About Ember & Ash

Meet the man behind Ember & Ash

I'm Johnny Byrd — owner and pitmaster of Ember & Ash Craft BBQ. I'm a retired Long Beach firefighter, a licensed electrician, a home renovator, and a guy who really loves making good BBQ.

It started the way a lot of good BBQ does: cooking for family and friends. Nearly 20 years of experimenting, tweaking recipes, perfecting methods, and finding any excuse to fire up the smoker turned into Ember & Ash Craft BBQ — a chance to share the food I love with the Coast.

I've never met a stranger. I love good food and good company, and I'll happily tell you exactly what went into what you're eating. I'm hoping to start sharing recipes, methods and BBQ know-how on camera soon, so keep an eye on our socials.

Look for the big orange trailer. We move around the MS Gulf Coast and are aiming to find regular spots around the Coast. Local businesses, breweries, venues and events — send us a message about having Ember & Ash set up.

Next time you see me behind the window, come say hey — and come hungry!

— Johnny Byrd, Owner & Pitmaster