New Times: Why do you think Firestone Grill is such a popular spot in San Luis Obispo?
Sprague: We serve a consistent product. We have good prices and the location downtown is perfect.
New Times: What is the most popular food item and why?
Sprague: Definitely the tri-tip sandwich by far. The meat is tender and the barbecue sauce is really good. You can’t beat the combination of the barbecue sauce and the bread dipped in the garlic butter.
New Times: How much tri-tip does Firestone Grill cook weekly?
Sprague: We use around 2000 pounds a week, give or take.
New Times: How many employees work at Firestone Grill?
Sprague: I would say we have somewhere between 40-50.
New Times: Is Firestone Grill affiliated with the Firestone Brewery?
Sprague: There’s no affiliation with the brewery or the winery. They are all separate entities.
New Times: Is Firestone Grill still involved with Cal Poly Football?
Sprague: Our owner Dave Billingsley has always been very generous with the Cal Poly community and he stays involved. He has another restaurant in Fresno, so he is involved with Fresno State as well.
This article appears in Sep 10-17, 2009.