million copies combined and have been featured on The New York Times best-seller list.
Additionally, Franklin has capitalized on his expertise by launching a line of BBQ products, including Franklin Barbecue Pits, which have been popular with home barbecue enthusiasts looking to replicate his “low and slow” smoking techniques.
Personal Life: Balancing Work and Family
While Aaron Franklin’s professional achievements are impressive, his personal life is equally fulfilling. Franklin is married to Stacy Franklin, who plays a crucial role in managing the business side of Franklin Barbecue. Together, the couple has one daughter, Vivian, and they reside in Austin, Texas.
Stacy Franklin’s entrepreneurial spirit complements Aaron’s culinary talents. Originally from Amarillo, Texas, she left college early to pursue her business ambitions, and her partnership with Aaron has been instrumental in the success of Franklin Barbecue.
Net Worth and Future Endeavors
As of 2024, Aaron Franklin’s estimated net worth stands at $4 million. His income is derived from multiple sources, including his restaurants, television appearances, bestselling cookbooks, and product lines.
Despite his financial success, Franklin remains grounded. He continues to work long hours at Franklin Barbecue, often putting in 70 to 80 hours a week to ensure the quality of the food and the satisfaction of his customers.
Looking ahead, Franklin shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to innovate and expand his brand, with his eyes set on new projects that stay true to his roots while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of BBQ.
Conclusion
Aaron Franklin’s journey from helping at his family’s BBQ stand to becoming a globally recognized BBQ chef is a story of passion, perseverance, and authenticity. Through hard work and an unwavering commitment to quality, he has not only elevated his own career but has also played a significant role in redefining the American BBQ scene.