Celebrating the Cornerstone of Atlanta: 40 Years of “This Is It!”
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In the heart of Atlanta, a unique establishment has been serving flavor, favor, faith, and family for four decades. “This Is It! Southern Kitchen & Bar-B-Q” is known as much for its joyous chant, “It’s the rib tips!” as it is for its succulent barbecue and warm community spirit. As it approaches its 40th year in business, the restaurant invites the community to commemorate this milestone by embarking on a flavorful journey that transcends the dining experience.
The founder and CEO, Mr. Shelley “Butch” Anthony III, a man of faith who is the embodiment of accomplishing great things through Christ, has orchestrated a series of special events to celebrate this remarkable journey. The highlight of these festivities is the premiere of a revealing documentary: “This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ.” The documentary, directed by Tammy Williams—the first Black woman to own a production studio in Georgia—charts the story of Anthony’s triumphant journey through faith, persistence, and a love for good food.
Unveiling the Path of Resilience: “This Is It! The Miracle of BBQ”
To witness the rise of “This Is It!” is to experience a testament to divine grace. The documentary, being premiered at the Fabulous Fox Theatre on Sunday, June 11th, seamlessly intertwines the current-day success of the restaurant, now boasting over ten outlets, with the 40-year history of this cherished family enterprise.
The film doesn’t shy away from exposing the challenges of entrepreneurship. It portrays how Anthony, armed with unwavering faith and resilience, overcame personal struggles and limitations to create a legacy that has enriched Atlanta’s culinary scene. A primary theme of the documentary, embodied by Anthony’s life story, is the transformative power of a relationship with God. Anthony envisions that attendees will leave the premiere inspired, convinced of their potential to accomplish great feats through divine grace.
A Testament to Faith, Community, and Culinary Excellence
“Whatever you do [whatever your task may be], work from the soul [that is, put in your very best effort], as [something done] for the Lord and not for men,” reads Colossians 3:23-24. This scriptural verse aptly encapsulates the core ethos of “This Is It!”—Excellence in Service. It’s no wonder that the restaurant’s services have been hailed for their consistent high quality and soulful flavors, grounded in authentic southern culinary traditions.
From the first restaurant opened in East Point to the current ten-plus locations, “This Is It!” continues to set benchmarks for serving quality food in a fast-casual setting. Anthony firmly believes the secret to this success lies in Jesus Christ, shaping the restaurant’s vision of faith, family, favor, and flavor.
Looking Forward: A Toast to Continued Success
With the documentary premiere being a red carpet event, the occasion is more than a celebration of “This Is It’s” 40 years of service—it’s a tribute to faith, resilience, and the unyielding spirit of entrepreneurship. The documentary features notable personalities including comedian Bruce Bruce, recording artist CeeLo Green, and WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, among others, who lend their voice to Anthony’s inspiring journey.
The restaurant welcomes the community of Atlanta to join the celebration and witness the miracle of BBQ. The joy of the occasion is doubled with the news of new tickets being made available for the documentary’s premiere. As the countdown begins, the anticipation builds for a celebration that promises to be as memorable as the restaurant’s culinary legacy.
With its commitment to quality food, impeccable service, and community spirit, “This Is It!” exemplifies the quintessential American success story, all while humbly attributing its achievements to divine providence. As the enterprise embarks on the next chapter of its journey, it stands as a beacon of inspiration—a testament that, indeed, “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13).