Our Story

Like most great BBQ, the dream started in Texas where Alex was living after graduating from St. Edwards University in Austin. From sampling, observing, studying and lots of trial runs came a love for true Craft BBQ. Alex knew he had great product and knew he wanted to bring it back to his home town in Johnson City, TN. So after much persuasion, he convinced his Dad, Ron (who instilled the love of grilling in him) and his Brother-in-Law, Steve Talarico, to join him on this BBQ journey. They went to Austin and picked up a 600 gallon smoker and brought it back to TN. They bought a food trailer and with the help of some great friends, they set up in the Crown Labs parking lot next to the Mall in Johnson City in March of 2021. 

After the first week, they knew they had something special. It didn’t take long to realize this food truck that housed their first triumphs, and a few failures, was not allowing them to truly serve their patrons and community the way they knew they needed to. The world needs more BBQ!  

One year later in March 2022, Project BBQ opened as a brick and mortar, bringing BBQ back to the site of the former Dixie BarBQue location. With the help of their amazing team of staff, family, and customers and the addition of a new 1000 gallon smoker, the dream became reality. Project BBQ focuses on doing it RIGHT. No propane, no gas. Just some good ole hard wood and a lot of love. We are so grateful for the amount of support we have received from this amazing community and we are honored to serve the Best Q possible. Stop on in and see for yourself.