Who we are

At Diamond 9 Barbecue, we're more than just a BBQ restaurant – we’re a reflection of passion, resilience, and a love for craft. Founded by a combat veteran who served in the Army, our story begins in the heart of Texas, where BBQ is a way of life. My journey started in my backyard in 2014 with small pop-ups, sharing the flavors of my home with friends and neighbors. What started as a hobby quickly grew into a full-fledged catering business, and now, a vibrant restaurant in the historic heart of Wartrace, TN.

I moved from Houston to work for an east Nashville BBQ restaurant before starting my own catering business and eventually opening my brick and mortar in Wartrace, where my dream came to life. The space we’ve chosen for our restaurant is a rustic gem – an old building with beautiful exposed brick that complements the warmth of the community. The town of Wartrace has embraced us with open arms, offering incredible support that makes this journey even more special.

For me, BBQ has been more than just cooking. It’s been a way to heal. Struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injury after my time in the Army, BBQ became my outlet – a way to deal with the challenges, frustrations, and emotions. It gave me a purpose and a way to channel my energy into something positive. That’s why I also founded Operation Combat Q, a nonprofit dedicated to helping fellow veterans through BBQ events and the power of community.

We’re proud to serve a community that feels like family, and we’re committed to bringing the best craft BBQ to the table, made with the highest quality ingredients and a passion for excellence. Whether you're enjoying a meal in our cozy restaurant or celebrating a special event with our catering services, we promise to treat you like family.

Welcome to Diamond 9 Barbecue – where every bite tells a story.

Two men holding cooked barbecue ribs at an outdoor grill setup in a park.

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