Kehde’s BBQ stands as a beacon of family tradition and barbecue excellence in the heart of Sedalia, tracing its origins back to 1955 when Ed Kehde first ventured into the restaurant scene with a Dog N’ Suds establishment. The venture took a distinctive turn towards barbecue when Ed’s son, John Kehde, returned from service and brought with him a profound passion for barbecue—a love deeply rooted in his family’s history. This pivot not only reshaped the business’s trajectory but also laid the foundation for what would become a beloved, multi-generational family enterprise.

From its humble beginnings, Kehde’s BBQ has grown under the careful stewardship of the Kehde family, with the mantle of leadership smoothly transitioning from Ed to John, and then to Roger, the third generation. Each generation has infused the business with fresh energy while safeguarding the ‘Kehde Standard’ of quality and passion for barbecue. Today, Roger continues this legacy alongside his son, Lakin, marking the involvement of the fourth generation. With Roger’s grandchildren already poised to carry this tradition forward, Kehde’s BBQ stands as a testament to the enduring nature of family, passion, and the art of barbecue.

Indeed, the story of Kehde’s BBQ is more than a tale of culinary success; it’s a chronicle of generational stewardship, where the flames of passion for barbecue are stoked by each new generation. The commitment of the Kehde family transcends the mere preparation of food, embodying a deeply held belief in the power of shared meals to foster community connection. As Kehde’s BBQ looks towards the future, it does so with the anticipation of further generational involvement, ensuring that the legacy of Ed Kehde and his progeny will continue to thrive, bringing warmth and delectable barbecue to the hearts and tables of Sedalia’s residents for many years to come.

As Kehde’s BBQ gears up to embrace the future with the potential involvement of a fifth generation, the local community and barbecue enthusiasts alike can look forward to experiencing the unmatched flavors and familial warmth that have defined this establishment for nearly seven decades. Kehde’s BBQ is not just a restaurant; it’s a home away from home for many, a place where the legacy of quality, community, and delicious barbecue is preserved and cherished by the Kehde family and savored by every patron. In a world of constant change, the enduring presence and ethos of Kehde’s BBQ offer a comforting touchstone of continuity and community spirit.