Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Sparks.
Hi Joshua, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
The Ye Ole Butcher Shop has been in business since the ’70s. My dad, Jeff Sparks, bought the business in 1986. Back then the we were a small grocery store people in the community would come and get their groceries from. Some of those people are still coming into this day! When Dad moved the business in 1995, he started making sandwiches and BBQ for the police officers and people that came in. Then slowly over time, those sandwiches turned into burgers, fries, and Fried Pies! Now we have expanded even further into caterings, festivals, and even wedding cakes! The pies, cakes, cookies, and wedding cakes are made by Kaitlyn Sparks (Sister) and Jerri Sparks (mom). They call themselves TillyMamas Bakery!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There are always tough times in businesses. The Butcher Shop was in tough shape when Mom and Dad bought it. The Shop really needed new ideas and that’s exactly what they had!
Both moves in 1995 and 2009 were tough on the shop and the family. But every time our loyal and amazing customers showed up every day with support!
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The Ye Ole Butcher Shop is most known for being a real butcher shop and a Burger joint!
At least 2-3 times a week we hear “wow!!! I never knew we could eat here! I thought it was just a meat market!”
We have customers that come in for specifically one thing. Maybe it’s the pies, deer sausage, Buffalo steaks, Ribeye steaks, or a Buffalo burger! We do our best to keep everything in the case!
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
Downtown Plano is the best. It has that old-time feel. I’d have to say the best time of year here is spring. It’s not too hot yet the trees are blooming and Georgia’s farmers market down the street has all their flowers in! It’s a beautiful time and I hope y’all get to come see it one time! To quote a local Texas favorite Eleven Hundred Springs “When it’s springtime in Texas always brings a smile. Where lots of good people have good fun, they do it Texas style!”
Least favorite?? Not many to pick from but I’d say too many apartments.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Yeolebutchershop.com
- Instagram: @Yeolebutchershop_tx
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yeolebutcher.shop
Our first location
2nd location
Image Credits
The Butcher Shop
