On our latest Let’s Eat adventure, we traveled through the city of North Pulaski and made our way to a small but rapidly growing community known as Brushy Island. Tucked away in the heart of this hidden food oasis is a place called Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge, where food meets friendship and history runs deep.
The Brushy Island Story
Brushy Island is a tight-knit community rich with history and tradition, rapidly expanding thanks to key developers like Chris Baker and his family. The Baker family has lived here for generations, nurturing the roots of the town while bringing fresh ideas to revitalize it. Chris, a Brushy Island native, and his family have played a critical role in the growth of the area, making it one of the most sought-after spots in North Pulaski. The development boom has led to new homes, community spaces, and, most importantly, the rise of local businesses like Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge.
A Stop at Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge
Kev and the crew rolled into Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge, where the smell of smoked meats greeted us at the door. The lounge has a rustic charm, with BBQ lovers from all over coming to experience the flavorful menu and Southern hospitality. Upon arrival, Kev was reunited with a long-time childhood friend, T Allen Booth, a super producer and owner of Beats by Hym. It was a meeting filled with laughter, memories, and of course, some incredible food recommendations.
Booth couldn’t help but rave about the award-winning smoke-seared chicken wings. Known for their perfect combination of smoky flavor and crispy skin, they’ve earned their spot as a favorite among both locals and visitors. Booth’s endorsement of these wings didn’t disappoint—they were tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. But that’s just the beginning of the delicious menu at Smoken Joe’s.
The Menu: 3 Must-Try Items
Smoke-Seared Chicken Wings – As mentioned by Booth, these wings are the crown jewel of the menu. Each bite delivers a smoky burst of flavor that makes them deserving of their award-winning status. Paired with a house-made dipping sauce, they’re perfect for any BBQ lover.
Brisket Sandwich – Slow-cooked to perfection, the brisket sandwich is a BBQ classic at Smoken Joe’s. The meat is melt-in-your-mouth tender, with just the right amount of smoky flavor. Served on a fresh bun with a side of BBQ sauce, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal.
A Chance Meeting with Kevin Cotton
While enjoying our meal, Kev had the pleasure of meeting another Brushy Island resident, Kevin Cotton, a fellow BBQ enthusiast and community supporter. Cotton shared stories about the local area and how it’s evolving thanks to the work of families like the Bakers and business owners who are putting Brushy Island on the map. It was clear from our conversation that the heart of this community lies in its people, all dedicated to maintaining its heritage while embracing growth.
Growing Together
As Brushy Island continues to flourish, places like Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge serve as gathering spots where the past meets the present. it’s easy to see why this once small town is now a hotspot for food lovers and families alike.
From award-winning BBQ to lifelong friendships, Brushy Island’s growth is just beginning, and Let’s Eat is excited to see where it goes next.
Stay tuned as Kev continues exploring hidden gems like Brushy Island, where history, food, and community come together to create something truly special.
Until next time, Let’s Eat!
The content of this documentary is based on personal experiences, interviews, and publicly available information at the time of production. All opinions expressed are those of the individuals involved and do not represent the views of any affiliated businesses or entities. The information provided about Brushy Island and Smoken Joe’s BBQ Lounge is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only. Menu items, prices, and community details may change over time. Viewers are encouraged to verify information directly with the business for the most up-to-date details.
I love this, keep it up kev!!!!