Popular Local BBQ Chain To Open Hoover Location

HOOVER, AL — Hoover is about to get a new barbecue restaurant, but with a familiar name. In the third week of February the team at SAW’s BBQ will open their latest location, extending their Birmingham footprint with a new franchise location in Hoover.

The Hoover location is SAW’s third franchise location. It is in the Riverchase Village shopping center anchored by Best Buy, at the intersection of Highway 31 and Lorna Road.

SAW’s BBQ opened in 2009 with a single location in Homewood. At the time of Hoover’s opening there will be six locations throughout the Birmingham area and a food truck that serves local businesses and events.

Neil Patel is the franchisee of the new Hoover location. Patel grew up in Hoover and attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He has deep experience in restaurant ownership in the Birmingham market, and the restaurant business runs in his family. He learned the ropes from his father, Bob, who has decades of experience in hospitality and franchises.

"When I had my first experience at Saw’s Soul Kitchen back in 2010, I was blown away not only by the food, but the entire customer experience Saw’s has to offer,” Patel said. “I could feel the pride, love, and commitment to culture like I have never seen before. To me that is what makes Saw’s so appealing and unique as compared to other establishments. We are beyond thrilled for the Hoover grand opening. Hoover always has had a special place in my heart. This city deserves an experience and culture that friends and family can call their own."

“We’re so happy to be welcomed into Hoover,” said Brandon Cain, owner and executive chef, SAW’s BBQ. “We are just beginning to franchise, and Hoover was a natural choice for a location. We have so many customers here, and we listened to them when they asked us to bring SAW’s closer to home. The welcome has been warm, and we can’t wait to make these folks dinner.”

Diners at the Hoover location can expect the classic menu items, like SAW’s original pulled pork, the sweet tea chicken sandwich, pork and greens, smoked chicken with white sauce, shrimp and grits and more.

SAW’s Hoover is now hiring for servers and bartenders. Those seeking information on employment opportunities can submit interest via the contact form on SAW’s website.

Hours of operation will be Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.