Fort Worth barbecue pitmaster J.W. Robinson, who was a consistent presence at Robinson’s Bar-B-Que on East Berry Street, died July 27, the restaurant announced on Facebook. He was 78 years old.
“It is with deep sadness we share the passing of Our Dad, known by many names such as Fort Worth BBQ Pitmaster, Doc, Pops, Brother or simply Mr. Robinson,” his family wrote in the post. “He served his country, family and been a pillar in this community for over forty years with grace and always a smile.
“As the long time owner of Robinsons BBQ it will never be the same without him, but His name, reputation, his love for people and his legacy of flavor and fellowship will live on forever.”
Robinson co-founded Robinson’s Bar-B-Que in 1985 at 1028 E. Berry St. near Interstate 35W. The restaurant is well-known for its Kansas City-style barbecue — sweeter than most Texas barbecue, with a different rub — which he learned while working at Gates Bar-B-Q in Kansas City.
“It was the closest thing in Texas to KC’s Gates Bar-B-Q, and served some of the city’s best BBQ chicken ever,” the Star-Telegram’s Bud Kennedy wrote upon learning news of Robinson’s passing…