New socially-distant, BBQ-focused food tour experience launches

RVA BBQ Tours has created a unique experience that is the first of its kind in the nation. The startup offers the only socially distant food tour focused exclusively on barbecue.

The tours allow attendees to travel in their own cars, led by a guide, and caravan to restaurants across the region. Each stop includes a generous portion of barbecue and sides to sample. A podcast interview with the restaurant’s pitmaster can be downloaded to listen to during travel time.

The new business is the brainchild of entrepreneurs Greg Hofbauer and Ryan Martin. The duo met through a mutual friend and shared a passion for Richmond’s food scene. They had been working on launching this project since last year and adjusted the concept when the pandemic began.

 “It’s important for people to feel comfortable and safe and this tour provides them with that option as it follows COVID-19 guidelines,” Martin said. “Everyone is looking for a special experience right now and this tour offers a unique opportunity for families and food lovers.”

Three off-the-beaten-path restaurants are currently featured on the Saturday flagship tour which lasts approximately two and a half hours. Private group tours for parties and corporate outings are also available.

Both Martin and Hofbauer share a background in business ownership. Martin was the founder of Pie restaurant in the fan and Hofbauer runs web design firm Hofbauer Consulting in addition to teaching entrepreneurship for VCU Arts.

“There is definitely a killer barbecue scene in Richmond. We want to put our city on the BBQ map and known as the East Coast Memphis or Kansas City.” Hofbauer said.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.rvabbqtours.com and are priced $59 per adult, $25 per child aged 11-17, and free for children 10 and under.