Our Story

At Wyatt’s BBQ, our roots run deep—right back to the smoky fires of the late 1970s in Atlanta, Georgia. That’s when my father, a dedicated schoolteacher by day and passionate pitmaster by night, began honing his craft. As a kid, I spent countless evenings by his side, mesmerized by the aroma of slow-smoked ribs and the rhythm of real Southern barbecue.

I caught the BBQ bug in the late ’80s and started grilling on my own, learning not just the techniques, but the soul of barbecue—patience, love, and tradition. After retiring from teaching, my father turned his passion into a small neighborhood business. What started with selling ribs and chicken from his driveway soon grew into catering gigs, a food truck, and eventually a brick-and-mortar restaurant.

Though the restaurant proved more work than he wanted in retirement, he left a legacy: loyal customers, timeless recipes, and a drive to bring people together through food. Even after scaling back, he kept cooking—serving up plates on the streets of Atlanta and reminding me that great barbecue doesn’t come from a building, it comes from the heart.

Now in California, I’m carrying that torch forward. I’ve been perfecting my recipes since 1995, especially our pulled pork and brisket—two meats that demand time, patience, and respect. It took years of trial, error, and smoky dedication to craft the perfect balance of tenderness, flavor, and bark. Every bite reflects that journey, and every plate is served with pride.

And I haven’t done it alone. My wife Monica has been by my side every step of the way, helping grow Wyatt’s BBQ with her heart, hard work, and incredible Mexican roots. Together, we’ve fused two rich culinary traditions—Southern barbecue and Mexican flavors—to create something truly special. Her vibrant side dishes, inspired by family recipes and bold spices, bring a fresh, soulful balance to our smoky meats and make every meal a celebration of culture, love, and community.

Wyatt’s BBQ is more than just food—it’s family, history, and Southern soul on a plate, now beautifully seasoned with the warmth of Monica’s heritage. I’m proud to share our story, and even prouder to serve you barbecue that’s been decades in the making.