OUR STORY
Danny hernandez
Long Time Tampa Resident & Pitmaster
Danny Hernandez is a veteran Tampa restaurateur with over 35 years of experience, a journey that began at age nine in his father’s restaurant, Pipo’s Cuban Café. After serving in the US Navy and building the successful Holy Hog BBQ brand, Hernandez shifted his focus toward artisanal, small-batch barbecue. In 2021, he opened The Brisket Shoppe alongside his outdoor kitchen retail store, Grill & Provisions (now Tampa Bay Outdoor Kitchens), creating a hub for BBQ enthusiasts in the West Tampa area. All created out of the love and passion for BBQ and community.
Beyond the pit, Hernandez is a dedicated community leader known for founding the BBQ Love Fest, a charity event managed on by his 401C Peace Love & BBQ, that raises funds for local nonprofits. His influence on the Tampa culinary scene continues to grow through high-profile partnerships, including a featured chef residency at Raymond James Stadium for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Chef Series.
Our STYLE BBQ
Redefining Texas BBQ With A Cuban Twist & Innovation
At The Brisket Shoppe, Hernandez specializes in “Tampeño-style” craft barbecue, which blends traditional Central Texas techniques with flavors from his Cuban heritage. The menu is headlined by premium Akaushi Wagyu brisket smoked over Florida oak, as well as creative items like guava-glazed pork belly and brisket pastries. His commitment to quality has earned the establishment a spot on the Tampa Bay Times Top 50 Restaurants list for 2025.
The Brisket Shoppe’s menu extends far beyond its namesake to include a variety of expertly smoked proteins and creative “Tampeño” twists on classics. Diners can enjoy Cheshire pork ribs with a guava barbecue glaze, herb-smoked turkey breast seasoned with rosemary and garlic butter, and Huli Huli chicken brined in pineapple and ginger. The shop also features handcrafted sausages in varieties like Texas Hot Link and Jalapeño Cheddar, alongside indulgent specialties such as Brisket Bon Bons—fresh yeast rolls stuffed with sweet brisket—and savory Brisket Croquetas. On Saturdays, the menu often features the “Dino Bone,” a massive smoked Wagyu beef rib, or seasonal specials like chargrilled oysters with hatch chile garlic butter.
PEACE LOVE & BBQ
Redefining Texas BBQ With A Cuban Twist & Innovation
Beyond the menu, the establishment serves as a community hub that celebrates Tampa’s local spirit and philanthropic needs. Hernandez, who considers himself “Tampa Made,” actively integrates his business into the city’s fabric through events like BBQ Love Fest, an annual charity festival that raises significant funds for nonprofits like the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA). This culture of “cooking for a cure” transforms the restaurant into more than just a place to eat; it is a gathering spot where locals and “BBQ Family” members bond over shared traditions and the common goal of supporting their neighbors.