Meet Judy J. Gomez
For Judy J. Gomez, barbecue is more than a business—it’s a lifelong passion, a creative outlet, and the fulfillment of a dream years in the making.
In April 2025, Judy became the proud owner of Lost Texan BBQ, taking the reins from founders James and Marti Hammon, who had already built the restaurant into one of the area’s most respected barbecue destinations. Judy saw an opportunity to preserve everything guests had come to love while bringing her own culinary perspective to the menu. By building on the Hammons’ strong foundation, she has continued the restaurant’s tradition of authentic Texas barbecue while refining recipes, expanding flavors, and introducing creative new dishes that reflect her own style.
The moment Judy walked through the doors of Lost Texan BBQ, she knew it was where she belonged. The restaurant’s commitment to family, faith, tradition, community, and love for country perfectly aligned with the kind of brand she had always dreamed of building. For Judy, Lost Texan BBQ wasn’t simply a business opportunity—it was a legacy worth carrying forward.
Born in Los Angeles and raised in Reno, Nevada, Judy’s culinary journey has been shaped by two distinct food cultures. Los Angeles inspired her appreciation for bold flavors and diverse culinary traditions, while Reno introduced her to creativity, resilience, and the growing world of barbecue. Her passion for cooking began at home, learning from her mother—an exceptional cook who worked in an Asian-Mexican food truck in Los Angeles. Those early experiences sparked Judy’s love for blending cultures and creating unforgettable flavors.
Determined to master authentic Texas barbecue, Judy trained in Fort Worth, Texas, where she learned traditional smoking techniques from some of the industry’s finest pitmasters. Today, she combines those authentic Texas roots with her own fearless culinary style, creating a menu that honors tradition while embracing innovation. Her philosophy is simple: respect the craft, never stop improving, and always serve food that creates memorable experiences.
The Lost Texan Team
At Lost Texan BBQ, Judy works alongside Head Pitmaster Manny Ojeda, and together they are relentless in their pursuit of great barbecue. Smoking exclusively with authentic Texas post oak, they continually refine every process and recipe while staying true to the techniques that make Texas barbecue legendary. It’s a collaborative effort built on passion, precision, and a shared commitment to excellence.
The History
Just as important as preserving the recipes is preserving the heart of Lost Texan BBQ. One tradition Judy has proudly continued is the J-ROC Sandwich, a menu favorite created in honor of James and Marti Hammon’s son, Jared “J-ROC” Reaves, who courageously battled leukemia before passing away in 2019. Keeping the sandwich on the menu is a meaningful tribute to Jared’s memory and a reminder that family has always been at the heart of Lost Texan BBQ.
Judy has also continued the restaurant’s cherished Honor Wall, a tribute recognizing the men and women who have served as members of the military and as first responders. Guests are invited to submit a photo and the name of a loved one who has served, and Lost Texan BBQ proudly prints, frames, and displays each one as a lasting expression of gratitude and respect. It’s one of the many ways the restaurant continues to honor those who have sacrificed for their communities and our country.
The Family
Behind Judy every step of the way is her husband, Gerson Gomez, her biggest supporter and partner in the journey. Whether he’s setting aside his work as a general contractor to help behind the pit or enthusiastically telling everyone he meets about Lost Texan BBQ, Gerson’s unwavering belief in their vision has been instrumental in making the dream a reality.
When asked to choose a favorite menu item, Judy doesn’t hesitate: the Smoked Brisket Polenta from the Sunday Brunch menu. Featuring creamy smoked cheddar polenta, 18-hour peppered brisket, fresh chimichurri, and crispy fried onions, it’s a dish that perfectly represents everything Lost Texan BBQ stands for—bold flavors, comforting traditions, and a fresh, modern approach to authentic Texas barbecue.
Today, Judy’s mission is to honor the legacy that James and Marti Hammon created while continuing to elevate Lost Texan BBQ with her own creativity, passion, and dedication to the craft. Every plate served reflects a respect for Texas barbecue traditions, a willingness to innovate, and a genuine desire to make every guest feel like family. By preserving the traditions that made Lost Texan BBQ special while adding her own signature touch, Judy is ensuring its story continues for generations to come.