Phil Pace

Phil Pace doesn’t come from a long line of BBQ connoisseurs. Instead, he created from scratch a top-secret recipe for BBQ rubs and sauce while taking his dad’s advice to “only cook what he knows best and treat employees like family”.

Taking care, satisfying cravings and supporting customers has always been #1 for Phil.  With an equally strong passion, his commitment to the San Diego community has also been an intricate part of his journey. Since launching the first Phil’s BBQ in Mission Hills in 1998, Phil’s has contributed over half a million dollars to local children’s charities.

His restaurants are closed on Mondays, but for Phil, giving back is a 24/7 operation. “I just do what my heart tells me to do. I just can’t hold back,” he said during an interview at his Point Loma restaurant. “I want to help people and share my life and my prosperity with others.”