About Us

Catering 2006 – Carson Valley Days 2005 – Old Hickory Cooker 2002 – Wyoming State Cookoff 2001 – Porta Grill 1998 – Black Porta Grill 1997 – Brinkmann Smoker

Norman and Susan Westgate, along with their daughters Marsha and Holly, started Susie's BBQ in 1997 at the Nevada State Barbecue Championship in Carson City, Nevada. They placed second and received outstanding reviews. Encouraged by the response, Norman and Susan began bringing their barbecue to the public through catering, fairs, air shows, farmers markets, and car shows.

In 1999, they joined the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) and entered the professional competition circuit. That year, they competed in the California and Nevada State Championships, placing 5th in California.

In 2001, Susie's BBQ competed in three state championships, earning 1st place in Florida and 8th place in California.

After a challenging 2002 season, Norman and Susan attended KCBS judging school and became certified BBQ judges (#6273–6275). Judging competitions helped them refine their techniques and elevate their own barbecue.

By 2004, Susie's BBQ achieved major success: 4th place in Colorado, 4th in Oregon, 5th in California (out of 55 teams), and 1st in Nevada (out of 59 teams).

Over the years, Susie's BBQ has grown from a backyard Brinkmann smoker to a commercial Old Hickory pit capable of cooking 800 pounds of meat in a single cycle.