Cousins’ Bar-B-Q is the epitome of a family business. The restaurant, located at 4334 N. Newstead (at Carter), was started by two cousins, Ken Givens and LaVal Vail, and their significant others, Shareece Shaver and Marie Vail.
The cousins decided to open up a bar-b-q restaurant because they knew people in St. Louis are always looking for good Q.
“People always say it is hard to find good bar-b-q in the St. Louis area,” Givens said.
The cousins financed the business, which opened in March, though most of the recipes are by LaVal’s wife, Marie. The cousins got their all-important grill from Bubba Grills in Georgia, which was recommended by a neighbor.
Cousins’ Bar-B-Q has its origins in economic adversity. When Givens was laid off, the family decided to open up a restaurant that would later help the community. It has hired about 10 individuals from the North Side neighborhood.
Givens already knew some aspects of how to open a restaurant, but their plans were helped along by his lawyers, Appleton Pottle Attorneys at Law. Robert O. Appleton and others at the firm advised Givens and family how to do the legal side of the business.
“It’s hard to get a business especially in these times,” Appleton said. “This restaurant is a great addition to the neighborhood.”
Though he could be expected to speak well of a client, Appleton said the new restaurant has what it takes to succeed.
“I think the bar-b-q is excellent, the staff is friendly and they’re efficient,” Appleton said.
Givens suggest that prospective entrepreneurs come up with a business plan and avoid becoming discouraged when trying to set up a business.
“People have good ideas but do not have the means of financing,” Givens said. “Stay focused, and get help with all the paperwork.”
Givens is looking for Cousins’ Bar-B-Q to grow and open multiple locations throughout the area in the future.
“Our whole thing is the customer being straight with us. We want to carry a good name,” Givens said.
One thing he is certain he has on his side: demand.
“Everybody’s got to eat,” Givens said.
Cousins’ Bar-B-Q, 4334 N. Newstead, is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m.–10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.–1a.m.; and Sunday 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Call (314) 382-0909.
