About BeatBox BBQ

Learn more about our passion for exceptional service and our commitment to making every event extraordinary.

My Story

The story of Beatbox BBQ begins as the world came to a halt during the pandemic of 2020. With my free time, I began learning how to barbecue by cooking almost every day on my Weber kettle.

There was something so satisfying about creating food with such deep flavor and depth using simple ingredients, and I couldn’t get enough of it.

Fast forward to when society returned to normal: I was working at a fundraiser where I cooked a pork shoulder and served tacos to raise money for an animal shelter when I was approached to cater a company’s holiday party.

“Nah nah nah, I appreciate it, but I am not a chef and I only do this for fun,” was my response when asked, but they assured me that what I had was what they wanted, so I agreed to give it a shot!

Needless to say, it worked out, and what started as a hobby in my backyard eventually became Beatbox BBQ.

BeatBox BBQ’s Goals

Our goal is to create an environment that is comfortable while providing an experience that will stick with you long after the event is over. 

Everybody has different needs for their event, so the planning process is critical to ensure you are provided with exactly what you are looking for, and this is very important to me. Once the big day is here, when I first arrive at your event, the smell of barbecue will immediately get your mouth watering as I always hand-pull the pork on site. 

As the event goes on, you might notice your head bobbing to a song you’ve never heard before, and at that point, you are getting the full Beatbox BBQ experience.

Hey!  I’m Ian Ulrich

Originally from Toledo, I arrived in Columbus in 2007 as I began my freshman year at The Ohio State University. I was always the guy who stayed busy with many hobbies growing up, from sports to music and everything in between.


After graduating with a degree in Hospitality Management, I began working in the beer industry in 2011, specifically in sales. Throughout that journey, I had the opportunity to travel all over the world, with food and beverage being the main focus of every adventure. After nearly 12 years in the industry, I decided to hang up my boots and embark on a new journey with my professional life.

Although I am not a trained chef, I couldn’t get enough of creating food in the kitchen, learning from those around me as well as watching an embarrassing amount of YouTube videos. To this day, I still remain very active in many aspects of life, but my true passion is putting smiles on people’s faces through my actions, whether it be through food, drink, music, or just hanging out.

Mike R.

“I loved using Beatbox BBQ.  They bring a very cool beverage cart and made some amazing cocktails that everyone loved.  The DJ played great music and he had the ability to take some requests which really helped the evening feel more special.  Ian makes some amazing BBQ as well, I have been fortunate enough to sample it a few times, and it is top notch.  I would 100% use these guys again!”

Cindy G.

“Met Ian, his great smile and his amazing Beatbox BBQ at a local establishment – inquired about catering an office event. Ian was such crowd pleaser – cooks fresh right on the spot and brings such amazing energy/vibes to his BBQ! He was great to add additional menu items to suit our party! We can’t ever have a Halloween party without Beatbox BBQ!”

Michael S.

“I’ve worked with Beatbox for multiple work parties and will continue to. They bring delicious food, great beats, and their service can set the tone for the whole event.”

Book Your Next Event with Us!

Let us take care of the food, drink, and music so you can enjoy the moment. Inquire now for more details!