Hard work always pays off, as Alex Nowotynski of The Badass BBQ is proof of. The mountain biking fanatic born and bred in Drinagh, who is gearing up for another busy season with his food truck, has expanded the business significantly since last chatting to West Cork People in 2023.
Alex learned the gourmet burger trade from the late Frankie Murphy of Frankie’s Badass Burgers and has been carrying on his legacy since 2018.
Now to meet high demand and ensure high output, the good-humoured burger aficionado has added a large catering trailer to the business. This setup has become crucial for larger events, such as the prestigious river rowing National Championships, the Munster Branch Regatta, and the Cork Regatta, all held at the National Rowing Centre in Inniscarra. Additionally, The Badass BBQ continues to cater to most of Ireland’s major mountain bike races, particularly in Wicklow, Wexford, Limerick, Cork, and Kerry.
Alex remains as passionate about mountain biking as ever, balancing both competing and catering at these events. This unique approach has caught the attention of two prominent companies –Deviate Cycles, a high-end mountain bike brand from Scotland, and RideMTB.ie, a Wexford-based bike dealer and suspension tuning service – both of which have now sponsored him and The Badass BBQ. Their logos proudly adorn the team’s uniforms, van, and food trailer.
The menu continues to evolve while keeping customer favourites intact. Signature burgers such as the Giant ‘Maximus’ and the ‘Gubbeen Smoked’ cheese and bacon burger remain bestsellers. However, a new standout has emerged: the ‘Not a Big Mac’. While it echoes the flavour profile of a well-known fast-food burger, it offers a unique twist: a West Cork 6oz beef patty with shredded lettuce, Carbery cheese, pickled gherkins, The Badass BBQ’s own take on Big Mac sauce, and crispy onions instead of raw onions.
Beyond burgers, the breakfast menu, served from 9am to 11:30am at the farmers’ market, continues to gain traction. The Mexican Hash, featuring marinated double-fried potatoes, spicy sauce, caramelised onions, Carbery cheese, smoked bacon lardons, Pico de Gallo salsa, guacamole, garlic mayo, and a fried egg, has become a top seller, as has the Spaniard’s Hash.
Catering for private events has become a major aspect of the business. Through word of mouth, demand for The Badass BBQ’s catering services has surged, covering weddings, birthday parties, club-run events, and any occasion requiring top-tier food. Unlike the market menu, private catering offerings include dishes like Beef Birria Tacos, Lamb Shoulder Kebabs, Sticky Glazed Pork Belly, as well as a variety of vegetarian options and fresh salads.
Looking ahead to 2025, The Badass BBQ will be at Skibbereen Farmers Market every Saturday from 9am to 2pm. Plans are also underway to rejoin Bantry Farmers Market part-time for the summer season. Additionally, the team will continue catering for large-scale events at the National Rowing Centre. All updates regarding opening hours and locations are regularly posted on Instagram (@thebadassbbq).
For private event bookings, Alex is available via email at nowotynskialex@gmail.com and is happy to provide sample menus upon request.
As the business continues to thrive, Alex remains grateful for the loyal customers who return week after week. Whether it’s a market morning or a major sporting event, The Badass BBQ is all about great food, good company, and plenty of craic!
