Our Story

Where Family Gathers and Community Grows.

Bullock’s has been part of Carroll County’s heartbeat for nearly a century. The story begins in 1937, when the Bullock family opened a small meat-processing business in Westminster with a simple commitment: serve quality food with honesty, pride, and genuine hospitality. What began as a local butcher quickly grew into a beloved destination.

In 1961, the family launched Bullock’s Country Meats & Farm Market, offering fresh local products to generations of families. As the community connection deepened, the family expanded once again—this time into a full-service restaurant known for home-style cooking, famous fried chicken, and a welcoming atmosphere.

By 1981, Bullock’s expanded its dining room into the footprint still used today, creating a space where memories have been made for decades. Families gathered after games, friends met at the salad bar, and countless regulars became part of the Bullock’s family.

In 2002, ownership transitioned to Doug Zepp and Clyde Hirt, who carried forward the tradition of hearty meals and community-centered service.

A new era began in 2023 when Westminster natives Matthew Culotta and Julian Jaspert purchased Bullock’s. Their mission is clear: preserve the heritage and traditions that generations cherish—especially the fried chicken and iconic salad bar—while building a stronger future for the next generation.

On October 26, 2023, Bullock’s celebrated its Grand Re-Opening alongside the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce, reaffirming its longstanding values: Where Family Gathers and Community Grows.

Today, Bullock’s remains a place where traditions are honored, guests are treated like family, and the food tastes just as you remember it. Whether you are a lifelong regular or a first-time guest, we are proud to welcome you into the next chapter of a Carroll County favorite.

A Tradition Built Over Generations

From a small meat processing business to a beloved Carroll County landmark, Bullock’s story spans generations of family, food, and community. Each chapter reflects a commitment to quality, hospitality, and gathering around the table—values that continue to define Bullock’s today.

1937

The Beginning: Bullock Meat Processing

The Bullock family’s presence in Carroll County’s food industry began in 1937 with the opening of Bullock Meat Processing in Westminster, Maryland. Known for quality meats and strong customer service, the business quickly became a trusted local supplier and laid the groundwork for what would become one of the region’s most recognizable establishments.

1961

Bullock’s Country Meats Opens

In 1961, the family expanded with the launch of Bullock’s Country Meats & Farm Market. Combining traditional butchering with a retail market, the business became a community staple—offering local meats, produce, and farm-fresh goods that built the Bullock reputation for quality and hospitality.

1970's – 1980's

The Restaurant Era Begins

As the market thrived, the family added a full-service restaurant to serve their growing customer base. Known for country-style cooking, famous fried chicken, and a full salad bar, Bullock’s quickly became a favorite gathering place for families, travelers, and loyal locals.

In 1981, the Bullocks expanded the building, creating the dining space still used today. This addition increased seating capacity, enhanced the buffet and salad bar, and positioned Bullock’s as a central hub for community events and family dining.

2002

Transition to New Ownership

After decades of success, the Bullock family sold the restaurant to longtime associates Doug Zepp and Clyde Hirt in 2002. Under their leadership, the restaurant continued its legacy of hearty meals and welcoming, family-style hospitality.

2023

A New Generation Continues the Legacy

In May 2023, Westminster natives Matthew Culotta and Julian Jaspert purchased Bullock’s Restaurant with a commitment to honor the brand’s traditions while ushering in new energy. Their motto was simple: “Bring back the salad bar—don’t change the fried chicken.”

A Grand Re-Opening and Ribbon Cutting with the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce took place on October 26, 2023, marking the start of Bullock’s next chapter. Their focus has been revitalizing the brand, expanding catering operations, and strengthening Bullock’s longstanding role as a community-centered institution.