Chris Lilly Bbq Net Worth (Updated 2026).

Chris Lilly, a name now synonymous with barbecue, didn’t always have a pitmaster title. His journey began in the late 1980s, working in his family’s restaurant, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, in Decatur, Alabama. Here, he learned the art of slow-cooking meats and developed a passion for the craft.

Lilly’s fame started to simmer in the early 1990s when he began competing in barbecue competitions. His unique recipes, inspired by his family’s legacy and his own culinary flair, started turning heads. His big break came in 1996 when he won the prestigious Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. This victory launched him into the national spotlight and set the stage for his future success.

Chris Lilly BBQ’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Chris Lilly’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This renowned pitmaster and restaurateur has built his wealth through his successful career in the barbecue industry.

Career

Chris Lilly is a celebrated pitmaster and the owner of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, a legendary barbecue restaurant in Decatur, Alabama. He has won numerous awards, including multiple World Championships in Memphis in May, and has been featured in various media outlets. Lilly is also a cookbook author and a sought-after speaker in the barbecue community.

Other Ventures

In addition to his restaurant, Lilly has ventured into product development. He has his own line of barbecue sauces and rubs, sold under the Big Bob Gibson brand. He also offers consulting services to help other barbecue businesses improve their operations and recipes.

Assets

Lilly’s primary asset is his stake in Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, which he co-owns with his family. The restaurant, established in 1925, is a historic landmark and a significant contributor to Lilly’s net worth. He also owns his brand of barbecue products and has equity in any ventures he consults for.

Annual Income

Chris Lilly’s annual income is primarily derived from the profits of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q and sales of his barbecue products. His consulting services also contribute to his income. While the exact figures are not publicly disclosed, industry estimates suggest his annual income could be in the range of $300,000 to $500,000.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Chris Lilly Bbq

Frequently Asked Questions about Chris Lilly Bbq

1. What is Chris Lilly’s net worth?

Chris Lilly’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.

2. How old is Chris Lilly?

Chris Lilly was born on December 15, 1967, making him 54 years old.

3. Where is Chris Lilly from?

Chris Lilly is from Decatur, Alabama.

4. What is Chris Lilly’s profession?

Chris Lilly is a pitmaster, restaurateur, and author, known for his expertise in barbecue.

5. How did Chris Lilly get started in barbecue?

Chris Lilly started his barbecue journey at the age of 12 when he began cooking for his family. He later honed his skills at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, where he eventually became the pitmaster.

6. What is Chris Lilly’s signature dish?

Chris Lilly is famous for his white barbecue sauce and his Alabama-style barbecue, which includes dishes like pulled pork, ribs, and chicken.

7. Does Chris Lilly have any books?

Yes, Chris Lilly has written two cookbooks: “Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ Book” and “Peace, Love, & Barbecue.”

8. Where can I find Chris Lilly’s recipes?

You can find Chris Lilly’s recipes in his cookbooks, on his website (bigbobgibson.com), and on various food websites and blogs that have featured his recipes.

9. Does Chris Lilly have any restaurants?

Yes, Chris Lilly is the owner and pitmaster of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, which has locations in Decatur and Lynchburg, Alabama.

10. What awards has Chris Lilly won?

Chris Lilly has won numerous awards for his barbecue, including the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational Barbecue and the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. He was also inducted into the Barbecue Hall of Fame in 2018.