NEW SMYRNA BEACH, FL — September 1, 2025 Nestled at the northern tip of Yacht Club Island Estates, a prestigious waterfront enclave in New Smyrna Beach, stands a mansion with more than just architectural grandeur—it carries the smoky legacy of Florida’s barbecue empire.
Located at 1202 Commodore Drive, this sprawling estate was built in 1992 by Winston Tomlinson, a name familiar to fans of Southern-style ribs and pulled pork. Tomlinson was the entrepreneurial force behind the first-ever franchise location of Sonny’s BBQ, opened in 1975. But the connection runs deeper: he was also the son-in-law of Floyd “Sonny” Tillman, who founded the original Sonny’s BBQ in Gainesville in 1968.
At its peak, Sonny’s BBQ grew to become the largest barbecue restaurant chain in the United States, boasting around 150 locations nationwide. Tomlinson later blazed his own trail in the barbecue world by launching Dustin’s Barbecue in 1991, a regional favorite that still operates six locations across Central and Eastern Florida.
The mansion itself is a testament to the success of that smoky legacy. Originally permitted for $275,000, the home now carries a Zillow estimate of $4,175,100. With over 400 feet of waterfront access, including dockage for multiple vessels, the estate offers panoramic views of the Indian River Lagoon, making it a standout for boaters cruising by.
Built with luxury in mind, the home features 7,807 square feet of living space, four bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a host of upscale amenities including a private spa, expansive decks, and a gourmet kitchen. It’s not just a residence—it’s a monument to a family that helped shape Florida’s culinary identity.
As New Smyrna Beach continues to evolve, this mansion remains a quiet icon—where barbecue history meets coastal elegance.
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