SEBASTIAN — Woody’s Bar-B-Q in Sebastian marks 25 years of slow-smoked success with a full-day celebration on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., inviting the community to join in the milestone.
During the event, customers can enjoy:
- 25% off menu items (excludes alcohol)
- $2.50 domestic drafts, wine & well mixed drinks
- First 25 customers receive a $25 gift certificate (25 at 11 am & 25 at 5:00 pm)
Opened in March 2001 as a franchise investment, the Sebastian location started with Roger Birt and a hands-on partner. In 2014, when that partner retired for health reasons, Roger and his wife, Kathy, stepped in to run daily operations.
Drawing on Roger’s finance and real estate background — including ownership of a successful commercial and industrial real estate company — and Kathy’s expertise in restaurant operations, hospitality and property management, the couple grew the spot into the top-performing location in the Woody’s franchise.
Their approach focuses on food quality, consistency, superior customer service and strong expense management. The location has earned repeated praise from the chain’s corporate office, including top honors in 2024.
Roger emphasizes fixing any problems promptly. “We will do all we can to make it right. Just let us know before you leave so we have the opportunity to fix it,” he said. Signs with this message appear throughout the restaurant.
Kathy stresses welcoming every guest. “Being acknowledged really matters to me. I always keep in mind how I want to feel, regardless if I’m a guest or a customer (I feel like the two are the same) when I walk through the door—and that’s exactly the experience I want to give to others, whether they’re walking into my home or my restaurant.”
Staff
The couple credits much of their success to a loyal staff. General Manager Tony Wright, a military veteran, has been with the Sebastian team since 2001 and started with the franchise in 1991. Other long-time members include Alison, Carly, Nick, Justin, Adrian, Christine, Jessy and Alyssa. Alyssa, who began as a teenager in the early 2000s, rose to lead server and manager. Kathy says Alyssa can handle nearly any role on short notice. Many employees have stayed for 3+ years, demonstrating a positive culture.
Family
Family plays a central role. The Birts’ daughter, Katie, moved to Sebastian full-time four years ago and works as a bartender and manager. Known for her honest, charismatic and witty style, she has built a loyal following while continuing the family’s focus on consistency, service and cost control. Katie’s teenage daughter, Ryane, helps as a takeout cashier.
Beyond business, the Birts live in Sebastian and value community involvement. They support children, schools, athletic programs, the homeless, local nonprofits and more. They belong to the Sebastian Exchange Club and the Sebastian River Area Chamber of Commerce.
Signature menu items include baby back ribs, smoked pulled pork, Texas beef brisket, barbecued chicken, Angus burgers, catfish, prime rib, smoked wings and homemade desserts. The restaurant also hosts trivia nights and paint-and-sip events, offers catering, and runs specials like an all-day 2-for-1 happy hour.
Through faith, family, dedicated staff and deep community relationships, Roger and Kathy Birt have built more than a restaurant — they have created a lasting Sebastian legacy.
