Smokey T’s is the materialised dream of chef Tristin ('T') Anderson. Here authentic wood smoked BBQ is produced and served by the man himself. Expect the softest, juiciest slow cooked meat you’ve ever tasted. We’re talking brisket cooked to perfection in ten hours, pork belly, chicken, burgers, jalapeño and cheese sausages, fried chicken, tacos...you get the gist. Smokey T’s cult following is always growing with people making special trips from far and wide.

Every barbecuing region and enthusiast has their own philosophy on what makes BBQ so great. Here it is all about low and slow and using the best possible ingredients. Every smoke session starts with West Coast Beech. This wood lends the meats an irresistible smokey flavour. Carefully selected meats are slathered with house made sauces, rubs and glazes and left to simply do their thing. From end to end this BBQing process is all about quality and care.

All the beef used at Smokey T’s, for example, is from Ocean Beef. Raised down the road in Ashburton, these cuts are as local as they are globally sought after. Even so, the BBQ price point still reigns supreme here. It’s this combination plus the welcoming hospitality that won Smokey T’s the People’s Choice in Christchurch’s 2019 Hospitality Awards.

T and his team, however, haven’t rested on those laurels. In December 2019 they expanded to the second floor of their Cashel Street Space. The ground floor vibe is super casual with a pay at the til and takeaway set up. Upstairs you’ll find a full service bar, plenty of big tables, and a porch with views of the Port Hills. It’s an unreal spot for a beer and a mean feed and it’s packed out six days a week.

One of the most popular menu items, the platter for two is a treat every time. For just $50 you’ll get brisket, pork belly, ribs, buffalo wings, jalapeno cheese sausages, tortillas, slaw, pickles, waffle fries and Smokey T’s Original Sauce. It’s a true feast that is extremely generous for two people. Unless you're ravenous you’ll probably leave with some for later. Bring the whole gang and opt for Smokey T’s ‘Feasting’ option for 10+ people.

This is a destination where it’s easy to come and hang out in a community vibe. You may enter as a guest, but you’ll leave as part of the wider whānau. Book online to ensure you don’t miss out on a meal at this popular local spot. Takeaways are also available.