I’m John Dawson, the cook behind Patio Daddio BBQ. This is where I share a bunch of my recipes for barbecue, grilling, outdoor cooking, and the kind of food that gets people gathered around the table.
I like solid technique, honest opinions, and recipes that work in a real backyard and kitchen. Here you’ll find nothing fancy for the sake of being fancy, and forget pretentious. It’s all about the simple idea that good food is better when it brings people together.
Patio Daddio?
The name Patio Daddio was coined by necessity. Back in 2006 I had a hairbrained idea to throw my hat into the world of competition barbecue. Well, that requires a team name. I was a team of exactly one, so my wife and three daughters came up with the name and it has stuck ever since.

(circa 2009)
What’s this all about?
Here you’ll find recipes for barbecue, grilling, smoking, and everyday cooking. That means the typical slow-smoked meats, grilled chicken, rubs, sauces, sides, and a many dishes that wander well beyond the usual barbecue menu. I try to keep the instructions clear, practical, and flexible enough for you to make them your own.
I’ve spent years cooking, learning from other barbecue folks, participating in competitions, and sharing good food with people. I’ve also worked with many food brands and reviewed products along the way, but I try to keep it real. If something works, I’ll tell you. If it doesn’t, I’ll tell you that too. Whether you’re firing up a grill for the first time or working on a cook you’ve done a dozen times, I hope you find something here worth trying.
Let’s get crackalackin and make something delicious!

