Bubba’s Q BBQ: From Shark Tank to a $16 Million Success Story
Bubba’s Q BBQ soared from Shark Tank to $16M in sales, but is it still thriving? Here’s what happened after the show.
Bubba’s Q BBQ took the Shark Tank stage with an innovative twist on traditional ribs: fully deboned baby back ribs. The idea came from former NFL player Al “Bubba” Baker, who wanted to make eating ribs less messy without compromising the flavor.
What happened next was one of Shark Tank’s most lucrative deals. Partnering with Daymond John, Bubba’s Q BBQ skyrocketed from $154,000 in sales to a staggering $16 million in just three years.
Founder Profile: Who’s Behind Bubba’s Q BBQ?
Al “Bubba” Baker made a name for himself as a defensive lineman in the NFL before venturing into the food industry. A lifelong barbecue lover, Bubba learned the art of cooking from his Uncle, “Daddy Jr.” However, it was his wife Sabrina’s dislike for the messiness of traditional ribs that sparked the idea for his deboned baby back ribs.
After years of perfecting the technique, he launched Bubba’s Q BBQ with his daughter, Brittani Bo Baker, in 2009. However Bubba’s Q BBQ’s founders, Al “Bubba” Baker, and Brittani Bo Baker, net worth is unknown as of 2025.
The Shark Tank Pitch: A Winning Deal
Bubba entered Shark Tank in Season 5, seeking a $300,000 investment for 15% equity, valuing the company at $2 million. The unique concept impressed the Sharks, leading to a bidding war. Kevin O’Leary offered $300,000 for 49% equity, but Bubba opted for a more favorable deal with Daymond John, $300,000 for 30% of the company. Daymond saw immense potential in the patented process and Bubba’s passion.
After securing the deal, Bubba’s Q BBQ saw an immediate sales surge, with website traffic and social media engagement skyrocketing.
Bubba’s Q BBh on Shark Tank (Quick Info Card)
| Product | Deboned baby back ribs |
| Episode | Season 05 Episode 11 |
| Founders | Al “Bubba” Baker, Brittani Bo Baker |
| Asked for | $300,000 in exchange for 15% |
| Company name | Bubba’s Q BBQ |
| Final deal | $300,000 in exchange for 30% |
| Shark | Daymond John |
| Location | South, Riverview, FL |
Post-Shark Tank Growth & Sales Boom
With Daymond John’s mentorship and strategic partnerships, Bubba’s Q BBQ expanded rapidly. The biggest breakthrough came with a contract from CKE Restaurants (Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s), leading to a massive order of 1 million pounds of ribs. The company’s boneless ribs also made their way to major grocery chains, further boosting sales. Over three years, revenue surged from $154,000 to $16 million, solidifying Bubba’s Q BBQ as one of Shark Tank’s greatest success stories.
Challenges & Business Lessons
Despite its initial success, Bubba’s Q BBQ faced operational and scaling challenges. The patented process required meticulous execution, making mass production difficult. Additionally, competition in the barbecue industry was fierce. However, Bubba and his team remained resilient, leveraging brand partnerships and online sales to sustain growth.
The End of Bubba’s Q BBQ Restaurant
While the product side of Bubba’s Q BBQ flourished, the restaurant in Avon, Ohio, struggled. After 13 years in business, the restaurant closed its doors in 2019. Bubba, however, saw this as an opportunity to focus entirely on expanding retail and distribution, ensuring the brand’s continued success.
How Much Did Daymond John Make?
Daymond John’s investment in Bubba’s Q BBQ turned out to be one of his most profitable Shark Tank deals. With a 30% stake, his earnings from the company’s $16 million sales surge would have been substantial. Given an estimated 10% yearly growth rate, Bubba’s Q BBQ’s 2025 valuation stands at approximately $17.6 million.
Conclusion
Bubba’s Q BBQ exemplifies how passion, innovation, and the right business partnership can turn a simple idea into a multimillion-dollar empire. From Shark Tank to national grocery shelves, Al “Bubba” Baker’s journey serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs everywhere. While the restaurant closed, the Bubba’s Q BBQ brand lives on, proving that adaptability and perseverance are the key ingredients to lasting success.
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