Our Story
It all started in the small town of Paradise, where a passion for smoked meats and premium side dishes ignited long ago. At 13, Ian's journey in the food industry began when his parents opened a sub sandwich and take-and-bake pizza shop. He never left the industry, gaining experience in kitchens, waiting tables, managing clubs, and assisting his uncle with catering.
In 2015, Ian took a leap, acquiring "Lil' Boy," his uncle's beloved smoker, and the cornerstone of what would become Butte Creek BBQ Co. Soon after, he realized he needed help beyond the kitchen. That's when Coco, his future wife, stepped in. With her background in corporate management and marketing, it was a natural partnership.
Overcoming Adversity
The business steadily grew until tragedy struck on November 8, 2018, when the Camp Fire destroyed their home, truck, and animals. Miraculously, Lil' Boy, built for fire, survived the blaze. A few months later, determined to rebuild, Coco and Ian recommitted to their business. Ian taught Coco the art of smoking, and together they experimented with new recipes.
Expanding and Evolving
In 2021, they welcomed "Big Boy" to the Butte Creek BBQ Co. family, a new smoker that provided the flexibility needed for continued growth. And grow they did! Today, Butte Creek BBQ Co. boasts a large team of seasoned professionals, including event planners, bartenders, and pitmasters, ensuring every event is flawlessly executed.
A Vision Realized: Almendra Winery & Distillery
At the start of 2025, Ian and Coco achieved a decade-long dream: opening their own venue. When the opportunity arose to acquire Almendra Winery & Distillery—a client and, more importantly, cherished "family" for 10 years—it was an easy decision. This stunning indoor venue is everything they had envisioned, with the added bonus of producing their own alcohol.