Chef View – Smoky’s is Back and Better than Ever
By Chris Murphy
It is always great to reunite with an old friend. In Modesto, there are some legendary traditions and some of our restaurants bring back great memories. One in particular is Smoky’s. Dean Brenner opened the original Smokey’s in the early 60’s located near 5 points at 222 McHenry, it was a regular spot for many in Modesto, especially those that worked near downtown but soon, it attracted people from all over. Allen Beebe later purchased the business and Mike Nelson, who was operating the Velvet Creamery was asked to manage Smoky’s and in 1990 became the owner. Mike, who is the brother of Modesto entrepreneur Dan Costa has a lot of restaurant and food management skills, expanded Smokey’s while operating the Creamery and sold it 12 years later to build his dream, Mike’s Roadhouse on Dale Road. After selling the Roadhouse to have more family time, he opened smaller Mike’s Grillhouse and later sold that to his manager. All the while, one thing was a constant: great service, fantastic food, excellent customer service creating a space where people like to be. That is the Mike Nelson touch.
Darryl Johnson was a fan of Mike Nelson’s food since the early days of Mike’s Roadhouse on Dale Road and they have been friends for over 20 years. After Mike sold the Grillhouse, one thing led to another and in December 2017, they decided to team up to bring back the Smoky’s legend. Darryl had a family member that wanted to be in business and Mike Nelson was just the expert to partner with to start something new.
One thing is for sure, great restaurants have owners that have a passion. You either have passion for restaurants or not. Those that are passionate and run a smart well-managed restaurant will succeed and grow. Mike explains, “You need to enjoy doing what you do and you have to be hands on in this business, know your costs, your food and your customers”. With this solid foundation and a possibility for new growth with Darryl’s family, this is the right combination.
But none of this matters, unless the food blows your mind. It does.
The Smoky’s Hall of Fames are the Cowboy Burger, fresh Harris Ranch patties, loaded with onion rings, cheese and so much more. If you are wondering what to get on your first time there, get this. The Tri Tip Sandwich is fresh daily beginning at 7 am to be ready for lunch this is perfect for visit two. Now for visit three, you have to try the chili cheese dog. Served with a side of fresh chopped onions, this is a fresh Miller hot dog cooked to perfection. Is your mouth watering yet? What do drink, Smoky’s make fresh ice cream milk shakes. All those years at Velvet Creamery, Mike knows how to make a fantastic shake.
I can’t think of a better way to welcome back an old friend than with some of Modesto’s legendary BBQ treats, served by people you know and love. Morning commuters can rejoice as they have their own special Smoky’s / Clayton Coffee blend and they serve a full breakfast. Smokey’s is located on Bangs Road off of McHenry and if you don’t have time to stay for breakfast or lunch, call in and pre order your favorites and you can grab and go and enjoy this homemade goodness.
What make Mike the most happy? “To be doing this with friends and making new friends. We love it when kinds come in and they learn the stories and discover Smokey’s”
Smokey’s Grill
501 Bangs, Modesto CA 95358
209-554-6999
www.smokysgrill.com/
www.facebook.com/Smokys-Neighborhood-Grill-159626581305030/
Hours Mon – Sat 7 am – 3 pm
