Queen’s BBQ owners Anya and Titus Queen
For months, folks strolling down N. 3rd Street in Harrisburg have been tempted by a sign: “Coming Soon: Queen’s BBQ.”
Now, the wait is over—sort of.
The doors are open but only for sampling. It will be at least a month before the last touches and inspections are complete at the barbecue and soul food restaurant.
“This is what we love to do,” said Titus Queen, who operates the snug eatery with his wife, Anya. “We love to help people. We love to feed people.”
If you have a good memory, you may recall that Queen’s was open for a hot minute in 2018 only to close quickly due to a dispute involving their sublease. For awhile, the couple then managed the nearby Subway sandwich shop at the corner of N. 3rd and Forster streets, which has now closed.
The Queens now are putting all their efforts into getting locals hooked on their pulled pork, ribs, brisket, soups and mac and cheese as they prepare to open for good.
“Everything was stripped inside, so we had to replace and replenish everything,” said Titus, who worked for Applebee’s for a decade and as a baker in the state Capitol.
They did much of the work themselves, and other improvements were made from donations or traded for food, said Anya.
The couple is now eating away at the final $1,000 or so that they need to raise before they can officially open. So, the Queens hope you’ll stop by, sample their food and make a donation for the cause.
“The community has been very good to us so far,” Anya said. “We’re excited to get to a point where we’re finally open, and you can buy our food.”
Queen’s BBQ & Southern Cuisine is located at 912 N. 3rd St., Harrisburg. They’re open Tuesday through Friday and Sunday.
Update: Queen’s now has officially opened. For more information, visit their website.
Lunch After Subway
If you’re a state worker lamenting the passing of the Subway franchise at N. 3rd and Forster streets, you’re in luck. There are several great (um, much better), locally owned alternatives within a block or two for your sub needs.
Aleco’s, 714 N. 3rd St.: Known for the pizza, but also has terrific sandwiches, soups and, my personal favorite, the big salad.
Jackson House, 1004 N. 6th St.: They may boast the best burger in town, but they also have huge and delicious subs.
Keystone Restaurant, 1000 N. 3rd St.: Known for their breakfast fare, but don’t overlook their many other options, including tasty and affordable sandwiches.
Old Town Deli: 512 N. 3rd St.: I’m a big fan of their wraps, but they can turn almost any sandwich into a sub.
Roxy’s Cafe, 274 North St.: All the diner staples you could want.
