Zeb’s Bar-B-Q Indianapolis Barbecue Legend of 38th & Keystone
If you grew up in Indianapolis, chances are you remember the unmistakable smoke rising from the corner of 38th Street and Keystone Avenue. That was the home of Zeb’s Bar-B-Q, a humble shack that became a city landmark for barbecue lovers.
The Man Behind Zeb’s
Zeb’s was owned by William “Bill” L. Thomas, who took over the business in 1972. Under his care, Zeb’s became one of the most talked-about barbecue joints in Indianapolis. Locals didn’t just go for the ribs and hot links—they went for the experience. Thomas built a reputation not only as a pitmaster but also as a welcoming face in the neighborhood.
The Legendary Mambo Sauce
What really set Zeb’s apart was its signature Mambo (or Mumbo) sauce. Tangy, sweet, and smoky, this sauce became the stuff of local legend. Many who tasted it still compare every other barbecue sauce to Zeb’s, and it’s remembered in food blogs, articles, and even blues band names inspired by its flavor.
A Beloved Gathering Place
Through the 1970s, 80s, and beyond, Zeb’s was more than a restaurant—it was a gathering spot. The shack itself wasn’t fancy, but that never mattered. People came for the food, the atmosphere, and the tradition. Smoke pouring from the pit was like a signal that good eating was waiting inside.
The Legacy Today
Although Zeb’s Bar-B-Q eventually closed, its memory lingers. Indianapolis food lovers still talk about the corner shack, and many continue to search for recipes to replicate the famous Mambo sauce. Bill Thomas left a mark on the city’s food scene, and Zeb’s remains part of Indy’s culinary folklore. Legendary Sauce Recipe Below..... BJ
I knew Bill T very well, sauce was word (on time)! 70's lingo 😏
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