Built on Smoke: How Heritage Barbecue Became a California Legend

What does it take to build one of California’s most celebrated barbecue destinations? For Danny and Brenda Castillo, it started with a dream, a smoker, and a relentless belief that craft and community could coexist.

In this episode of Shady Characters, hosts Evan Burgher and Tim DeBrincat sit down with the husband-and-wife team behind Heritage Barbecue — the San Juan Capistrano institution now recognized by both Michelin and James Beard. The Castillos share how their journey began in a backyard, selling plates to friends, and evolved into a full-fledged culinary movement built on authenticity, family values, and old-school work ethic.

Danny talks about the realities of running a smokehouse, from adapting to California’s regulations and weather, to the difference between pulling brisket and mastering the pit. He and Brenda reflect on the sacrifices that came with chasing excellence: sleeping in vans during openings, working three jobs, and balancing parenthood with 24-hour pit shifts.

They discuss mentorship, legacy, and the deep satisfaction of seeing their children step into the family business; their daughter managing events, their teenage son on the line, and their youngest already acting like the boss. The couple opens up about their shared vision for creating opportunities for others, nurturing young talent with “that twinkle in their eye,” and keeping perspective through humility, humor, and hard work.

From humble beginnings to Michelin nods, Heritage is a story about never forgetting where you come from, even as you rise. It’s about family, food, and the fire that keeps both burning.