How Templeton’s Barbeque Turned a Hobby Into a Sparta Favorite

For Josh Templeton, barbecue started as a hobby — something learned piece by piece through trial, error, and long hours around a smoker. Today, that same passion fuels Templeton’s Barbeque, a family-owned operation that has become a steady presence in Sparta’s local food scene.

What began with a borrowed smoker and a simple tent setup has grown into a full-time business serving customers across the community, with a reputation built on consistency and care.

Templeton’s Barbeque has operated as a local food trailer and catering business since May 2015, offering smoked meats and homemade sides. But the foundation of the business stretches back even further — to Templeton’s high school years, when he first developed an interest in barbecue and began teaching himself the craft.

“My parents bought me a backyard smoker, and I just started learning,” Templeton said. “I watched videos, tried different recipes, and figured things out as I went.”