0: The Reno Detour
In 1991, Steve Grgich paused a Tahoe golf weekend to explore the Reno Rib Cook-Off—and came home with a commercial Traeger smoker and a promise: "Have Smoke, Will Travel." One driveway cook-out later, neighbors queued along the curb, and Grgich Family Catering took its first booking.
Barbecue is woven into the Grgich DNA. Steve's father, Visco Grgich, anchored the San Francisco 49ers line for seven seasons, teaching the discipline and grit that still drive every cook we run.
The first smoker that started it all
A Family Affair
Today the pits are helmed by Steve's son Jared—a culinary-school graduate and ServSafe-certified pitmaster—while Steve (also ServSafe-certified) handles marquee events and Ann Grgich keeps operations flawless.
Steve Grgich
Founder & Event Specialist
ServSafe-certified founder who handles marquee events with championship precision
Jared Grgich
Executive Chef & Pitmaster
Culinary-school graduate and ServSafe-certified pitmaster helming the pits
Ann Grgich
Operations Director
Keeps operations flawless and every detail perfectly orchestrated
The Grit Runs Deep
Championship mentality meets championship barbecue
NFL Legacy
Steve's dad, Visco Grgich, was a legendary guard for the San Francisco 49ers from 1946-1952—one of the original 49ers and the first Yugoslav to play in the NFL. Known as a tough, sometimes vicious two-way lineman, Visco was famous for his rousing pre-game pep talks that ended with him delivering a thunderous forearm shiver to doors, walls, or wooden support posts that could be felt throughout Kezar Stadium.
After his playing career ended with a knee injury in 1952, Visco became head football coach at Oakdale High School and later taught driver's education there until retiring in 1986. That same intensity and dedication to excellence runs through every cook we pull off the pit today.
Visco Grgich
SF 49ers Guard • 1946-1952
First Yugoslav in NFL • 3× AAFC All-Pro
"This is the way you've gotta do it!"
Famous for pep talks and forearm shivers felt throughout Kezar Stadium
Our Recipe is Simple
Today the pits are helmed by Steve's son Jared—a culinary-school graduate and ServSafe-certified pitmaster—while Steve (also ServSafe-certified) handles marquee events and Ann Grgich keeps operations flawless.
"Our reputation rests on slow-smoked tri-tip, fall-apart ribs, perfectly seared rib-eye, velvet-tender brisket, and a sesame chicken guests request by name."
Three family members, one legendary smoker, and a town that values honest food—this is the Grgich recipe.
Invite us to your table and experience a legacy of craftsmanship, hospitality, and flavors that linger long after the last plate is cleared.