Lucius Q BBQ is a well-known barbecue restaurant located in the Pendleton neighborhood of Cincinnati, Ohio. It quickly became popular for its blend of smoked meats, lively atmosphere, and connection to the local community. Many people have been curious about who owns Lucius Q, especially after recent developments surrounding one of its co-founders.
Ownership Status of Lucius Q BBQ
| Shareholder/Owner | Ownership Percentage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Remaining Founding Partners (Jeff Keate, Tom Martin, Shane Spears) | Undisclosed (collectively 100% after Sharpe’s removal) | Early co-founders and operators of the restaurant. |
| Aaron Sharpe (former minority partner) | 0% (no longer associated) | Co-founded Lucius Q, exited in September 2025 after controversy. |
About the Owners
- Jeff Keate – An experienced restaurant professional who helped set up Lucius Q’s operations and branding.
- Tom Martin – Served as pitmaster, shaping the restaurant’s authentic barbecue offerings.
- Shane Spears – Provided managerial and financial oversight, helping stabilize the business side.
- Aaron Sharpe (former owner) – A local media personality and arts supporter. He co-founded Lucius Q to combine food, music, and community. However, in September 2025, following backlash over controversial comments he made on social media, the restaurant publicly announced that he was no longer associated with the business.
Company Overview
Lucius Q BBQ was founded in 2018 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its name pays homage to the Roman general Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus, from whom the city of Cincinnati gets its name. The restaurant built a reputation for its smoked brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, served alongside live music and a community-focused dining experience. It also operated as a vendor at TQL Stadium for FC Cincinnati matches until the fall of 2025.
Recent Developments in Ownership
In September 2025, Lucius Q severed ties with co-founder and minority partner Aaron Sharpe following his controversial social media remarks. The restaurant issued a statement confirming he was no longer involved. After his exit, the business ownership remained with the other founding partners, although exact shareholding percentages have not been made public.
FAQs
Q: Who is the current owner of Lucius Q BBQ?
Lucius Q is currently owned by its remaining founding partners (including Jeff Keate, Tom Martin, and Shane Spears).
Q: Is Lucius Q BBQ publicly traded or privately owned?
Lucius Q BBQ is privately owned.
Q: Who is the founder of Lucius Q BBQ?
Lucius Q was co-founded in 2018 by Aaron Sharpe, Jeff Keate, Tom Martin, and Shane Spears.
Q: Has the ownership changed recently?
Yes. In September 2025, co-founder Aaron Sharpe exited the business after a controversy, leaving the remaining founders in ownership.