Owners Bernie and Linda Watson created LJ's BBQ to replicate the feel of the "Eat it 'n Beat It" authentic roadside barbecues that Bernie's family from Arkansas and Virginia had come to love. LJ's is named after Bernie's wife, Linda and his late grandmother Miss Leola Jean, whose recipes fill the menu.

LJ's opened in 2001 to a host of critical reviews including "Best of Rhode Island". Today, LJ's continues to offer outstanding family values and genuine down home cooked meals. LJ's has achieved their proven track record as an Award Winning Barbecue Restaurant by specializing in the preparation and service of hickory smoked ribs, chicken, beef, and pork, prepared by low and slow cooking in their customized barbecue pit.