Charcoal Chef

03/30/2026

I know that by now everyone has learned that the Chef has been officially sold and will open as BBQ Americana within the next few months.
I hope that all my devoted customers will be patient and give the new owners a try. It won't be the same, but time marches on and I know Jeff and Nicole will be a great addition to Woodbury. Their other restaurants have been very well received. Be sure to look for their opening and stop in to meet them.
I want to thank all of our loyal customers and most of all my fantastic staff for almost 70 years in business. I am always happy to see people that I know from work while I am around town now that I am retired and have the time to enjoy myself. My family could not have gotten as far as we did without the support of Woodbury and all the surrounding area. Again, I thank all the customers who have come through our door and all the staff (past & present) I miss you all!
Raise a glass with a Chef style drink and remember all the good times. I hope we have many more to celebrate.
Thank You all!
- Judy Doran

01/17/2026

11/03/2025

Elvis has left the building.

11/03/2025

Cheers to Bud Neal for being the very first customer in 1956 and the very last in 2025!

Thank you everyone who supported us.

10/31/2025

The woman, the myth, the next legend : Judy!
The person for whom this legacy continued. She picked up when Vee could not and made us all proud.
I am sure her parents, where it all began, are the most proud right now!

But, all great things need to come to an end and today is the day!
Come in for one last hurrah at the Charcoal Chef, we are open till 3 pm.

For those inquiring minds, no - unfortunately we have yet to find a buyer. We had hope. We still have hope.

For now, cheers to Judy’s retirement! Cheers to everyone a happy and healthy and successful next adventure. It was a great ride. 😎🎶❤️

10/30/2025

The Legend of the Charcoal Chef is half of where it started, Vee. I believe we honored her well with all we have done.

2 days left. Today and tomorrow 8am to 3pm.
We look forward to seeing you one last time.

10/29/2025

We have truly been blessed with customers and staff that are like family (or ARE family :) ).
Cheers to everyone’s next adventure!

3 days left!
Come see us Today, Thursday, & Friday 8am to 3pm.

10/28/2025

The car & wagon are gone but their spirt and love of a good drink live on. The time is getting short, come in for lunch & well wishes. 3 more days.
We are open Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday 8am to 3pm.

10/27/2025

There are 4 days left.
Come on in Today, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 8am to 3pm to celebrate with us.

10/24/2025

We are open today, tomorrow, & Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday next week 8a to 3p.