Savour the flavours of authentic BBQ at Smokin' Hot BBQ.
Savour the flavours of authentic BBQ at Smokin' Hot BBQ.
There’s a new smoke signal above Runaway Bay, and it’s coming from none other than Smokin’ Hot BBQ, the latest flavour sensation to grace the Gold Coast’s food scene.
Nestled in Runaway Bay, this family-owned gem is the brainchild of Donna Hoskin and Reuben Connolly, a dynamic duo with a passion for BBQ that’s off the charts.
While Smokin’ Hot BBQ officially opened doors just a couple of months ago, their story traces back to a little over three years ago where their food truck first hit the dining scene.
Donna, with a background in community-based aged care and hospital food services, managed Big Chief Burgers and boasts over 30 years of hospitality experience.
Reuben, on the other hand, worked in his family’s wholesale meat and smallgoods business for years, and with a degree in PR & Marketing, he’s now a bonafide pit master.
Together, they’ve mastered the art of low and slow BBQ, tantalizing taste buds at local events and gatherings.
With their culinary expertise, opening a restaurant so that more could get their hands on the low and slow goodness just made sense.
New to the smoked meat scene? Say less. Exactly as it sounds, these flavour bombs are cooked at low temps for long periods to make sure you get max flavour and tenderness in a way you could never from your backyard Weber.
Already calling the northern Gold Coast home, Donna and Reuben knew it was a no brainer that the bayside suburb was to be home to Smokin’ Hot BBQ.
The restaurant is a reflection of their love for the craft, with rustic accents and wood grain panelling making for the perfect spot to kick back and tuck into your choice of seriously delish smoked meats.
The team at Smokin’ Hot BBQ are mixing global flavours with their local roots to bring the flavourful goodness all made from seriously good local produce.
The many drool-worthy dining options include burgers, Texas chilli, smoked pork ribs, loaded fries, solo plates, share plates, salads, a selection for the kidlets and a bunch of lip smacking sides and sauces (liquid cheese anyone?).
Their signature share dish, the Smokin’ Hot Pit Out is an ode to the glorious flavours of BBQ perfection. Loaded with smoked brisket, pulled pork, Texas chilli, hot link (smoked sausage), house slaw, corn chips, seasoned fried, sauce and dinner rolls, every bite is a journey into the heart of BBQ perfection.
If a burger is more your jam, the Brisket Burger with smoked brisket, house slaw and smokey BBQ sauce will give you the true taste of BBQ goodness.
Whether you’re wanting to soak up the spring sun or get amongst the smokey goodness inside, what truly sets Smokin’ Hot BBQ apart is the fact that it’s a family-owned and operated business.
Donna and Reuben pour their heart and souls into every dish they serve, making each bite is a celebration of the craft and a testament to their dedication.
So, if you’re in the mood for some mouthwatering low and slow BBQ that’s crafted with love and tradition, Smokin’ Hot BBQ needs to be at the top of your list.
It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a flavour journey that Donna, Reuben, and their team invite you to savour the flavour.
Guaranteed you won’t regret it.
Where: 5/123 Lae Drive, Runaway Bay
When: From 10am Wednesday-Sunday
Words by Jacqueline Bojanowski.
Images by Mathilde Bouby.
STORY SPONSORED BY SMOKIN’ HOT BBQ.