our story
When The Grainery first opened it's doors, we were a small restaurant driven by a love for good BBQ. Our restaurant quickly became a gathering spot where people from all walks of life could come together and enjoy a good meal. Not long after our opening, we began adding live music to the mix. Our community finally had a place where they could grab a good bite to eat while enjoying talented local bands and solo artists. What was once a small dining spot soon became the place-to-be for music lovers.
As the demand for live music grew, so did The Grainery's offerings. A back patio with a full stage was built to accomodate the growing crowd and music acts. Local musicians and even touring acts started performing regularly. We were able to add the unique dining experience of a shared patio space where customers could order food from both The Grainery and our sister restaurant - Pioneer Pizza.
Not long after building the patio, it became clear we needed even more space to accomodate Plain City's need to party. Our once quaint BBQ spot expanded next door to triple our space and add an indoor stage, a space fit for nationally known acts and a party like no other. The Grainery is now a vibrant venue known not only for its amazing BBQ, but also as the biggest entertainment venue for miles around, where memories are made over good food and great tunes.
Tim Dawson
Meet the Owner
Like so many entrepreneurs, the vision for my career started early. At the age of 15, I got a job crafting pizzas. While that isn't everyone's dream job, it laid the foundation for a lifelong passion. I soon began working for Honda, and after 21 years, I made the decision to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. With the knowledge I had gained making pizzas as a teen, I opened my first pizza shop in 2007, Monarch Pizza, in Marysville. I soon saw the rewards of my hard work, and I was able to leave Honda to open my second restaurant, Wildcat Pizza. This venture was soon followed by the establishment of Pioneer Pizza in 2017, and Panther Pizza in 2018.
Within a span of 11 years, I was able to open four successful pizza shops, but I knew I didn't want to stop there. Born from a desire to revitalize historic Plain City and a love of BBQ, The Grainery opened in 2019. Beginning as a simple sketch on a napkin, The Grainery has quickly put Plain City on the map, offering the best BBQ around and brining Nashville artists to our own community.
With the success of The Grainery, I've learned a little hard work and a dream can take you far. My appreciation for historic buildings has grown, and my passion for revitalizing the past has become a key focus in my future ventures.
The Plain City community has been a huge part of The Grainery's success. Determined to give back, Tim Dawson also founded Rock the Clock, an annual nonprofit event that brings people together with live country music, children’s activities, and amazing food in downtown Plain City. Each year, this event becomes bigger and bigger, brining nationally-known artists to Plain City. Visit our Rock the Clock website to learn more about this year's event!
