Furious Q’s BBQ Smoked to Perfection
by Ariel Carmona Jr.
July,2005
Nestled inside the Grand Inn bar located between Cypress and San Bernardino in Covina, Furious Q BBQ takes pride in making the best barbecue in the San Gabriel Valley. California native Stephen Coulter, owner of Furious Q has been crafting his grilling skills since the late 80s.
“My southern hospitality and my cooking skills come from the South” Coulter said. He was cooking on college campuses back in the 70s and always got a great response, especially from his special sauce which includes a key ingredient from the island of Jamaica.
Coulter added, “I t was suggested by friends and family after tasting my BBQ, that I open my own business,” while wearing his award winning BBQ t-shirt and reminiscing about the origin of the business. “I had my own booth and served barbeque for four years at the San Dimas Market Place and also at the Big Kaboom 4th of July show at the L.A. County Fair,” Coulter said while pointing out he was awarded the Certificate of Excellence at the first and second annual Lawry’s Rib Cook-Off. “I like to see the people enjoy the food they purchase,” said Coulter, who indicated he has been at his current location for nearly a year. This upcoming Labor Day will mark his one year anniversary.
In fact, during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, his big sellers are deep fried and smoked turkeys and, according to Coulter, he caters New Year’s Eve parties where his ribs are a big hit. “The Trip Tip Beef Dip, which is smoked to perfection with red oak and pecan wood, is the house favorite and I also serve shrimp, fish and other alternatives for those who do not eat meat,” he said.
“This is a nice environment, the patrons here at the Grand are some of the nicest people and the Grand Inn was recently voted as one of the friendliest bars in the San Gabriel Valley,” Coulter said.
The Grand Inn offers a dimly lit bar area and pool table and on this particular afternoon, a group of regulars could be seen enjoying their food and drinks under the flicker of a nearby TV set while anticipating another summer weekend. The bar holds darts, pool, and video golf tournaments on specific nights of the week and karaoke on Thursdays.
The low-key, friendly Coulter is serious about his barbecue and enjoys the feedback he receives from his costumers. He once had a lady enjoy the food so much, she offered to marry him. Other big sellers and customer favorites include home made sweet potato pie and peach cobbler desserts.
Furious BBQ was founded in 1992 and is open Tuesday-Friday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and from noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Curbside service is also available. For more information about catering special events or to visit, call (626) 806-4173 or visit www.FuriousQ.com.