Bear's Smokehouse BBQ

Pit Master and Co-Owner Jamie "The Bear" McDonald merges his love of Kansas City-barbecue and high-quality food with his business acumen. As a result of his career in the Navy, as a nationally-ranked competitive eater, and a bodybuilder, Bear is committed to being the best at whatever he does. Co-Owner and "Mama Bear" Cheryl McDonald oversees business operations for the restaurant group with the same discipline she used as a competitive bodybuilder. Son Collyn runs the smokers and maintains quality control for the meats that are used in all of the restaurants. Daughter Morgan, when home from college, serves tables and makes guests feel at home at various BRG locations. As you can see, the McDonalds are all-in to make your visit to one of their restaurants a happy and enjoyable experience. Having grown from a takeout-only counter, Bear's Restaurant Group now owns and operates Bear's Smokehouse BBQ in Windsor and Hartford, Bear's Express in South Windsor, Chango Rosa Tacos in Hartford, and Blind Pig Pizza Co. in Hartford. In addition, Bear's is a part owner of the popular The Cook & The Bear in West Hartford. BRG operates takeout concessions at Dunkin' Donuts Park, Rentschler Stadium, Gampel Pavilion, the XL Center, and The Big E. In addition, Bear's has an award-winning catering division that serves everything from barbecue buffets to fine hors-d'oeuvres and sit-down fine dining in a variety of private spaces. The Bear's BBQ food truck has been enjoyed at many street festivals and events, bringing our acclaimed food throughout the state of Connecticut. In addition to our commitment to mouth-watering food and a fun dining experience, BRG seeks to provide a respectful, safe, and fun work environment. We are among the first in the State of Connecticut to voluntarily offer a $15-an-hour minimum wage to non-tipped staff. We have also provided work opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals through culinary training programs and participated in local education initiatives with the Weaver High School Culinary Arts Program. BRG's dedication to community runs in many directions having fundraised for causes as diverse as animal welfare, support for veterans, disaster relief, and much, much more. In addition, BRG sponsors events with donations to ensure that our community remains a healthy, growing community. In 2017, Jamie and Cheryl were honored with the Polaris Award for their service to the region by Leadership Greater Hartford. The Bear's Restaurant Group