Mission BBQ is a fast-casual restaurant chain that specializes in American barbecue cuisine. With locations across the United States, Mission BBQ has become a popular destination for barbecue lovers. But what time does Mission BBQ actually close each day? Here is a comprehensive guide to Mission BBQ’s operating hours and closing times.

An Introduction to Mission BBQ

Founded in 2002 by Bill Kraus and Steve Newton, Mission BBQ was created with the goal of serving authentic barbecue to the masses. The first Mission BBQ opened in Glen Burnie, Maryland in 2011. Since then, the chain has expanded to over 100 locations across 20 states.

Mission BBQ aims to honor service members, first responders, police officers and firefighters with their service-oriented dining experience. Each day, the restaurants host a daily American patriotic tribute by playing the national anthem. The restaurants also showcase local artifacts from police, fire stations, military bases and more.

The menu features traditional barbecue options like brisket, pulled pork, chicken, sausage, ribs and burnt ends. Sides include baked beans, mac and cheese, corn bread and coleslaw. Mission BBQ also serves American classics like burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads.

So with its patriotic mission and focus on American cuisine, many are curious – what time does Mission BBQ actually close down each day?

Typical Hours of Operation

Most Mission BBQ locations are open 7 days a week from 11AM to 9PM. This includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

However, these hours may vary slightly by specific location. Some restaurants open as early as 10AM, while others stay open an hour later until 10PM.

It’s always best to check your local Mission BBQ’s hours of operation on their website or Google listing. This ensures you arrive during business hours for dine-in or takeout.

Mission BBQ Closing Times

While opening hours may fluctuate, the typical closing time for most Mission BBQ restaurants is 9:00PM. Exceptions include:

Mission BBQ Westminster, MD – Closes at 10:00PM
Mission BBQ Colorado Springs, CO – Closes at 10:00PM
Mission BBQ Troy, MI – Closes at 10:00PM on Fridays and Saturdays
Mission BBQ Palm Coast, FL – Closes at 8:00PM on Sundays

Again, confirm closing times with your nearest location. Hours can change seasonally or due to COVID-19 restrictions. Missions BBQ aims to serve guests during normal dinner hours before closing up for the night.

Dine-In Cutoff Times

Mission BBQ stops accepting dine-in customers before the actual closing time. This is to allow time to serve any remaining guests in the restaurant before shutting down the kitchen.

The dine-in cutoff is typically 30 minutes before closing time. So for a 9:00PM closure, the restaurant stops seating guests at 8:30PM. Exceptions include:

Mission BBQ Bowie, MD – Stops dine-in at 8:45PM for a 9:00PM close
Mission BBQ Indianapolis, IN – Stops dine-in at 8:15PM for an 8:30PM close

Call ahead to check the dine-in cutoff times at your local Mission BBQ. This ensures you can enjoy a relaxed meal without feeling rushed before they close for the evening.

Takeout & Delivery Hours

Mission BBQ remains open for takeout and delivery orders until normal closing time, even after stopping dine-in service.

So if your local Mission BBQ closes at 9:00PM, takeout and delivery remains available until 9:00PM. You can order online, through the app or by phone.

Many Mission BBQs even partner with delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, Postmates, etc. This means you can enjoy their barbecue from the comfort of home until they lock the doors at night.

Just be aware of the 30 minute dine-in cutoff prior to closing. If you plan to pick up takeout inside, arrive with enough time to order and eat before the dine-in service ends.

Closing Hours on Special Occasions

Mission BBQ occasionally extends its standard closing hours for certain holidays or events. For example:

New Year’s Eve: Select locations remain open until 10:00PM or 12:00AM
Independence Day: Some restaurants stay open for late night barbecue on the 4th of July
Local Community Events: Closing times may be adjusted for concerts, festivals, etc.

Your best move is to call ahead or check Mission BBQ’s website around major holidays. They’ll announce any extended closing times to serve customers later into the night.

Certain Mission BBQ franchises with nearby stadiums or entertainment venues may also stay open later on event nights. This allows them to cater to crowds attending games, shows and performances in the area.

Reasonable Dining Times Before Closing

Mission BBQ aims to deliver fast, friendly service, even as closing time approaches. However, it’s common courtesy not to dine-in right before they close for the night.

Here are some reasonable dining times at Mission BBQ:

If closing at 9:00PM, arrive before 8:15PM
For a 10:00PM closure, arrive before 9:15PM
For an 8:00PM closure, arrive before 7:15PM

This gives you plenty of time to order, enjoy your meal and exit before the cutoff. Rushing to finish before closing time or staying past service can be frustrating for staff ready to go home.

Aim to arrive earlier in the dinner rush or choose takeout instead. You’ll have a more relaxed, enjoyable experience without the pressure of beating the clock.

Signaling Closing Time is Near

Mission BBQ begins signaling last call and closing time well before actually locking up. Here are some signs that they are ready to wrap up for the evening:

Stopping dine-in service – Around 30 minutes before closing, Mission BBQ will stop accepting dine-in customers to avoid overwhelming late diners. This is your cue the kitchen is soon closing.
Open Sign Off – Around 10-15 minutes before close, staff will turn off the neon “Open” sign out front. This indicates the restaurant will soon shut down.
Door Signs – Printed signs may be placed on the entrance stating the kitchen is closed or that only takeout is available until closing time.
Lights Dimming – With only 30-15 minutes left, lights may be dimmed or turned off completely to signal closing.
Music Volume Lowered – The patriotic soundtrack is turned down low as closing time nears.
Staff Cleaning – Employees deep cleaning dining areas, kitchen, etc. are signs they’re preparing to close.
Loitering Discouraged – With just a few minutes left, any lingering guests are encouraged to finish up and head out.

Being aware of these signals can help avoid an awkward rush at the end. Heed staff hints that Mission BBQ is ready to close, and you’ll stay on their good side.

Reasons for Closing Time

There are several important reasons Mission BBQ adheres to its established closing time each night:

Allows staff to properly clean and shut down kitchen appliances safely.
Provides time for employees to clean dining rooms, restrooms, etc. to high standards.
Enables the team to restock ingredients, utensils and other supplies for the next day.
Lets workers complete side work like rolling silverware, breaking down stations, taking out trash, etc.
Gives staff time to tally up registers, close out systems and prep for opening.
Allows employees to safely close up, arm security systems and exit together.
Provides reasonable hours for staff commuting home after late shifts.
Avoids incentivizing unprofitable late customers not worth staying open for.
Creates a consistent schedule so staff can expect to leave around the same time.
Limits energy costs of keeping the restaurant utility on late.

Adhering to a solid closing time enables efficient operations so the Mission BBQ crew can call it a day.

Conclusion

Mission BBQ locations across the U.S. typically close between 9:00-10:00PM depending on the franchise. Dine-in service ends 30 minutes before closing, but takeout remains available until they lock the doors. Mission BBQ also occasionally stays open later for holidays, community events or nearby entertainment. Checking your local store’s hours, and looking for signals like dimmed lighting, are the best ways to avoid staying too late. While diners might wish for a few more hours of brisket and baked beans, having reasonable closing times allows Mission BBQ’s hardworking staff to consistently end their shifts and head home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mission BBQ’s Closing Time

Mission BBQ fans often have questions about the restaurant’s hours of operation and closing times. Here are some frequently asked questions with detailed answers:

Q: Why does Mission BBQ close so early?

Mission BBQ locations typically close between 9:00-10:00PM. For a casual barbecue restaurant, this enables the staff to consistently wrap up dine-in service, tidy up and finish closing duties at a reasonable hour. It also aligns with when patrons typically finish dinner. Closing any later would incentivize customers to visit at inconsistent hours and keep staff there into the late night when business is slower. The 9:00 or 10:00PM closing time allows Mission BBQ to operate during peak dinner hours into the evening.

Q: Can I still order takeout when Mission BBQ stops dine-in service before closing?

Yes, Mission BBQ continues offering takeout and delivery until its actual closing time, even after stopping dine-in service 30 minutes early. You can order takeout inside until closing, as long as you don’t intend to dine-in past the cutoff time for seated meals. This enables guests who want Mission BBQ for a quick dinner or snack to place orders for pickup until the last minute.

Q: Why does my local Mission BBQ have different closing hours than others?

Some Mission BBQ franchises establish their own closing times based on the customer demand in that market. Late night crowds around sports stadiums or concert venues may cause a store to stay open an hour later. Slower suburban neighborhoods may encourage closing a bit earlier. The management sets hours at each Mission BBQ based on local factors while staying true to the brand’s service model. Core closing times are still generally aligned across locations, with minor variations by franchise.

Q: Can Mission BBQ remain open past closing time for special events?

For certain holidays, community happenings or large catering orders, Mission BBQ managers do have discretion to extend closing times as needed. However, they can’t make regular exceptions for everyday operations. Late night service must align with higher guest demand on those special occasions to be worth staying open additional hours. Guests should not expect extended hours daily, but rather on major holidays or events drawing bigger crowds.

Q: How late should I arrive if Mission BBQ closes at 9:00PM?

Arriving anytime after 8:15PM risks feeling rushed through your meal if Mission BBQ closes at 9:00PM. Aim to arrive before the 8:15PM mark to order, eat comfortably and exit by the time staff starts closing duties. Arriving too late interferes with closing tasks and incentivizes poor customer service trying to rush you out. Shoot for the prime early evening hours between 5:00-8:00PM instead for a relaxed barbecue experience.

Q: What happens if I stay past closing time at Mission BBQ?

Lingering too late past closing time at Mission BBQ is inconsiderate to exhausted staff and disrupts their ability to carry out closing tasks. If a customer refuses to leave by the actual closing hour, management may turn off lights, music and other signals indicating it’s time to vacate. In extreme cases of loitering, police may be called to escort you out for trespassing after business hours. To be respectful, heed closing time and exit promptly so employees can finish up and head home.

Q: Can Mission BBQ employees leave before the actual closing time if things are slow?

No, Mission BBQ staff are required to remain on duty until the restaurant’s official closing time, even if business is slow that night. This maintains adequate staffing levels until close in case of an unexpected rush. It also enables thorough shutdown procedures without cutting corners. Employees cannot arbitrarily close early just because they feel like going home sooner. Every guest expects service through posted closing times, so staff must stick it out.

Q: How do Mission BBQ employees let customers know closing time is near?

Subtle signals like turning off open signs, lowering music volume and dimming lights indicate Mission BBQ is approaching closing time. Staff may make announcements of a final call for any additional orders. They stop seating diners around 30 minutes before close. Displayed signs also reiterate kitchen and dine-in service is ending for the night. Friendly reminders from staff encourage lingering guests to wrap up and head out just before closing.

Q: Why can’t Mission BBQ just stay open later?

Staying open later than usual hours would disrupt staff scheduling. Employees work shifts planned around established opening and closing times. Extending hours suddenly forces staff to work additional hours unexpectedly. It also keeps them there late when few customers would actually take advantage of later hours. Sporadic extended hours also complicate closing procedures after shifts planned for certain times. Mission BBQ’s core hours allow for optimal staffing plans and customer volume.

How Mission BBQ Operates Leading Up to Closing Time

Running a smooth closing shift at Mission BBQ involves coordinated steps by management and employees. Here is an overview of standard operating procedures as Mission BBQ approaches closing time each night:

Two Hours Before Closing

The shift manager verifies scheduled staff are present and assigned to appropriate roles to handle the remaining dinner rush.
Front-of-house employees begin pre-bussing tables more frequently.
Staff check restrooms and takeout areas for tidiness as customer volume declines.
The kitchen begins transitioning from dinner entrees to a more limited late-night menu.
Employees start proactively re-stocking supplies needed for closing duties later on.

One Hour Before Closing

The manager makes a closing time announcement to any remaining dine-in customers.
Staff increases table touches to turn over seating for any waiting guests.
Workers double-check restroom cleanliness and take out trash cans if needed.
The kitchen staff consolidates usable ingredients and begins cleaning unused stations.
Bartenders simplify the bar setup, restocking key alcohol and glassware only.

Thirty Minutes Before Closing

Last call for dine-in service is announced. No new tables are seated.
Front staff shifts focus fully to bussing and turning tables.
The kitchen completely breaks down any stations not needed to fulfill existing orders.
Managers verify no additional food orders will be seated or taken for dine-in.
Any delivery service tablets are turned off to avoid incoming delivery orders.

Fifteen Minutes Before Closing

All dine-in guests must have existing food orders in progress.
Staff stops prompting guests to order items like dessert or drinks.
Workers do final sweeps through bathrooms and dining areas, collecting trash.
The kitchen scales down to one cook line for final ticket orders.
Bartenders count liquor bottles and cash registers in anticipation of closing.

Ten Minutes Before Closing

The doors are locked, and signage indicates takeout only.
Staff monitor dine-in guests and check for any last call drink or food orders.
Cooks consolidate ingredients not needed for final tickets to re-date and store.
The manager cues bussers to quickly flip vacated tables to prevent new seating.
Host staff brings out sign holders and closing time notices for display.

Five Minutes Before Closing

The manager officially announces the kitchen is now closed.
Cooks shut down appliances as orders are complete, allowing for cooldown.
Cashiers switch off online ordering systems and change signs to closed.
Bar, caf?? and fountain beverages are shut down and prepped for cleaning.
Workers maintain posted closing hours, but encourage remaining guests to finish up.

At Closing Time

All guests must have cleared out of the building and parking lot.
Front-of-house staff flips chairs up onto tables and sweeps floors.
Kitchen workers drain fryers, take out trash and complete detailed cleaning.
Employees restock condiments, silverware and other supplies for the opening shift.
Managers verify cash drawer amounts against system sales totals for the night.
Staff clocks out and sets security alarms before exiting and locking up.

How Guests Can Support a Smooth Closing Shift

Mission BBQ’s closing time procedures aim to efficiently serve the remaining guests while getting employees out on time. Here is how customers can promote an orderly and positive closing shift:

Respect posted dine-in cutoff times so kitchen isn’t overwhelmed with late orders. Come earlier in the evening instead.
Understand if menu options are limited near closing as kitchen winds down service.
Recognize staff hints like dimming lights that indicate it’s time to wrap up and depart.
Ask for all table needs at once instead of spacing out requests that keep staff returning.
Stack dishes and consolidate trash at your table to help bussers speed up.
If arriving close to closing, opt for takeout instead of dine-in to avoid a rushed meal.
Tip generously based on your original bill total, since closing staff has fewer tables.
When settling your check, let the server know if you need change back quickly to depart by close.
Thank staff and acknowledge their hard work and patience as a courteous guest.
After paying your bill, promptly gather your belongings and exit to allow table cleaning.
Follow staff guidance on exiting routes as certain doors may be locked already.
Understand lights off signals it’s time to go and not order more items.
Never argue or get confrontational if asked to leave at closing time.
Apologize if inadvertently staying past closing and exit as soon as possible.

By kindly supporting the closing staff, you’ll create goodwill

What Time Does Mission BBQ Close?