Serving Up Some Smoke at Holy Smokes Barbeque

Kenny Garren and his business partner Brian Hume opened up the doors to in 2006. In July of this year, the restaurant moved to its new location at 1862 Auburn Road Suite 117. Don't be surprised if you see Kenny or his wife and kids helping out. I recently sat down with Garren to talk about Holy Smokes.

Patch: How did Holy Smokes get its start?

Kenny: Both Brian and I worked at InTouch Ministries in Atlanta and eight years ago I had the bright idea to cook turkey breasts for co-workers to make some extra money. Twenty-eight people took me up on the offer so I was up all night long cooking on a Big Green Egg. In January, our wheels started turning and we thought there may be something to this. We bought a commercial smoker and began catering for three years before opening our first location in 2006.

Patch: What is the best aspect of owning a barbeque restaurant?

Kenny: Working for myself and I'm doing what I love to do. It's the hardest work I've ever done but it's exactly what I'm supposed to be doing.

Patch: What is the most challenging aspect of owning Holy Smokes?

Kenny: Balancing work and family. Everything is a sacrifice. It has gotten better over the years but a lot of times the only time I see my family is here at the restaurant because I'm here all of the time.

Patch: What makes Holy Smokes Barbeque unique?

Kenny: Well we're closed on Sundays because we believe that the food tastes better Monday through Saturday. Of course we take pride in the food because I cook here the same way that I would cook for my family. I hope that comes across to the people eating at the restaurant.

Patch: What makes the Dacula community special?

Kenny: Both Brian's and my own family are involved with the community so we like our business being involved in the community. It just feels like home.

Holy Smokes Barbeque is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m.