The Neelys, comprising Pat and Gina Neely, were once the undisputed kings and queen of the barbecue world. Their charismatic personalities, impeccable cooking skills, and undeniable chemistry made them a household name, thanks to their hit Food Network show “Down Home with the Neelys.” However, after the show ended its successful run, fans were left wondering what happened to this beloved couple. In this article, we will delve into the lives of the Neelys, exploring their current endeavors, personal struggles, and the impact they continue to have on the culinary world.
Background and Rise to Fame
Before we dive into what the Neelys are doing now, it’s essential to understand their background and how they rose to fame. Pat Neely, a Memphis native, grew up surrounded by the rich barbecue culture of the city. He learned the art of slow-cooking meats from his father and eventually opened his own barbecue restaurant, Neely’s Bar-B-Que, in 1988. Gina, on the other hand, was a talented cook in her own right, having learned from her mother and grandmother. The couple’s culinary talents and charming on-screen presence caught the attention of the Food Network, leading to the creation of “Down Home with the Neelys” in 2008.
Culinary Expertise and TV Success
The show was an instant hit, thanks to the Neelys’ authenticity, humor, and undeniable passion for Southern cuisine. Each episode featured the couple cooking up a storm in their Memphis kitchen, sharing family recipes, and exploring the rich culinary heritage of the South. Their TV success was not limited to “Down Home with the Neelys”; they also appeared on other popular Food Network shows, such as “Iron Chef America” and “The Best Thing I Ever Ate.”
Personal Struggles and Divorce
Despite their professional success, the Neelys’ personal life was not without its challenges. In 2014, after 20 years of marriage, Pat and Gina announced their divorce. The split was amicable, with both parties citing a desire to focus on their individual pursuits. The divorce was a shock to fans, who had grown to love the couple’s on-screen chemistry and warmth.
Current Endeavors
So, what are the Neelys doing now? After the divorce, both Pat and Gina continued to pursue their passions in the culinary world.
Pat Neely’s Ventures
Pat Neely has remained committed to his barbecue roots, expanding his restaurant empire to include several locations across the United States. He has also launched a line of barbecue sauces and seasonings, allowing fans to bring a taste of his famous ‘cue into their own homes. In addition to his culinary ventures, Pat has been involved in various charity initiatives, including working with the Memphis-based organization, Operation BBQ Relief, which provides meals to those in need during times of disaster.
Gina Neely’s Pursuits
Gina Neely, on the other hand, has focused on her own culinary brand, launching a line of spices and seasonings inspired by her Southern heritage. She has also authored several cookbooks, including “The Neelys’ Celebration Cookbook” and “Down Home with the Neelys.” Gina has been open about her personal struggles, including her experiences with depression and anxiety, using her platform to raise awareness and support for mental health initiatives.
Cooking and Television Appearances
Although they are no longer together, both Pat and Gina continue to make appearances on cooking shows and at food festivals. They have remained friends and continue to support each other’s endeavors, a testament to their enduring bond and mutual respect. In recent years, Pat has appeared on shows like “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and “Beat Bobby Flay,” while Gina has made guest appearances on “The Rachael Ray Show” and “Home & Family.”
Legacy and Impact
The Neelys’ impact on the culinary world cannot be overstated. They have inspired a new generation of chefs and home cooks to explore the rich flavors and traditions of Southern cuisine. Their commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients has helped to promote a more sustainable and responsible approach to cooking. Through their TV shows, cookbooks, and restaurants, the Neelys have shared their passion for food and community, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Neelys are still going strong, albeit in different capacities. Pat and Gina continue to pursue their individual passions, remaining true to their culinary roots while exploring new ventures and opportunities. Their enduring legacy is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and transcend challenges. As we look to the future, it will be exciting to see what’s next for these BBQ legends, and how they will continue to inspire and delight audiences with their signature blend of Southern charm, warmth, and delicious cuisine.
- Pat Neely’s barbecue sauces and seasonings are available online and in select stores.
- Gina Neely’s cookbooks, including “The Neelys’ Celebration Cookbook” and “Down Home with the Neelys,” can be found on Amazon and in major bookstores.
By following the Neelys’ journey, we are reminded that food has the power to bring people together, to comfort, to inspire, and to create lasting memories. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the Neelys will continue to play a significant role in shaping the culinary landscape, sharing their love of food and community with audiences around the world.
What happened to the Neelys’ BBQ restaurants?
The Neelys’ BBQ restaurants, which were a staple in the Memphis barbecue scene, closed their doors in 2013. The original location on East Parkway, which was opened by Jim Neely in 1980, was the first to close, followed by the other locations in the Memphis area. The closure was due to a combination of factors, including increased competition and rising operating costs. Despite their best efforts, the Neelys were unable to sustain the business and were forced to shut down.
The closure of the Neelys’ BBQ restaurants was a significant loss for the Memphis community, as they had been a beloved institution for over 30 years. However, the Neelys’ legacy lives on through their cookbooks, television shows, and other business ventures. Pat and Gina Neely, who took over the business from Jim Neely, have continued to be involved in the food industry, albeit in different capacities. They have written several cookbooks and have made appearances on food and cooking shows, sharing their recipes and expertise with a wider audience. Although the Neelys’ BBQ restaurants are no longer in operation, their impact on the Memphis barbecue scene and the culinary world at large remains.
What have Pat and Gina Neely been up to since their restaurant closed?
Since the closure of their restaurant, Pat and Gina Neely have remained active in the food industry. They have written several cookbooks, including “Down Home with the Neelys” and “The Neelys’ Celebration Cookbook”, which showcase their favorite recipes and cooking techniques. They have also made appearances on food and cooking shows, such as the Food Network’s “Down Home with the Neelys” and “Road Tasted with the Neelys”. Additionally, they have been involved in various culinary events and have given cooking demonstrations and classes. Through these endeavors, they have continued to share their passion for cooking and their expertise with a wider audience.
Pat and Gina Neely have also been focused on their personal lives and have been spending time with their family and friends. They have been enjoying their post-restaurant life and have been able to pursue other interests and hobbies. Gina Neely has been involved in various charity work and has been supporting local organizations in her community. Pat Neely has been enjoying his retirement and has been spending time on his favorite hobbies, including golf and travel. Overall, Pat and Gina Neely have been keeping busy and have been enjoying their life after the restaurant.
Are the Neelys still involved in the BBQ industry?
Although the Neelys are no longer operating their own BBQ restaurants, they are still involved in the BBQ industry. They have been making appearances at BBQ festivals and events, where they share their expertise and showcase their favorite recipes. They have also been involved in various BBQ-related projects, including cookbooks and television shows. Additionally, they have been supporting other BBQ pitmasters and restaurants, and have been helping to promote the art of BBQ cooking. Through these efforts, they have remained connected to the BBQ community and have continued to contribute to the industry.
The Neelys’ involvement in the BBQ industry is not limited to their personal appearances and projects. They have also been involved in various business ventures related to BBQ, including sauce and seasoning lines. Their BBQ sauce and seasonings are still widely available and are popular among BBQ enthusiasts. They have also been partnering with other companies to develop new BBQ-related products and services. Overall, the Neelys remain committed to the BBQ industry and continue to be involved in various aspects of it, even if they are no longer operating their own restaurants.
What is Jim Neely doing now?
Jim Neely, the founder of the Neelys’ BBQ restaurants, has been enjoying his retirement. After passing on the business to his nephews, Pat and Gina Neely, he was able to step back and focus on his personal life. He has been spending time with his family and friends and has been pursuing his hobbies and interests. He has also been involved in various charitable endeavors and has been giving back to his community. Although he is no longer actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the BBQ business, he remains a beloved figure in the Memphis community and is still widely respected for his contributions to the city’s BBQ scene.
Jim Neely’s legacy continues to be felt in the Memphis BBQ community, and his influence can still be seen in the many BBQ restaurants that have been inspired by his cooking style and techniques. He has been recognized for his contributions to the industry, including being inducted into the Barbecue Hall of Fame. Although he is no longer running the show, his impact on the BBQ world remains significant, and his name is still synonymous with delicious, authentic Memphis-style BBQ. The Neelys’ BBQ restaurants may be closed, but Jim Neely’s legacy lives on through the countless BBQ enthusiasts and pitmasters who have been inspired by his cooking.
Can I still buy Neelys’ BBQ sauce and seasonings?
Yes, Neelys’ BBQ sauce and seasonings are still widely available for purchase. Although the Neelys’ BBQ restaurants are no longer in operation, their line of BBQ sauces and seasonings continues to be popular among BBQ enthusiasts. The products are still being manufactured and distributed by the company, and they can be found in many grocery stores and online retailers. The sauces and seasonings are still made with the same secret blend of spices and ingredients that made the Neelys’ BBQ so famous, and they remain a staple in many BBQ pits and kitchens.
The Neelys’ BBQ sauce and seasonings have become a beloved brand in the BBQ industry, and they are still widely used by pitmasters and home cooks alike. The products have been praised for their rich, tangy flavor and their ability to add depth and complexity to a wide range of BBQ dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ pro or just starting out, the Neelys’ BBQ sauce and seasonings are a great addition to any BBQ arsenal. With their iconic flavor and rich history, it’s no wonder that the Neelys’ BBQ sauce and seasonings remain a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts.
Will the Neelys open another BBQ restaurant?
There have been rumors and speculation about the possibility of the Neelys opening another BBQ restaurant, but at this time, there are no concrete plans to do so. Pat and Gina Neely have been focused on their other business ventures and personal pursuits, and they have not announced any plans to reopen a BBQ restaurant. However, they have not ruled out the possibility of returning to the BBQ business in some capacity, and they have left the door open for future opportunities. Only time will tell if the Neelys will once again be serving up their famous BBQ to the public.
If the Neelys were to open another BBQ restaurant, it would likely be a significant event in the BBQ world. The Neelys’ BBQ restaurants were beloved institutions in the Memphis community, and their closure was deeply felt by BBQ enthusiasts. The possibility of a new Neelys’ BBQ restaurant would generate a lot of excitement and interest, and it would likely be a major draw for BBQ fans from all over. However, for now, there are no plans to reopen, and the Neelys are focusing on their other pursuits. Still, the possibility of a new Neelys’ BBQ restaurant remains a tantalizing prospect for those who love the Neelys’ brand of BBQ.
How can I stay up-to-date with the Neelys’ latest projects and endeavors?
To stay up-to-date with the Neelys’ latest projects and endeavors, you can follow them on social media or sign up for their newsletter. Pat and Gina Neely are active on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where they share updates about their latest cookbooks, television shows, and other business ventures. They also have a website where they post news, recipes, and other information about their activities. By following the Neelys on social media or signing up for their newsletter, you can stay informed about their latest projects and get a glimpse into their personal and professional lives.
Additionally, you can also check out the Neelys’ cookbooks and television shows to get a sense of their latest recipes and cooking techniques. Their cookbooks, such as “Down Home with the Neelys” and “The Neelys’ Celebration Cookbook”, are filled with delicious recipes and stories about their experiences in the kitchen. Their television shows, such as “Down Home with the Neelys” and “Road Tasted with the Neelys”, showcase their favorite recipes and cooking techniques, and offer a glimpse into their personalities and cooking styles. By staying connected with the Neelys through social media, their website, and their cookbooks and television shows, you can stay up-to-date with their latest projects and endeavors.