Texas barbecue joint from Saudi Arabia opens first Texas location in Fort Worth
“The best barbecue in the Middle East” is now open in Fort Worth.
Smokey Beards Q started with “Tony” Ramadani, who previously helped open Mamma Mia Italian Grill at 3124 E. Belknap St. The Italian restaurant closed after 19 years last February. Luckily, Ramadani plans to reopen the Belknap space with his Texas barbecue restaurant.
After 10 years in the North Texas pizza and pasta scene, Ramadani left in 2019 to bring Hill Country barbecue to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ramadani, his brother Sonny and former rapper Mutah Beale (also known as Napoleon of Tupac’s Outlawz) opened the Middle East restaurant.
Smokey Beards Q in Riyadh serves smoked brisket and ribs over acacia wood with house-made barbecue sauce, fries, beans, potato salad, mac and cheese and coleslaw.
After developing a celebrity following and being recognized as the best barbecue in Riyadh, Ramadani thinks Texans will like his barbecue too.
When will Smokey Beards Q in Fort Worth be open?
According to Smokey Beard’s Instagram, the restaurant’s soft opening begins on Jan. 29.
The joint will be open three days a week until its grand opening.
- Thursday, Jan. 29: 6 to 9 p.m.
- Friday, Jan. 30: 5 to 10 p.m.
- Saturday, Jan. 31: 5 to 10 p.m.
- Another soft opening is on Feb. 5 to 7, check Instagram closer to date for exact hours.
What’s on the menu at Smokey Beards Q?
Smokey Beards Q serves brisket and beef ribs — no pork.
The Texas location will smoke the meats in the classic Hill Country way with oak, pecan or hickory chips.
The meat rub is simple: Salt, pepper, garlic, paprika and a little cayenne.
Customers in Riyadh love the smoked brisket sandwiches and skin-on fries. There are also smoked meat platters and smoked rib platters as entrees.
Where to find Smokey Beards Q in Fort Worth
Customers can find Smokey Beards Q at 3124 E Belknap St. in Fort Worth.
Pro tip: arrive at opening or early to avoid Smokey Beards selling out.