Chef Ryan Edwards’ flame rises with new BBQ concept (in a familiar Lenexa space) 

A new BBQ hotspot opened this week on Lackman Road, bringing a seasoned restauranteur’s latest concept — and the taste of distinctly Kansas City barbecue — back to his old grilling grounds.

Sierra BBQ, a casual dining concept from chef-owner Ryan Edwards, debuted Tuesday in the former Johnson County space occupied by Edwards’ acclaimed Sierra Grill Steakhouse. That popular restaurant previously relocated to Lenexa City Center.

“We’ve kept the space intimate and unpretentious, just as people fondly remember from our roots,” said Edwards. “It’s perfect for bringing people together over homestyle BBQ in a welcoming setting.”

The laid-back experience at 11099 Lackman Road in Lenexa — a cozy 50-seat dining area with a warm, neighborhood feel — offers the chef’s signature attention to detail, he said, along with a menu that features baby back and spareribs, brisket, burnt ends, pulled pork, smoked turkey, sausage, and more — all finished over a wood-fire grill to enhance flavor.

Guests can also enjoy house-made sides such as BBQ beans, potato salad, and cheesy corn, crafted with the same care as the meat.

Click here to follow Sierra BBQ on Instagram.

Diners enjoy opening day at Sierra BBQ; photo courtesy of Tonya Mangels, Sierra Restaurant Group

Designed for quick and convenient service, the focus will be on takeout, delivery, and catering — ideal for lunch breaks, office meetings, or casual family dinners, said Tonya Mangels, head of marketing for Sierra Restaurant Group and founder of GRIT Advantage, a marketing strategy and restaurant consulting firm.

“Sierra Grill’s loyal guests are truly the heart of our success. Their passion for our distinctive scratch-made food and unwavering support has helped us exceed industry trends and achieve remarkable growth,” Mangels continued. “We’re excited to see the same enthusiasm building around Sierra BBQ, where we’ll continue delivering the exceptional flavors and authentic experiences our guests love.”

Initial hours of operation are set for 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday.

Mari-Cris and Ryan Edwards, Sierra Grill and Sierra BBQ; photo courtesy of Tonya Mangels, Sierra Restaurant Group

Edwards and his wife, whose maiden name inspired the “Sierra” brand, returned to Kansas City to raise their family and reconnect with their roots.

“Sierra Grill gave us the chance to introduce upscale wood-fired cooking to Lenexa, and with its continued success, now feels like the perfect time to bring another passion to life,” he said. “I’ve always had BBQ in my heart — we grew up cooking with fire, and I’ve been smoking meats at Sierra Grill for years.”