One of Jersey’s Best BBQ Spots Just Got Bigger and Better
A version of this story originally appeared in NYC BBQ Weekly.
For years, New Jersey-based barbecue joint Red White and Que Smokehouse has attracted a lot of attention for its delicious barbecue and its proud support of veterans. The joint is among the best in NJ’s BBQ scene, alongside restaurants like Kimchi Smoke, Mutiny BBQ, and Boss Hog Barbecue.
Red White and Que Smokehouse has moved to a huge new location in Green Brook, NJ. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)
Despite its tried-and-true success, Red, White, and Que owners Dan and Katie Misuraca took a huge gamble this summer — moving from a stable takeout-only spot in Kearny, NJ, to a large restaurant space in Green Brook, NJ.
“It was a big life gamble, with all the chips on the table,” Dan Misuraca said. “We had something comfortable in Kearny, which had great business. It’s like, ‘here’s another shot.’ It was like when we started Red White and Que. We left comfortable jobs, took the money we had, and opened up a spot. We hoped we’d make a living. And now we’re doing it again.”
While the location is different, the food at the new Red White and Que is as good as ever. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)
The new location of Red White and Que Smokehouse (150 US-22 Green Brook, NJ 08812) is just off the busy highway US-22 and housed inside the home of former iconic fast-food joint Texas Weiners, which had been there for 75 years. The Green Brook location can hold roughly 100 people, has a real parking lot, and room for more smokers, which is a far cry from its small former home in Kearny.
Misuraca said he and his crew have added one large J&R Oyler smoker to its array of smokers, which in turn has increased how much meat they can smoke each day. They also have two more J&R Oyler smokers in a warehouse that will likely be installed in spring 2023. Misuraca estimates the joint’s smoked meats capacity will triple once the other smokers are up and running.
Co-owners Dan and Katie Misuraca have made a huge impression on the NJ BBQ scene over the years. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)
The menu has not changed drastically at Green Brook, so patrons can still expect to find a large array of smoked meats and creative sides. The standards Red White and Que is known for are brisket, pastrami, turkey, pork ribs, and beef ribs — most of which sell out completely each day. One new item that is sure to turn some heads is the sausage that is made with pork roll (aka Taylor ham) and cheese, which might be the most New Jersey BBQ item ever. (Pork roll / Taylor ham is a NJ specialty.)
“We just did a huge batch with two months’ worth so we could test it,” Misuraca said. “Now that we've had great feedback from it, that'll be on our menu with our regular jalapeno cheddar sausage.”
The new restaurant can hold up to 100 people, a massive upgrade from the takeout-only previous location. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)
While business has been good at the new location, Misuraca notes that his restaurant, like many, has not been immune to challenges that all eateries across the country are facing. These include inflation, a persistent labor shortage, and supply chain constraints. One example he noted is sourcing turkey, which is hard to get because of a devastating avian flu outbreak and other factors.
“The supply chain is definitely a problem,” Misuraca said. “There's no turkey. We haven’t been able to get turkey breasts for two weeks. That’s one of our best sellers daily. … And word is there might not be turkeys for Thanksgiving.”
Make sure you order a lot and be sure to try most of the meats at Red White and Que if you go. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)
Despite those challenges, Misuraca is optimistic about the future of Red White and Que’s journey in Green Brook.
“Everything is looking great,” Misuraca said. “We’re overwhelmingly busy, which is a great problem to have. We’re about to go into our fall hours, where we'll be closed Mondays and Tuesdays. We will do that until November or December, and then we’ll start ramping up again for springtime. We have nothing but exciting things to look forward to.”
Sean Ludwig
The Smoke Sheet and NYC BBQ
—The annual Sauce King NYC competition has just announced the winners of its for top barbecue and hot sauces.—
HOT OFF THE PRESS
The winners of the annual Sauce King NYC Awards were announced today and first revealed in The Smoke Sheet. Sauce King NYC, now in its third year, assembles judges from the culinary world to rate and honor top barbecue, hot, and more sauces from around the country. The Grand Champion Prize was awarded Harmacy Hot Sauce Co’s “Brimstone Rimjob” Pepper Sauce from Cookeville, Tennessee, which won over the judges with balanced heat, rich flavors, and a nice texture.
Other top Sauce King awards included Top Barbecue Sauce for BBQ Buddha’s Kansas City BBQ Sauce; Best Traditional Barbecue Sauce to OL'Chefskis BBQ’s Road House BBQ Sauce; Best Flavor Enhancer to B.T. Leigh's The Magical Mop; and Best Fruit BBQ Sauce to Linda's Pineapple Jerk Sauce. For the complete Sauce King NYC 2022 Awards list, including honorable mentions, noteworthy sauces, condiments, rubs, and the Metro NYC Startup Category winner, visit www.SauceKingNYC.com and read more in Friday's NYC BBQ Weekly newsletter.
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Kansas City BBQ pioneer Hayward Spears, who founded Hayward's Pit Bar B Que in 1972, passed away last week. Spears achieved barbecue fame but was also an influential community leader. “For the entirety of his career, he became an essential and reliable fixture in his community; he served as a Board Member of the Overland Park Chamber of Commerce, The Overland Park Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a member of the Foundation Board of the Johnson Country Community College,” his obituary reads. READ MORE.
After a two-year closure, Bubba’s Barbecue in North Charlotte, NC, has reopened with a few changes, including new staff, a simplified menu, and food packaged to go. “We have got the best customers in Charlotte, and a lot of them are coming back,” owner Ralph Miller told CharlotteFive. READ MORE.
ADDITIONAL READS
Pitmaster Erica Blaire Roby, a winner of BBQ Brawl and a friend of The Smoke Sheet, recently stopped by Good Morning America to drop some BBQ tips.
The famed Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) is adding a first-time-ever barbecue section to the event this October.
B4 Barbeque & Boba in Mabank, TX (Southeast of Dallas) has reopened after the operation shut down for being too successful, reports Texas Monthly.
The 6th Annual Houston BBQ Throwdown will return on November 20 after a two-year absence.
Getting the holiday guides started early, Food & Wine shared 22 of the best barbecue and grilling gifts you can give in 2022.
J.C. Reid reports in the Houston Chronicle on why turkey will be in short supply at barbecue joints this fall.
Eater D.C. shared insights and stories from the U.S. Senate’s annual bipartisan barbecue luncheon.
—Burt Bakman of Slab spoke to the L.A.Times about how he makes top-notch BBQ.—
WATCH
Is Slab the Best BBQ Brisket in LA? — LA Times Today
Burt Bakman, the owner and pitmaster of the restaurant Slab in Los Angeles, perfected his barbecue technique for a decade in his Studio City backyard. He joined the folks from the L.A. Times in their kitchen to show them how he is making Texas barbecue a Southern California staple. WATCH HERE.
LISTEN
Grant Basiliere of Que U BBQ — Tailgate Guys Radio
History was made at the 42nd American Royal World Series of BBQ at Kansas Speedway as Grant Basiliere of Que U BBQ pulled off an unbelievable first, winning both the Invitational and Open portions of the world’s largest competition. How did it happen? Who is Que U? On Episode 183 of the Tailgate Guys BBQ Podcast, we learn more about the executive chef from Gurney, Illinois, who is both talented and humble after an accomplishment that might never be equaled. Plus, Richard Fergola of Fergolicious BBQ and Greg Hastie from American Fire BBQ are bonus guests on the show. LISTEN HERE.
READ
The Secrets to Great Charcoal Grilling on the Weber: More Than 60 Recipes to Get Delicious Results From Your Grill Every Time — Bill Gillespie
Whether you aspire to be a pitmaster or simply want to host incredible backyard barbecues, Gillespie has all the tips, tricks, and insight to help you up your grilling game. From grill setup to final bites, this is your go-to guide for grilling like a champion. Inside, you’ll find delicious recipes for The Perfect Burger Every Time, Skirt Steak Cooked Directly on Hot Coals, Beer Can Chicken, and many more. ORDER HERE.
y this unique barbecue spin on a traditional Lebanese eggplant dip with Smoked Baba Ganoush. (Photo by Lauren Nagel)—
Smoked Baba Ganoush
By Bon Appeteach
Baba Ganoush is a popular Middle Eastern dish similar in color and texture to hummus that is typically served as an appetizer. This recipe includes eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and seasonings. Lauren Nagel of Bon Appeteach suggests trying the smoked version of this traditional Lebanese recipe by roasting the eggplant on a pellet smoker or wood-fired grill for a rich, creamy, and delicious way to enjoy this popular eggplant-based dip.
Learn more about Southside Market Barbeque.
—A lot of big barbecue events are happening this fall, so don't miss out. (Photo by Sean Ludwig)—
October 14-15, 2022: The Jack — Lynchburg, Tennessee
It's rare that whiskey-making takes a backseat to much of anything in Lynchburg, Tennessee. But “The Jack,” one of the top KCBS competitions annually, is an exception. For one weekend in October, barbecue competitors from around the world converge to wield their grilling and smoking expertise. On top of the competition, other events are held to provide a lively and fun atmosphere for families and friends. MORE INFO HERE.
October 16, 2022: New York City Wine & Food Festival Backyard BBQ — New York, New York
The New York City Wine & Food Festival will soon bring back the Backyard BBQ hosted by Andrew Zimmern. BBQ lovers will certainly enjoy all the awesome bites and drinks at this event. This will be one of the last big food events happening in the NYC area in 2022, so don’t miss out. (USE THE CODE NYCBBQ15 TO GET 15% OFF THE BACKYARD BBQ.) BUY TICKETS HERE.
October 22, 2022: GrillGirl X GrillGrate Women’s Grilling Clinic — Fort Myers, Florida
Grill Girl Robyn Lindars is teaming up with GrillGrate to host a Women’s Grilling Clinic at the Robot Ranch in Fort Myers, Florida. The goal of the Women’s Grilling Clinic is to teach women the fundamentals of grilling in a relaxed “Girls Night Out” Atmosphere. This class is for any woman who wants to learn how to grill, learn different styles of grilling, and try new recipes to remake at home. In addition to Robyn, instructors include Erica Blaire Roby, Sunny Moody, Brooke Lewis, and Ron Dimpflmaier. MORE INFO HERE.
October 22, 2022: World Championship Hot Wing Contest and Festival — Memphis, Tennessee
The 2022 World Championship Hot Wing Contest & Festival (WCHWCF) will take place Saturday, October 22 (11 a.m. – 7 p.m.) at Tiger Lane, on the grounds of the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis, TN. This will mark the 20th year of the festival, previously known as the Southern Hotwing Festival. Whether you like your wings grilled, smoked or fried, with seasonings that range from sweet to savory to exotic, there’s sure to be something for everyone. The event will benefit The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Memphis and will also include fun, family friendly activities such as the Kids Korner, the popular Corn Hole Tournament, and the Wing Eating Contest. MORE INFO HERE.
November 5-6, 2022: Texas Monthly BBQ Fest — Lockhart, Texas
Texas Monthly is excited to bring TM BBQ Fest to the city of Lockhart, the BBQ Capital of Texas. On November 5-6, the historical downtown and Lockhart City Park will create the backdrop for an expanded weekend festival, designed to celebrate many aspects of Texas barbecue. Expect tons of the best bites in Texas barbecue at the event. MORE INFO HERE.
November 4-6, 2022: Q BBQ Fest — Dallas, Texas
The Q BBQ Fest is coming to Texas. Join in the fun at the Miller Lite House at AT&T Stadium (home of the Dallas Cowboys) on November 4-6, 2022. Don’t miss this chance to grab an ice-cold brew and sample pure smoked bliss from award-winning pitmasters from across the country. MORE INFO HERE.
November 5-6, 2022: Texas Monthly BBQ Fest — Lockhart, Texas
Texas Monthly is excited to bring TM BBQ Fest to the city of Lockhart, the BBQ Capital of Texas. On November 5-6, the historical downtown and Lockhart City Park will create the backdrop for an expanded weekend festival, designed to celebrate many aspects of Texas barbecue. Expect tons of the best bites in Texas barbecue at the event. MORE INFO HERE.
November 11-12, 2022: Warriors BBQ Ribs Championship — Honolulu, Hawaii
Hawaii’s first ever KCBS-sanctioned BBQ competition will take place on Veterans Day Weekend with the debut event “Warrior BBQ Ribs Championship.” This contest will include 3-rounds of pork ribs at the beautiful beachside Kapiolani Regional Park on the island of Oahu. The cake is $10,000 in prize monies, and the event theme (“Honors-to-Others”) will not only seek to celebrate Hawaii’s diverse backyard barbecue scene but also bring special honors to veterans, active military, and first responders. MORE INFO HERE.
November 11-12, 2022: Bourbon & Barbeque Louisville — Louisville, Kentucky
Bourbon and barbecue aficionados will want to stop by this new festival in Louisville. The event will feature pitmasters from around the country and tons of bourbon samples. MORE INFO HERE.
November 11-13, 2022: KCBS World Invitational — Gadsden, Alabama
The Kansas City Barbeque Society’s biggest event for the rest of the year is the fourth annual KCBS World Invitational Barbeque Competition. The event will bring together top champion pitmasters to compete for the title of “KCBS World Champion.” This event will feature three full days of contests and events. There will be both an open contest and a Master Series contest. Plus, backyard teams will be eligible to compete in the open against Master Series teams without impacting their Backyard status. MORE INFO HERE.
November 18-20, 2022: Jacksonville BBQ Fest — Jacksonville, Florida
During the past few years, Florida has become an even bigger attraction for barbecue restaurants and events. The Jacksonville BBQ Fest, held at TIAA Bank Field (where the Jaguars play), is one event that brings barbecue fans together to get a taste of great local and national barbecue bites. On top of the top-notch food, there’s also live music and great drinks to enjoy. To get a taste of this event, be sure to read Ed Reilly’s recap of the Denver BBQ Festival, which is hosted by the same organizers. MORE INFO HERE.
November 19, 2022: Holy Smokes BBQ Festival — Charleston, South Carolina
Aaron Siegel and Taylor Garrigan of Home Team BBQ, Anthony DiBernardo of Swig & Swine, and Robert Moss, the Contributing BBQ Editor for Southern Living, have invited the leaders of the barbecue community from around the country to come together in Charleston on November 19th, 2022 at Riverfront Park. With live music playing on stage against the backdrop of the Cooper River, guests will have a unique opportunity to sample a range of barbecue styles from the group of renowned pitmasters. Expect to taste slow-smoked whole hog, pork and beef ribs, Texas-style brisket, smoked sausage, BBQ tacos, and much, much more. MORE INFO HERE.
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