Moo’s BBQ to close on Nov. 30 after owner’s passing

Moo’s BBQ, a cherished locally-owned restaurant in Newton, announced in a Facebook post on Nov. 7 it will be permanently closing its doors at the end of the month. The announcement came more than two weeks after founder Jeremy Biondi died of a two-year battle with a rare autoimmune disease.

Jeremy died at his home at the age of 48 on Oct. 22.

In a Facebook post from Jeremy’s wife, Nicole, their kids and the entire Moo’s crew, they thanked the community for “making Jeremy’s dream come true.” It was an honor and a privilege, they said, to serve the Newton community for all these years. Moo’s has been serving its award-winning barbecue since 2014.

Moo’s BBQ’s burgers have made the Top 10 Best Burgers in Iowa list multiple times by the Iowa Beef Industry Council and Iowa Cattlemen’s Association.

“It was Jeremy’s faith and trust in God that led him to open Moo’s BBQ, and it kept him going no matter what barriers and difficulties he faced along the way,” the Facebook post said. “Jeremy was forever grateful for his loyal and supportive customers whom he credited for pulling him through some tough times.”

The family and crew added “it was not lost on Jeremy that his incredible staff, family and friends played a vital role in his success as well.”

Knowing the restaurant will be closing, customers have been showing up in droves. On multiple occasions the restaurant has announced it has sold out of food items, and at times early in the dining hours. Moo’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The restaurant will be closed on Nov. 24 for Thanksgiving.

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com