The Return Of The King: 5 Reasons Little Mark's Big BBQ Is Vernon, CT's Most-Anticipated Restaurant Reopening
The long wait is officially over. As of December 22, 2025, the smoke is rising once again in Vernon, Connecticut, signaling the triumphant return of a local culinary legend: Little Mark's Big BBQ. After a four-year hiatus that left a "butt-kickin'" sized hole in the hearts of New England barbecue enthusiasts, owner George Giotsas has reignited the smokers at a brand-new, highly anticipated location, promising the same authentic, slow-smoked flavors that made the establishment an institution for decades.
This isn't just another restaurant opening; it's a homecoming. The original Little Mark's Big BBQ, which first opened its doors in 1990, built a fiercely loyal following based on its commitment to traditional, time-intensive barbecue methods. The new iteration, Little Mark's BBQ & Grill, is poised to reclaim its title as the undisputed champion of the Connecticut barbecue scene, bringing back the legendary ribs, brisket, and signature sauces that customers have been craving since its closure in 2020.
George Giotsas: The Man Behind the "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin'" BBQ
The story of Little Mark's is intrinsically linked to its dedicated owner, George Giotsas. His passion for authentic, Southern-style barbecue is the driving force behind the restaurant's enduring success and its much-celebrated return to the Vernon community.
Biography Profile: George Giotsas
- Role: Owner and Pitmaster, Little Mark's Big BBQ & Grill.
- Business History: Founded the original Little Mark's Big BBQ in 1990.
- Location (Original): 226 Talcottville Rd, Vernon, CT (Closed 2020).
- Location (New): 346 Kelly Road, Vernon Rockville, CT 06066.
- Cuisine Style: Authentic, Southern-style BBQ featuring slow-smoked meats.
- Motto: Known for "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin' BBQ."
- Legacy: Overseeing one of Connecticut's longest-running and most beloved family-owned BBQ restaurants.
Giotsas has often spoken about the simple, yet painstaking, process that defines his barbecue. His goal, since day one in 1990, has been to make the best BBQ around, a mission achieved through meticulous smoking techniques that render the meat tender and flavorful. This dedication to craft is why the restaurant is considered a staple in the Vernon area, and why its return has generated such significant buzz across Tolland County and the wider Capitol Planning Region.
5 Reasons Little Mark's Big BBQ is a Connecticut Staple
The enthusiasm surrounding the reopening isn't just nostalgia; it's a testament to the quality and unique experience Little Mark's Big BBQ provides. Here are the top five reasons why this family-owned restaurant has achieved legendary status and why its return is so important to the local dining scene.
1. The Return to 346 Kelly Road: The New Home
The new location at 346 Kelly Road in Vernon Rockville marks a significant upgrade for the restaurant. This site, formerly home to other eateries like Angellino's and Frankie B's, has been completely transformed to accommodate the unique needs of a true smokehouse. The anticipation was building for months as Antico Enterprises, the property owner, worked to prepare the space for the "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin' BBQ" experience. The new spot provides a fresh atmosphere while maintaining the authentic, welcoming vibe that patrons remember.
The move represents a new chapter after the original location on Talcottville Road closed. The Vernon community has rallied behind this return, recognizing that a great local business is not just about the food, but about the people and the history it represents. The new Little Mark's BBQ & Grill is now open for both lunch and dinner, ready to serve its loyal fanbase and new customers alike.
2. The Unrivaled Slow-Smoking Technique
What truly sets Little Mark's apart from other Connecticut barbecue spots is its unwavering commitment to the slow-smoking process. This is the core of their "Big BBQ" philosophy. The meats—including the legendary Beef Brisket and tender pork—are smoked for hours, sometimes overnight, using a carefully selected blend of woods to achieve a deep, smoky flavor and a perfect bark. This painstaking attention to detail ensures that every bite is not only juicy but imbued with an authentic taste that cannot be rushed or imitated.
The pitmasters at Little Mark's understand that barbecue is an art form that requires patience, heat management, and a deep respect for the meat. This dedication to the craft is why customers are willing to drive from all over the Naugatuck Valley and beyond for a taste of their specialty smoked offerings.
3. A Menu Built on "BBQ All-Stars" and Unique Offerings
The menu at Little Mark's Big BBQ & Grill is a masterclass in Southern comfort food, designed to satisfy any barbecue craving. The offerings are wide-ranging, featuring classic smoked meats alongside unique regional specialties that add to the restaurant's topical authority in the barbecue space.
- The BBQ All Stars: A fan-favorite combination featuring a half-rack of BBQ ribs and a half smoked BBQ chicken, allowing diners to sample the best of the pit.
- Smoked Brisket: The cornerstone of any great BBQ joint, their brisket is praised for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- The BBQ Clucker: A smoked half chicken, perfectly seasoned and finished with a choice of their signature BBQ sauces.
- Unique Sandwiches: Beyond the plates, the menu features specialty items like the Hot Texas Sausage, the BBQ Killer Pork sandwich, and the Lone Star Beer Battered Catfish, offering a true taste of American regional cuisine.
The selection of sides, from creamy coleslaw to baked beans, complements the rich, smoky meats, creating a complete and satisfying meal that keeps customers coming back for more.
4. A Deep-Rooted Family Legacy in Vernon
Little Mark's Big BBQ is more than a business; it’s a family-owned institution with a history dating back to 1990. This deep-rooted connection to Vernon, CT, is a key reason for the community’s fervent support. The restaurant has served generations of families, becoming a consistent, reliable source of quality food and a friendly atmosphere. The return of George Giotsas and his team is seen as a revitalization of a beloved local landmark, providing a sense of comfort and continuity for residents.
The family focus extends to the customer experience, where service is often highlighted in reviews as being warm, inviting, and attentive. This commitment to hospitality, combined with the superior quality of the food, solidifies its position as a cherished part of the Tolland County dining landscape.
5. The Signature "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin'" Experience
The restaurant’s famous motto, "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin' BBQ," perfectly encapsulates the dining experience. It's a promise of bold, intense flavors and a meal that leaves a lasting impression. This phrase is more than marketing; it’s a standard of quality that George Giotsas has upheld for over three decades.
From the moment you smell the smoke wafting from the pit to the final bite of a perfectly charred rib, the experience is designed to be authentic and memorable. The combination of slow-smoked meats, signature sauces, and generous portions ensures that every customer leaves fully satisfied and eager to return. For those seeking authentic, no-frills, high-quality barbecue in the Northeast, Little Mark's Big BBQ & Grill remains the definitive destination.
What to Expect on Your First Visit to the New Little Mark's
If you're planning a visit to the newly reopened Little Mark's BBQ & Grill at 346 Kelly Road, here is what you can expect from this Connecticut legend in its new chapter:
Authenticity: Expect to find the same traditional, slow-smoked meats that made the original location famous. The focus remains on quality, low-and-slow cooking.
New Atmosphere: The new Vernon location has been specifically designed to accommodate a busy BBQ restaurant, offering a fresh, clean, and vibrant dining spot for patrons.
The Classics: The full menu of classics is back. Don't miss the chance to try the Beef Brisket, the full or half-rack of ribs, or the BBQ Clucker. For a real taste of the South, try the Hot Texas Sausage or the Lone Star Beer Battered Catfish.
Community Hub: Little Mark's is set to once again become a local hub, a place where families and friends gather to enjoy great food and a welcoming environment. Its opening, alongside other new businesses in Vernon, signifies a vibrant new era for the town's commercial scene.
The return of Little Mark's Big BBQ & Grill is a major win for Connecticut's culinary landscape. Under the continued leadership of George Giotsas, the restaurant is ready to create new memories while honoring the tradition of its "Mouth Waterin', Butt Kickin' BBQ" legacy for years to come. Be sure to visit the new location soon to experience the comeback everyone is talking about.
Detail Author:
- Name : Laney Jacobs III
- Username : gillian.watsica
- Email : acrist@hirthe.com
- Birthdate : 1971-07-14
- Address : 124 Lowe Fort Apt. 207 Haltown, MT 30531-0804
- Phone : 534.843.3656
- Company : Batz, Hodkiewicz and Schamberger
- Job : Homeland Security
- Bio : Consectetur sequi labore nostrum enim. Voluptate deserunt sunt vitae. Maxime aperiam quo maxime id est.
Socials
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/koepp1989
- username : koepp1989
- bio : Qui non nihil rem cum. Velit ea praesentium animi pariatur a.
- followers : 5273
- following : 2790
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/koepp2010
- username : koepp2010
- bio : Ab natus sed voluptas dolores natus. Iste qui praesentium ut dicta.
- followers : 4147
- following : 2099
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/earlene3448
- username : earlene3448
- bio : Doloribus iste est maiores est.
- followers : 1248
- following : 1332
