The Atlanta culinary scene is buzzing with the news of a new player in town. Jonnetta Patton, the enterprising mother and manager of the R&B megastar Usher, has launched J's SmokeHouse, a food trailer that brings a refreshing twist to traditional barbecue. Patton, who previously founded J's Kitchen Culinary Incubator, aims to light up the local food truck landscape with a blend of classic and novel BBQ flavors. According to a report by FOX 5 Atlanta, J's SmokeHouse will offer not just time-honored barbecue but also innovative vegan options, catering to a diverse array of taste buds.
This is not Patton's first foray into the food industry. In 2016, she the DeKalb-based J's Kitchen Culinary Incubator was established to support budding chefs and caterers with necessary infrastructure and educational workshops. Later, she collaborated with HUNGRY, an online marketplace, to expand her support across the culinary community by connecting independent chefs with business opportunities. Furthermore, earlier this year, Patton was recognized by Sysco Foods at the Essence Festival's Women En Blanc Honors Brunch for her impactful journey in the culinary world. These milestones culminated in the creation of J's SmokeHouse, which made its debut to the public on August 2, at a 6 p.m. opening event in the Embry Hills neighborhood.
Pivoting back to Patton's latest mouth-watering venture, J’s Smokehouse is set to operate both as a mobile food trailer and as a brick-and-mortar establishment. As detailed by Atlanta News First, fans of slow-cooked BBQ meat and those who favor plant-based cuisine alike will find something to savor. The anticipation is high amongst Atlanta's food enthusiasts eager to experience Patton's blend of barbecue tradition and culinary innovation firsthand.
Jonnetta Patton is forging a path as an entrepreneurial force in Atlanta's vibrant food scene. As the mother of Usher, she has navigated the entertainment industry as a "momager" and now continues to make her mark in the realm of gastronomy. Whether it's a reflection of her management prowess or her ability to discern public taste, J's SmokeHouse could soon become a staple for those seeking the smoky flavors of Southern cuisine mixed with conscious, plant-based options. The restaurant and food truck location in Doraville on Friday, August 2, indicates a new chapter for Patton and a potential new favorite for local BBQ aficionados.
