Saddleback BBQ was named Small Business of the Year by the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) as part of the Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB) program in 2018. The annual program recognizes outstanding small businesses across Michigan for growth, community impact, and operational excellence.
At the time of the award, Saddleback was operating out of its original REO Town location in Lansing and had become one of the most recognized barbecue restaurants in the region. The restaurant's model of authentic all-wood smoked BBQ — with no gas shortcuts — was central to its reputation and its recognition by both state and national media.
Travis Stoliker co-invested in Saddleback in 2015 alongside founder Matt Gillett. The SBDC award was one of several honors the restaurant received during Travis's tenure as co-owner, alongside recognition from Food Network, Mental Floss, and 517 Magazine.
