When it comes to legendary BBQ spots in Dallas, Smokey John's BBQ is a place you can’t miss. This iconic, family-owned eatery has a storied past that’s as rich & flavorful as its renowned hickory-smoked BBQ. We recently stopped by and it’s now one of our favorite BBQ joints in DFW, so go and try it yourself!
Updated September 2023
SMOKEY JOHN'S BBQ
Founded by the iconic “Smokey” John Reaves and now run by his family & son Brent, this beloved BBQ joint has been a Dallas staple since 1976. Known for its hickory-smoked BBQ & genuine Texas hospitality, Smokey John’s serves some of the best home-style cooking featuring Southern BBQ faves. Not only is the food incredible, but as soon as you walk in, you feel like family- both are what have made people keep coming back for over 4 decades!
THE MENU
For over 40 years, Smokey John’s has served Texas-style portions of traditional hickory-smoked BBQ. From melt-in-your-mouth brisket & pork ribs to crispy fried catfish, they’ve truly got it all. Plus, most sides like the candied sweet potatoes are family recipes passed down from Brent’s grandma or his mom, including our favorite, the banana pudding! Eating & dining at Smokey John’s feels like a warm hug, and we can’t wait to go back!
WHAT WE ORDERED
🥩 Sausage, ribs & brisket
🐟 Catfish Basket
🥬 Collard Greens
🍠 Candied Sweet Potatoes
🧀 Mac & Cheese
🌽 Cornbread
🍑 Peach Cobbler
🍌 Banana Pudding
THEIR STORY
Back when the world was discovering bell-bottoms & disco, the doors of “Big John’s” opened on the corner of Lemmon & Mockingbird. One of those days, a massive fire in the pit filled the restaurant with a thick cloud of smoke and one of their regulars walked in and said “Y’all should call this place Smokey John’s instead of Big John’s!” They embraced the name change, Smokey John’s was born, and the rest is history!
TAKE A TOUR
