Ep. 146 - The Return of Smokin' Z's

Ep. 146 - The Return of Smokin' Z's

Author: Andrew and Bryan January 25, 2021 Duration: 27:21
When we first visited Smokin’ Z’s BBQ, Zaid and Mallory Al-Jazrawi were serving up quality barbecue in the Galveston area in 2018-2019 when they were faced with a problem many growing barbecue businesses face: the need for pit expansion to keep up with demand.    Unfortunately, following the arrival of their new 1,000 gallon pit, health department permitting issues threw a wrench into the plans for Smokin’ Z’s BBQ. While they were going through the back and forth to navigate the always muddy waters of city and county regulations while simultaneously wedding planning, the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world.     Zaid and Mallory rolled with the punches, kept moving forward, and at the end of 2020 were finally able to reopen Smokin’ Z’s BBQ after one final hurdle: moving their business across the street from its previous location. Their community has responded with tremendous support, and they’re hopeful to see an influx of business from the tourist traffic that hits Galveston in the spring and summer. Make the drive down to the water and grab some quality craft barbecue from this great spot!   Previous interview with Smokin’ Z’s BBQ: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tales-from-pits-texas-bbq-podcast-featuring-trendsetters/id1242690345?i=1000429623195   Instagram: @smokinzsbbq   Open Sat & Sun: 11 am - sold out  6 Herring Drive Bayou Vista, Texas

There’s a whole world of smoke and story behind every plate of Texas barbecue, and that’s exactly where Tales from the pits lives. Hosts Andrew and Bryan pull up a chair beside the people who shape this beloved tradition, moving far beyond just recipes and techniques. Each conversation digs into the personal journeys of pitmasters, restaurateurs, and suppliers-the real trendsetters and icons who define the industry. You’ll hear firsthand accounts of building a business around a smoker, the cultural roots of different regional styles, and the unexpected challenges of keeping a centuries-old craft alive and thriving today. This podcast is as much about community and place as it is about food, exploring how barbecue intersects with art, travel, and local identity across Texas. For anyone captivated by the aroma of post oak and the pursuit of the perfect bark, these stories offer a genuine connection to the passion and personality fueling every fire. Tune in for honest talks from the pits, the kitchens, and the minds that are shaping what Texas barbecue means now.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Tales from the pits, a Texas BBQ podcast featuring trendsetters, leaders, and icons from the barbecue industry
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