Our Story
Meet the Pitmaster and PAPA himself: Jim Wells!
Meet Jim Wells, the Owner and Pitmaster of PAPA’S Smokehouse. Married to the love of his life, Shenondoah Wells, Jim is a devoted father to three wonderful children: Colby, Mercedes, and Cashen. He's also a proud grandparent to three cherished little ones: Taylor, Tatum, and Camdyn.
Known affectionately as PAPA, Jim is a local who graduated from Fort Walton Beach High School in 1986. His post-high school journey took him through various jobs in different industries. In 1994, he ventured into Nursing School, obtaining his Registered Nursing Degree in 1996. A decade later, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and in 2018, he capped off his academic achievements with a Master’s in Healthcare Quality and Safety.
During his healthcare career, Jim became recognized for organizing cookouts for colleagues, often serving meals for 200-250 people during holiday celebrations. Leading the Food and Nutritional Services department, he gained insights into food costs, budgeting, health inspections, and customer service.
After 27 years in healthcare, Jim decided it was time for a change. Pursuing his dream of opening a barbecue restaurant, he's thrilled to bring high-quality, absolutely delicious wood-smoked barbecue to his local community.
If you happen to see Jim in town or working hard in the restaurant, feel free to give a friendly honk or a big wave!
Introducing the Co-Owner and Co-Pitmaster of PAPA's Smokehouse: Colby Wells!
Introducing Colby Wells, the son of Jim Wells and Co-Onwer of PAPA’s Smokehouse! Colby is a proud father to two remarkable daughters, Taylor and Tatum, who are the absolute joys of his life. Born and raised in the Fort Walton Beach area, he attended Choctaw High School.
Colby's early work experiences took him to various restaurants across the country, including barbecue smokehouses. He embraced every role, from bus boy and waiter to bar-back, bartender, cook, manager, and kitchen manager. In parallel, he pursued his passion for making a positive impact, earning his certification as a Registered Behavioral Technician. This qualification opened doors to a meaningful career as a behavioral therapist, specializing in working with children on the autism spectrum. Over the course of four years, he transitioned to an Instructor position at a local Private School, where he served as a Lead Instructor and member of the Executive Team.
Known for his boundless energy, Colby wears many hats beyond the school environment. He's the owner and operator of Colby's Lawn Care, a dedicated Majors Division Softball Coach, Vice President of Softball Operations for Shalimar Little League, and a valuable asset to the Pryor Middle School Softball Team.
Colby is thrilled to join forces with his father to bring Niceville a delectable barbecue experience. As the co-owner, he is committed to delivering mouthwatering barbecue that will undoubtedly become a local favorite.
If you happen to spot Colby in the community, don't hesitate to give him a friendly wave and honk! Be prepared for the biggest, and possibly craziest, smile you've ever seen—he's all about spreading joy!
Jim Wells, the first: Meet Grandpa Wells!
With over 30 years as a resident of the Fort Walton Beach area, Grandpa brings a wealth of experience to our venture. Having owned several restaurants in the past and with a robust background in the construction field, we couldn't resist coaxing him out of retirement to join us on this journey!
Grandpa has played a pivotal role in the remodeling and reconstruction of the John Sims Parkway building, leveraging his expertise to ensure every detail meets the highest standards. His commitment to excellence will undoubtedly contribute to the warm and welcoming atmosphere we aim to provide, keeping smiles on our customers' faces throughout the day.
This endeavor holds special significance for us as it marks the convergence of four generations of the Wells family, making this restaurant truly feel like home. We are thrilled to have Grandpa's invaluable insights and positive spirit as part of our team!
The Lovely Ladies Behind the Logo…PAPA’s granddaughters!
Papa's greatest Loves!
Taylor and Tatum are the daughters of Co-Owner and Pitmaster, Colby Wells. Taylor and Tatum are well known in the Fort Walton Beach community; both girls are great students, heavily involved in sports, and they are some of the kindest-hearted girls you will ever meet. You will most likely see these girls in and out of the restaurant throwing big smiles everywhere. Camdyn is the daughter of Mercedes & Adam Chandler. Camdyn lives in the small town of Maplesville - but don't let that small town image fool you! Ms. Camdyn is full of spunk, laughter and all around love. She will steal your heart with her accent and crumble you with her quick jokes. While Camdyn won't be at the restaurant as much as Taylor and Tatum, you will surely see her on some weekends and certainly during the summer!