After working and traveling for many years in the security and private protection field, Billy Durney fulfilled a longtime dream by opening Hometown Bar-B-Que in 2013.

In 2019, he opened Hometown Barbecue Miami, Hometown Bar-B-Que Industry City as well as his beloved Red Hook Tavern. In 2022, he launched Billy’s Place, a private space where he invites friends from all over the world to create incredible culinary experiences. In May 2024, Sag Harbor Tavern, an ode to NYC classics, opens in historic Sag Harbor, NY.

Billy’s culinary creations have gained national media attention, and he has been featured in major publications and broadcasts such as The New York Times, The New Yorker, Bon Appetit, Texas Monthly, Nightline, Good Day New York, Good Morning America, The Food Network, Cooking Channel, the Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and more. He has also made guest appearances and cooked at events and festivals all over the world, showcasing his multi-ethnic brand of barbecue and infamous Dry-Aged Red Hook Tavern burger.

In February 2019, he was nominated for a James Beard award for Best Chef: NYC. Additionally, all Hometown locations have received MICHELIN Bib Gourmands. Billy is a proud Yeti ambassador and sits on the Board of ROAR.