Speed Queen BBQ

07/13/2026

07/13/2026

We’re ready for you Milwaukee! Come visit today. We’re doing samples of new menu items to celebrate our 70th anniversary. Happy Monday!

07/12/2026

Don’t forget to stop by on Monday the 13th!

Have a safe weekend 🙂

07/08/2026

Thoughts on 70 years in business. Riley Jean Gillespie

As we near this monumental accomplishment, please reflect with me on everything that has brought Speed Queen Bar B Q Inc. to celebrate 70 years. If you are unaware, as a patron, an employee, a vendor, or even a visitor, you are part of a rare piece of not only Milwaukee history, but in my humble opinion, national history.
To set the scene, Speed Queen Bar B Q Inc. was established by a young black woman—a teenager in fact—in the 1950’s. Think about what was happening in the 1950’s. At that time, Jim Crow was in full effect. Rosa Parks made her stand (or more accurately, sit). Post-World War II, women are encouraged to be back in the home. Any available jobs to women are low paying clerical or nursing positions. Women are not allowed to hold bank accounts, secure loans, nor own property independently of a man. Anyone accused of being a communist sympathizer loses all credibility and standing in their community while being investigated.
Under these conditions, a black teenager who was born on a share cropping farm, rises to the occasion to build a legacy that withstands 70 years. Through loss, through recession, while celebrating joys and success, Betty Jean Gillespie survived and thrived.
A woman known for a striking smile, quick wit, and candor; she was extremely generous. She is survived by more than just children and grandchildren, but in people’s memory of a woman who could light up any room. Who encouraged others to be better. Who gave more than she got. As we celebrate 70 years, please take time to reflect on the most important thing—a legacy that a 19 year old with a huge heart and radiant smile dreamt up.
Thank you to everyone who has supported and continues to support Her Legacy. We are here because of her, but we stayed because of you.

07/06/2026

The restaurant known for pork shoulder, ribs and turkey is a landmark on the corner of 12th and Walnut.

07/06/2026

We’re one week out, Milwaukee! Come celebrate 70 years by visiting us and sampling new menu items on Monday, July 13th!

06/30/2026

Speed Queen will be celebrating 70 years. Come visit us Monday, July 13th to sample new menu items!

And don't forget to use this link to share your favorite menu items, favorite memories of Speed Queen, or favorite memories of Betty J Gillespie.

We look forward to seeing you there!

For our 70th anniversary we are putting together favorite stories from customers, community members, friends, family, and coworkers. Stay tuned for information for the event which will be released soon!

06/23/2026

Monday! July 13th! We’ll be celebrating 70 years by sampling new menu items. Come visit us!

06/06/2026

Mark your calendars! To celebrate our 70 year anniversary, we will host a sampling for new menu items.

Monday, July 13th come visit!

06/02/2026

For our 70th anniversary we are putting together favorite stories from customers, community members, friends, family, and coworkers. Stay tuned for information for the event which will be released soon!