The origins of Meat Boss started with a businessman who loved to cook as a hobby but who also loved to serve people.
Benny Chinnis (The Meat Boss) always loved to grill, and—like any man—loved a massive grilling machine. When Benny couldn’t find one he liked, he thought “I’ll just build one!” And so, he built himself a grill and smoker…an “all-wood burning, check-your-meats-all-night” kind of smoker. As a hobby second only to fishing, Benny loved to cook meats for any event and all friends and family. He always loved trying new recipes, and when he needed BBQ sauce, again he thought, “I can’t find one I like, so I’ll just create one!”
Benny was a man who survived cancer in 2004, a car wreck, and a struggling economy that forced the closure of a large business he owned previously. Because of his strong work ethic, his desire to provide for his family and others, he was determined to make a strong comeback.
In December 2012 at age 45, Benny made the decision to start something new with his smoker, $3000 and his faith that God was in control. He started by smoking whole butts and briskets and opened a take-out counter making sandwiches and sides with two willing helpers—his wife and his dad! Since then, Meat Boss has continually grown by increasing the number of employees, building out and expanding our space and equipment and adding catering. We have been blessed to cook both on local and national television, sponsored events and won numerous awards such as Nappie’s Best BBQ Sauce and Best BBQ Restaurant in Mobile & Baldwin Counties for several years.
When anyone asked him about the popularity of Meat Boss, Benny was quick to give God all the glory for it. He would never take credit for its success but was always grateful for the opportunity to do what he loved. Sadly, we lost Benny, the Meat Boss, to cancer in October 2022 but we are at peace knowing he is pain-free and at peace with Jesus. Meat Boss, the restaurant, continues to move forward and expand yearly in the capable hands of Benny’s wife, Dara Chinnis and daughter, Chef Leah Chinnis Lott. He taught us well and we continue to do everything, as he would say, “The Meat Boss Way” – to work hard and to serve above and beyond with hospitality. We continue to smoke more and more meats for anyone who wants to come over and eat with us. When you visit our restaurant, you are being welcomed into our home. Thank you for eating with us!
-Dara
Mrs. Meat Boss