Craving smoked meats and seafood? You're in luck: a new business has opened its doors at 1305 E. Jefferson St. in the Central District. Called Central Smoke, the restaurant replaces Seven Beef and says it offers a global menu "uniting eclectic flavors from the American South to Southeast Asia."
The eatery comes courtesy of the Saigon Siblings restaurant group, which also operates Ba Bar and Monsoon.
Starters include wood-fire grilled eggplant with rock fish jerky, smoked oysters with kimchi and fried artichoke. On the menu, look for main courses like the smoked pork spare ribs, beef short rib, wood-grilled salmon and tri tip steak. Stop by on Friday or Saturday to take advantage of the 20-hour smoked brisket special.
Thirsty? Try a signature cocktail like the rye-based John T. with cinnamon pecan simple syrup and vermouth; the Hops and Dreams with IPA beer, tequila, grapefruit and jalapeño cinnamon honey served on the rocks; or the Squarepants with mezcal, lime and pineapple molasses. Check out the menu here.
With a 3.5-star rating out of seven reviews on Yelp so far, Central Smoke has received solid feedback from diners.
Elle N., who reviewed the new spot on July 18, wrote, "Gorgeous patio seating on a lovely summer evening. We asked our server to recommend a few cocktails and everything she brought out was beautifully crafted and strong."
Yelper Chi-Chi O. added, “Amazing! Staff and servers were highly attentive, food was delicious and with each order, plating was impeccable, drinks were creative and delightful with each cocktail thoughtfully and carefully prepared.”
Intrigued? Stop in to try it for yourself. Central Smoke is open from 4 p.m.–midnight on Monday–Saturday and 11 a.m.–9 p.m. on Sunday.
