Hot Rods BBQ

Wow! It’s hard to believe, but five years ago today, we served our last meal at Hot Rods BBQ after 18 incredible years. That final night was filled with heartfelt speeches from our friends, customers, and staff, sharing what the Hot Rods community meant to them. It was the perfect way to close that chapter of our lives.
Since closing, life has taken us in new directions. Three years ago, Toby had the opportunity to relocate for work, so our whole family took the leap and headed south to the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida, where we've been soaking in the sunshine and enjoying life as patrons rather than restaurant owners.
It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. The years following the closing came with legal challenges tied to the restaurant, which held us back from starting new ventures. Thankfully, those issues are now behind us, and we’re excited to move forward.
So, while Toby has been working as a Senior Project Manager for Johnson & Johnson's consumer products, I’ve embraced Florida’s natural beauty, spent time exploring nearby attractions, and developed a passion for travel.
That passion has led to something new and exciting: Captain Compass Travel & Cruise! Just like planning events and parties at Hot Rods, I approach helping others create unforgettable vacations with the same joy and enthusiasm. My expertise includes cruises, tropical resorts, and family-friendly adventures across Florida, including our iconic theme parks.
I’d be thrilled if you thought of me when planning your next vacation or getaway! You can "Like & Follow" Captain Compass Travel on Facebook and Instagram (links in the comments) to support my journey.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564659494306
I also want to give a special thanks to the friends I know in the travel industry who generously shared advice and helped me get started. Your guidance has been invaluable.
On this 5-year anniversary, Toby and I hope you look back on the "Hot Rods Days" with fond memories—whether it was for the food, the people, or the unforgettable moments we shared. We’re so proud of the community that grew around our little restaurant in Wharton, and were lucky to have gotten our little mining town on national TV twice!!!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love and support, especially to those who’ve reached out over the years. We miss you all!
With love and gratitude,
Anthony & Toby Sibona
P.S. What do you miss most about Hot Rods BBQ? Drop a comment below and let’s reminisce together!

Bacon Wrapped Smoked Brisket Burnt Ends being served at Revolution Social Brew House in Morristown!! While supplies last... we won't have them forever!!

Hey Everyone, it's Anthony, former owner of Hot Rods BBQ!! I hope everyone is surviving in these crazy times. I am pleased to announce that I am currently the Executive Chef at Revolution Social Brewhouse on the Green in Morristown. We don't have a smoker but I have been producing some dynamite items out of the rotisserie unit they have. Many of Hot Rods' signature item are making their way onto the menu and on specials. We are currently serving rotisserie Wings & Ribs, the Hot Rods legendary Corned Beef Reuben, Buffalo Pub Chips, Tacos, signature Cole Slaw and more everyday! The menu also features Fish & Chips, Hummus Platter, Loaded Pierogies. Beer Wurst and more European comfort food. Revolution also has the largest craft beer selection and creative cocktail menus in Morristown. We have over 50 seats on the sidewalk looking at the picturesque Morristown Green. If you miss Hot Rods' one of a kind food, now there is a place to enjoy it again. I hope you will give us a try if your in the area.
Don't forget to ask for me, if I am available, I would love to say hello to a Hot Rods BBQ Fans.
PLEASE SHARE TO HELP GET THE WORD OUT, THANK YOU!!

I wanted to share a memory from one of Hot Rods' long time customers from 8 years ago. We are proud to say Hot Rods BBQ was on the first wave of the craft beer explosion. It went on to be one of the driving forces of our business.
Anybody remember what prize you received if you drank all 34 beers in a month? Hot Rods Craft Beer Club!!!
Thanks for the memory Gene!!!

It's been over 6 months since Hot Rods as closed. If you could take one Hot Rods BBQ menu item home tonight for take-out dinner, what would it be?

Who is wishing they could have a Hot Rods' Margarita and a Taco today! Happy Cinco De Mayo. We miss you all so much!

Missing Hot Rods yet? Hot Rods Community will be holding a Holiday Party and Benefit next Friday at the Wharton American Legion. The event will feature a few Hot Rods signature items as well as some Italian favorites catered from a few local spots. We will be collecting unwrapped toys, non perishable foods and any pet related items to benefit several local charities. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available online. Click the link below to purchase tickets and more info.

Hot Rods Community Holiday Party & Benefit This event will be limited to 100 tickets so don't wait, buy your tickets now. Tickets will NOT be avalible at the door, presale only. Thank you Bill LePore for a great idea to help those in need as well. If you have the resources, please bring a unwrapped children gift, non- perishable food items o...

The past few days have truly been a rollercoaster ride of emotions. We are blown away and humbled by the overwhelming love, encouragement and support we have received via social media, texts and calls. Aside from the praise of great food and service, so many posts talk about how Hot Rods actually changed the course of people's lives. They say success is measured how you postivally effect the world and the people around you, judging from just a small sampling of the public outpouring, we have far succeeded any success we could have imagined. We will always hold the memories of nearly two decades in our hearts and minds forever. We have met some of the most amazing people we now call friends and family. Thank you everyone for supporting our journey and helping us create the Hot Rods Family its spirit will endure through all of you.
PS Look for the Hot Rods story and cookbook next year with all your favorite Hot Rods recipes. Stay in touch here with pics and your good news.

Some more amazing pics for memories

One move video celebrating all the great times we have had with our staff and guests over the last 18 years. In both videos, I tried my best to include many people that have touched us over the year but I simply could not find photos of. We will have another video coming from old school days (pre- social media) when I get the files. Thank you everyone for the memories.

Goodbye Hot Rods Staff and Guests This video is for the closing of a restaurant. A celebration video of 18 great years.

After 18 years, it's time to say goodbye. We have had the most amazing journey meeting so many guests that we now call friends. We have accomplished so much, from being one of the first BBQ restaurants in NJ, to our feature on national TV. We have been blessed with a super staff, many of which have been with us for numerous years, and rabidly loyal guests that have followed Hot Rods for nearly two decades.
As we have mixed emotions about closing this chapter of our lives, we will cherish all the great times we have had and the challenges we have faced over the years. It is becoming clear the positive impact Hot Rods has made to peoples lives and brought special people together. At the end of the day, knowing we have created a culture that has helped our community makes it all worth it. Thank you to everyone that has made Hot Rods a special place to work and spend time. Hot Rods will be officially closing after dinner on Tuesday night. We can't guarantee stock of any item or beverage but if you were a former staff member or loyal guest we would love to say goodbye. We will miss all of you. ......Thank you for the memories.

PS Any negative comments will promptly be removed, let's keep it positive

Hot Rods Farewell Video This video is a farewell for a closing restaurant after 18 years in business, Song by the Lumineers. Thank you for the memories.