Why I Closed My Food Truck - Smokin' Joe's Pit BBQ

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 26 дек 2024

Комментарии • 2,1 тыс.

  • @davidmcmichael8113
    @davidmcmichael8113 9 месяцев назад +38

    Joe so glad you were able to reopen serving your Amazing BBQ. Today the wife and I stopped bye and OMG the Brisket was So Damm Good. All Of Gods Blessings To You and the Family. We Will Be Back For Some More. Thanks Again Conroe TX

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  9 месяцев назад +6

      It was such a pleasure meeting you and your wife today. We appreciate you supporting our business. Travel safe and God willing we'll get a chance to meet again. 👍

    • @RM360CR
      @RM360CR 9 месяцев назад +1

      The era of cheap food specially cheap meat its over for example USA meat company goes to honduras destroys vast amount of rain forest to farm gmo soy and maiz and cattle to feed the apetite for cheap fast food in the USA creating waves of migrants..... On top of everything for decades if not centuries you ve ben using either slave labor or undocumented labor paying shittte wages with no benefits but what happen when the border is shut or you have to pay a proper wage for local people to live..

    • @officialfredreviews
      @officialfredreviews 9 месяцев назад +2

      I don't follow...Is the truck closed or open? Thx

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  9 месяцев назад +7

      @@officialfredreviews we're open

    • @MichaelGuziak
      @MichaelGuziak 8 месяцев назад +3

      >> * I've Been in 4 Businesses, in My Lifetime.. > It is Never Easy.. > Good Luck in Your Future.!!

  • @ArnieTex
    @ArnieTex 10 месяцев назад +461

    I made the same mistake back in 08-09 with too many menu items so many of us go thru that because we want to make everybody happy. I wont open another restaurant as much as I loved it and the customers too, but it was just so much work and time and working weekends when I wanted to be with the family. Great advice about less menu and keep it simple. You rock Joe, padelante!

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  10 месяцев назад +37

      Gracias Arnie! I appreciate you watching buddy.

    • @domenictv2880
      @domenictv2880 9 месяцев назад +33

      On the chef Gordon kitchen nightmare, the number 2 thing he always makes restaurants do is downsize the menu.

    • @_notbrandon
      @_notbrandon 9 месяцев назад +7

      Yall just need to say it, RUclips does better that a food truck lol

    • @lag1264
      @lag1264 9 месяцев назад +4

      Yooooo arnieeeeee I love watching your videos I make all your salsas and my wela lovesssss them thank you 🙏 god bless you

    • @mikeb1039
      @mikeb1039 9 месяцев назад +3

      Look at the book "80/20" if you still think about it. ;)

  • @Youtubeparolee
    @Youtubeparolee 9 месяцев назад +213

    Been there done that.
    After 25 years of a brick and mortar BBQ restaurant here in Alabama.
    I owned my own building but food prices have gotten way out of hand and being in a small town with customers you know by name is hard.
    You don’t want to pass on the inflated prices but you have too to survive.
    In the day of social media people talk as well.
    It’s hard to stay afloat these days. It was so easy in the 80’s, 90’s and early 2000’s.
    All you had to do back then was keep the irs and suppliers happy with being paid while the hard work rewarded you.
    Now it’s hard to keep everyone happy while staying afloat.
    I sleep so much better at night now.

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад +7

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too foreverw

    • @krane15
      @krane15 9 месяцев назад +2

      So basically it wasn't fun anymore?

    • @firegrillin365
      @firegrillin365 9 месяцев назад

      💯

    • @zerorush9296
      @zerorush9296 9 месяцев назад +15

      @@krane15 Dude mentions inflation and your question is "so it wasn't fun anymore"?

    • @VORcomputers
      @VORcomputers 9 месяцев назад +9

      The same thing happened to me a year ago but with a pizzeria. Even though I loved owning the pizzeria I also sleep better at night because of the crazy amount of stress, covid, big inflation, etc.

  • @ChefCoolT
    @ChefCoolT 8 месяцев назад +14

    I had a brick and mortar for 5 yrs never again. We moved into a food Trailer it’s been fantastic

    • @stkbloc9717
      @stkbloc9717 2 месяца назад +1

      So it’s better to just start off with a food truck

  • @MacDowin
    @MacDowin 9 месяцев назад +66

    Hey man, I want to thank you. My wife and I (along with our kittens) stopped by your truck last October. We were traveling across the US and your truck was the first Texas barbecue we had ever had. It was amazing. Food was so good. You were even kind enough to show us how you cooked some of the food. I could hear your barbecue passion when talking to you. I wish you well for whatever the future holds. You make good food. Thanks again.

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  9 месяцев назад +3

      Thank you so much.

    • @tina8796
      @tina8796 9 месяцев назад

      Ahhh. That's sweet. We love our Persians, too. Although our fur babies don't like traveling

  • @johanmarvin8040
    @johanmarvin8040 9 месяцев назад +33

    God bless you sir. I'm a fledgling BBQ Co operator, and this video gave me the best insight to growing my business during these overly expensive times. Thank you so much, and stay cooking brother!! You are meant to be blessed and serve the people your great food! Much love💪💪

  • @robertjason6885
    @robertjason6885 10 месяцев назад +203

    Joe, with your fans, there is ZERO question regarding your expertise and INTEGRITY. Rock ON, brother.

    • @frogmantoad8110
      @frogmantoad8110 10 месяцев назад

      BBQ will be free! From the river to the sea! 🎉🎉😂😂

    • @mattg7271
      @mattg7271 9 месяцев назад

      @@frogmantoad8110 not funny, f uck off

    • @myzzery1
      @myzzery1 9 месяцев назад

      I'm questioning it

    • @felixnieves1589
      @felixnieves1589 3 месяца назад +1

      Family is so important to but this economy is suck. I Never see this price... I don't know if I covid got something to do but this is a terrible situation

  • @robshowtos478
    @robshowtos478 10 месяцев назад +80

    Had my own coffee house over 20 years ago. I understand the emotions you are going through right now. One of the hardest times in my life was when I knew I had to shut it down. Keep the faith brother! You will survive this and come back just fine. Be glad you didn't go brick and mortar. I did brick and mortar and wish I had done the portable unit. The stress would have been less if I didn't have a mortgage on a building that was not producing income. God Bless you and know that you are not alone.

    • @alexs.2414
      @alexs.2414 10 месяцев назад +2

      What was running a coffee shop like sir??

    • @robshowtos478
      @robshowtos478 10 месяцев назад +11

      @@alexs.2414 Stressful. I had a fulltime job as well. I wouldn't do it again. I have a lot of respect for the people who have made it in the food business and compassion for those who have tried.

    • @larentaestamuyalta6132
      @larentaestamuyalta6132 10 месяцев назад

      Mortgage would be pay off

    • @sundawgf22
      @sundawgf22 9 месяцев назад

      Say barbecue food truck again

    • @markcab2055
      @markcab2055 9 месяцев назад +1

      Well he said $10000 a month for 2500 sq. ft, that is insane, I mean double insane, I was buying a fish and chips place, and backed off for the same reason, either I own the land or no go.

  • @scottraridon5224
    @scottraridon5224 9 месяцев назад +13

    Joe I sincerely appreciate your honesty and heart felt words. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

  • @mermaidtails4391
    @mermaidtails4391 9 месяцев назад +77

    I know a pair of sisters who opened a traveling hotdog stand about 15 years ago. They have one type of hotdog, an assortment of condiments, one type of baked beans, an assortment of chips, sodas and water. That’s it. And they do great! Many people don’t want to be overwhelmed by choices. So keeping their menu the way it is, eliminated that, especially when you’re on a work break and just need something fairly quick without gawking at a menu and trying to decide what to get.

    • @akeem2752
      @akeem2752 9 месяцев назад +8

      That sounds like a great model. I've been on the same block for 20+ years now and there's a woman that comes and sells elotes everyday at the park in nice weather, she always has a line of people. It's very very cheap to produce/sale, great location for traffic, and there's no competition other than an occasional ice cream truck or event.

    • @timothywallace5507
      @timothywallace5507 9 месяцев назад +4

      Raising canes in n out, chic fil a all the same. Simple and they make a killing.

    • @ISATŌP1
      @ISATŌP1 9 месяцев назад +6

      Yep, I have a Hot Dog concession cart with a 36" griddle, Warming Box, and a 5 bay steam table in which I offer a Regular Hot Dog, and a 1/4 Lb. Hot Dog, with a choice of 21 Toppings and a Slew of Condiments and Sauces....
      And Water, Capri Sun, and Chips....!!
      Easy process that allows the customer to create their own hot dog!!

    • @simonnicoll4922
      @simonnicoll4922 9 месяцев назад

      Simplicity is the key, I’m about to embark on opening my own place, and it’s going to be simple BBQ sandwiches and sausage, buying in whole fore quarter, BBQing chuck roasts and arm roasts for pulled beef, sell the ribeyes as steaks separately. The ribs and brisket can be saved for later cooks and all the trim and rest goes into sausage. You have to think outside the box I think…. That’s the theory anyway. Sorry to hear about the business.

    • @boronda420-7
      @boronda420-7 9 месяцев назад

      Cool story bro.

  • @WookieLove1
    @WookieLove1 9 месяцев назад +40

    Joe I've followed you for years and you've helped my cooking so much that I just want to say thanks and show some support brother. Much love to you and the fam

  • @phillipcarroll6625
    @phillipcarroll6625 10 месяцев назад +148

    Menu size is a mistake many businesses make. You live and learn. Keep your head up! There's no shame in closing a business for the right reasons. You'll bounce back.

    • @mastery4living187
      @mastery4living187 10 месяцев назад +3

      Yeah the menu for The Cheesecake Factory is a frickin nightmare. I know I want when I visit, so I don't even look at the thing.

    • @truthsRsung
      @truthsRsung 10 месяцев назад

      It is too bad that there is no advertising money at the BBQ Equipment Manufacturers to Subsidize the Business' Profit Margin.
      As a Influencer, with a Trailer, and a forklift, etc, etc...
      You will find a way to keep your family close while you make a living, somehow.

    • @Robertsvideos1
      @Robertsvideos1 10 месяцев назад

      Very true

    • @truthsRsung
      @truthsRsung 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@Robertsvideos1 ...Is is True that a man with a Mobile Food Service just used Location as a Factor in their Failure?

    • @JayBigDadyCy
      @JayBigDadyCy 10 месяцев назад

      @@mastery4living187 Ya their menu is massive. They are the only successful restaurant I can think of with such an expansive menu. Typically the opposite is the way to go, even though most newer restaurant owners don't seem to understand that. They try to please everyone, which is impossible.

  • @eugenepage7248
    @eugenepage7248 10 месяцев назад +85

    Thank you for your honesty, my wife and I run a small BBQ catering business up here in Wyoming. We were seriously considering a food truck and have been approached to set up a brick and mortar but we have decided to just stick with catering for all the reasons you listed. Thank you Joe.

    • @williamwalsh1533
      @williamwalsh1533 10 месяцев назад +1

      Wow that's great, BBQ and Wyoming never crossed my mind.

    • @eugenepage7248
      @eugenepage7248 10 месяцев назад +4

      @@williamwalsh1533 Wyoming is a difficult place to start a BBQ business. When you have 8 months of winter with winds reaching over 50+mph on a regular basis. On top of that with one of our smokers being a large trailer mounted cabinet smoker, trying to source good smoking wood at a reasonable price is next to impossible. Being originally from NC Pecan was my wood of choice. One place in Colorado was asking 650 bucks for a 1/4 cord of Pecan. I got lucky and was able to have a friend bring me up a full cord of Hickory from Texas for 300 bucks. For small catering gigs we stick with our Drum smokers which turns out fantastic BBQ. So with that being said along with all the other factors that Joe said, we decided to stick with just catering and word of mouth. Just last week we had winds in the 90 mph range.

    • @williamwalsh1533
      @williamwalsh1533 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@eugenepage7248 Thanks. As far as wind is concerned Chicago is no match in comparison to where you live!

    • @truthsRsung
      @truthsRsung 10 месяцев назад

      ​@@williamwalsh1533...It never crossed my mind that someone with a Mobile Food Service would use Location as an Excuse for their Failure.
      Or their unwillingness to adjust to market price trends.
      I have seen menus with "current market value" in the price column.
      Honest. Ha.

    • @frank3989
      @frank3989 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@eugenepage7248 Here in Northern Nevada we have really bad winds also, hard to set up sometimes...

  • @mariojuana
    @mariojuana 10 месяцев назад +83

    to open a business and then have to close it eventually is still a huge huge accomplishment. youre living life!

  • @RobSpicolli-bi3iu
    @RobSpicolli-bi3iu 9 месяцев назад +56

    I learned something VERY important from my late veteran father when I was 13 y.o. I'm 62 now.
    My father said people will pay a little extra for QUALITY (food, service, etc) It has proven itself MANY times over
    Good luck with your NEXT venture🇺🇸
    Blessings
    🙏

    • @sadtiger2022
      @sadtiger2022 9 месяцев назад +8

      So true! You get what you pay for and it's worth every penny!

    • @royhill9892
      @royhill9892 9 месяцев назад +4

      They will actually pay a lot.... Look at Starbucks!

    • @mostlypeacefulguntraining
      @mostlypeacefulguntraining 9 месяцев назад +4

      @@royhill9892 thats all marketing and making it "cool". thats not a better quality product. terrible argument

    • @avstryker
      @avstryker 9 месяцев назад +5

      Problem is that with Inflation, Food Costs and expensive labor .. we are paying a lot for even low quality fast food garbage.

    • @luigivincenz3843
      @luigivincenz3843 9 месяцев назад +2

      True. My big brother owned 3 restaurants. and personally, when I eat at a nice restaurant, it's NOT the food per se. It's the service I look at FIRST. The food takes care of itself.

  • @robertmartin9723
    @robertmartin9723 10 месяцев назад +45

    Keep your head up Brother. I have followed you for a long time. You have always been open and honest. God Bless you. Take care of your family. Thank you for the wonderful information about the BBQ industry. We need that honesty. Too many times we only hear about all the good and success. No one talks about the real things that could affect a business or relationships. Keep smoking Joe. We love you.

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  10 месяцев назад +4

      Thank you so much Robert. 👍

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too forever❤m

  • @PumpkinKingXXIII
    @PumpkinKingXXIII 10 месяцев назад +55

    Good luck Joe!
    My buddy just ended up changing his food truck model. Found a good/ good spot in some commercial real estate. He kept the truck to cook so he didn’t have to improve a rental property. The building was his commissary, and he moved his POE and got some warmers so he could serve from there and all weather seating. He just became jaded how much weather could crush his sales. He would go from a 1200-1500 day to a 200 dollar day.

    • @mikeb1039
      @mikeb1039 9 месяцев назад +3

      Not that much different in brick/mortar. Even rain means it's going to be slow.

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too forever,

  • @NightTrainRides
    @NightTrainRides 10 месяцев назад +36

    That sucks man. I own a chicken restaurant myself and I'm getting ready to venture into bbq. I agree with you on the menu. That kills lots of businesses along with the ever increasing price of the cost of goods.
    I pray that you recover quickly and find much success in your next endeavor. Thanks for the knowledge and the transparency. Good luck to you.

    • @KayJay940
      @KayJay940 9 месяцев назад

      The problem with good bbq is the entire point is it lasts for days.
      But aint no one wanting to pay for bbq not made within hours.
      Its counter intuitive so you really have to be able to dial in your food cost and labor ... it takes 8 -10 hour just to cook.

  • @melvingibson4525
    @melvingibson4525 9 месяцев назад +12

    That's exactly what i was thinking about realistically running a bbq food truck. Limited menu that's easy to execute and not being wholly reliant on this food truck always being in service. The positive you can take from this is that you gained a ton of knowledge man and we appreciate you sharing it with us

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too forever❤n

  • @Drdan-i6e
    @Drdan-i6e 9 месяцев назад +7

    You are 100% right, rental spaces are out of sight expensive, that’s why they sit vacant for many months and years.

  • @foodonfire3662
    @foodonfire3662 10 месяцев назад +67

    Yours is one of the few RUclips BBQ channels I stayed with after Covid. This is because of your cooking and my perception of your character. I wish you the best.❤

  • @stevend8785
    @stevend8785 10 месяцев назад +98

    CPA here. I can’t think of a harder business than the restaurant industry, especially BBQ. You are trying to sell brisket that’s $70 a hunk and you have to cook it 12 hours. There is a reason a bunch of restaurants sell things like chicken fingers. They’re cheap and anyone can fry them in 10 minutes.

    • @cyrix_1
      @cyrix_1 9 месяцев назад +3

      You don’t need to cook it 12 hours. You can microwave it and it can be cooked in 1/8 of the time.

    • @fluffywaffles
      @fluffywaffles 9 месяцев назад +11

      Oh Kim...

    • @summondominion
      @summondominion 9 месяцев назад +8

      I own 6 food trucks we did 1.2 million in sales last year. What youre serving matters. I have basically zero food loss bc of our model and ive always said bar b que is one of the stupidest ideas for a restaurant or food truck. All of our food is made on the spot as its ordered. We dont uch sitting in warmers except doing big festivals. Being able to work a crowd and guaging how much to make and when to stop is critical. But you can't do that with bar b que which is why id never do it. On top of it being exspensive honestly 9/10 ppl bar b que is trash

    • @eddeleon4108
      @eddeleon4108 9 месяцев назад +1

      😂😂😂😂​@@fluffywaffles

    • @TexasGiftmaster
      @TexasGiftmaster 9 месяцев назад

      @@summondominion Another know it all who doesn't know how to make a point without being a dick about it.

  • @migueljimenez3036
    @migueljimenez3036 9 месяцев назад +20

    Bro I appreciate this sincere video and I’m in California. Your honesty speaks volumes of your creator. I wish u peace and good luck. Hope u can restart your food service. I’m sure it’s delicious! God bless hermano

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too forever❤n

  • @GardenerEarthGuy
    @GardenerEarthGuy 9 месяцев назад +10

    I did sandwich lunch bags for some time, only 3 choices- made it super easy to keep material costs down.
    If the customer didn't like 1 2,3- too bad.

  • @aldickey570
    @aldickey570 9 месяцев назад +9

    My heart goes out to you my brother me and my wife just closed our restaurant behind similar things. Keep pushing keep your head up and it’s not a lost it’s a learning experience. You will get something going bigger if you want from your learning experience my brother 🙏🏾🙏🏾 God bless you,family,and your next venture!

  • @PYTHON7403
    @PYTHON7403 10 месяцев назад +11

    Your honesty is impeccable, thank you for your content keep on cooking

  • @EllaJeansCafe
    @EllaJeansCafe 7 месяцев назад +5

    I closed my cafe in 2017. The cost of food and the upkeep of my building was overwhelming. I wish you the best in whatever you decide to do.

  • @bmountainboy
    @bmountainboy 10 месяцев назад +4

    Joe you are one of the great bbq guys on RUclips that have inspired me to get into bbq as a hobby. Everything from your how to videos, to your recipes. We as viewers should feel blessed for all the amazing videos you have created. Family is truly important! I’m sure you will be just fine and get back in it when the time is right for you! God bless you and your beautiful family.

  • @NickyM1964
    @NickyM1964 9 месяцев назад +5

    2018 my wife retired and bought a food truck and I really didnt get the attraction but I fully supported her, worked with her and maintained the equipment etc...... waaaaaaaaay too much work and too little profit, she sold it a year and a half later at a BIG loss....

  • @Pancito49
    @Pancito49 9 месяцев назад +6

    I seen where food trucks would make a deal with a bar that didn’t have a kitchen and he’d park there in the evening and sell his food. Think outside the box. Maybe talk to others who offer different menus and group together on a lot or somewhere you’ll bring in more customers to the area. I knew a guy in Columbia who went to the U. S. and bought 2 of those hotdogs wagons he did very well. He also had to change directions to the hotdogs. Good luck

    • @HeatherGemmen
      @HeatherGemmen 7 месяцев назад

      Our local microbrewery doesn't have a kitchen, so food trucks are there every night. They first provided menus to the local restaurants who delivered, but the food trucks seem to be the big draw.

  • @ashbucharon8263
    @ashbucharon8263 9 месяцев назад +5

    In the old days, the family lived upstairs of the restaurant, and they were all there together all the time. I have over 5 children, when the children are 18 they know every aspect of the business and it can be expanded into construction/electrical, air conditioning, carpentry, brick, conctrete, painting , cleaning, restaurant design, machinery installation and repairs......... It is a free university for independence from being an employee dependent on others, when there is less and less work every day. It is a win win situation, I am with my family and preparing them for life.

  • @805BBQJUNKIE
    @805BBQJUNKIE 10 месяцев назад +24

    You know bro that happened to me when I had my taco business. Don't feel so bad about it. You will eventually get back to the grind it's just a small break, take care carnal

  • @Tjdiamond26
    @Tjdiamond26 10 месяцев назад +4

    I have been a fan for over 7 years now. I have learned so much from you. Food costs r crazy even if we prepare our own food. Good luck in ur future endeavors.

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too foreverw

  • @gregsadams
    @gregsadams 9 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you Joe I really appreciate all your videos you're a very sincere smart person. Praying for you and your family, keep your head up and keep going. When one door closes another one opens!

  • @dobberdop
    @dobberdop 6 месяцев назад +1

    Stopping with what you love is not a failure but courage. The lessons are valuable and you can learn from it, it are life lessons.
    You did open once your FT, and nobody can't take that away.

  • @nabi5864
    @nabi5864 9 месяцев назад +5

    I closed down my food stalls, virtual kitchen, and mobile trailer....Even though I was swamped with people ordering ... YES THE SAME, COST OF FOOD, LABOR(CALIFORNIA), and VARIOUS PERMITS State and LOCAL TAXES....Just didn't make any sense when we crunched the numbers

    • @steveo2226
      @steveo2226 9 месяцев назад +2

      I live in California as well. I'm an electrician who was fortunate to not miss 1 day off work due to the States insane covid policy's. Unfortunately I witnessed so many small businesses collapse , amazing mom and pop spots destroyed by the state. Very sad stuff. I can't believe how many folks have already forgotten the devastation small minded politicians caused small business owners. It's potentially the cruelest thing I've witnessed. Anyways cheer's

  • @brianveestrom6784
    @brianveestrom6784 10 месяцев назад +21

    You are re-opening this weekend! (March 1-2) Saw that on instagram/facebook. Winter time and economics are powerful challenges. Just like your BBQ Central interviews, you talk from the heart and are honest. Cheers to health and family. Best wishes for your refreshed menu.

    • @rotaryperfection
      @rotaryperfection 10 месяцев назад +2

      Damn! I'm gonna be in El Paso the following weekend for Monster Jam. Would have definitely stopped by to show my support. 😞

    • @brianveestrom6784
      @brianveestrom6784 10 месяцев назад +1

      @@rotaryperfection If you are going to be in El Paso on friday or saturday next week stop by Joes truck. If he is open you will be in for a treat. I would bet he will be open, you lucky ducky!

    • @arturoholguin4302
      @arturoholguin4302 10 месяцев назад +3

      Lets all get together show some support for Joe

    • @Lettuce-and-Tomatoes
      @Lettuce-and-Tomatoes 10 месяцев назад +4

      Are you saying that he just made this video about closing down yesterday and he’s instantly changing his mind and re-opening? 🤔

    • @JG-id5vi
      @JG-id5vi 10 месяцев назад +1

      It's restaurants in general. Food costs are too high and people on the lower economic levels are not really eating out. Here in massachusetts restaurants are closing left and right. Restaurants that have been open for 90-100 years even. All within the past 2 - 3 months. It's been a blood bath

  • @billblack2871
    @billblack2871 9 месяцев назад +4

    Apologies, Joe. I reside in El Paso and was unaware of your food truck. I am a barbecue enthusiast and would have relished the opportunity to sample your culinary creations. I extend my best wishes for your continued success and pray for blessings upon you and your family.

  • @andrews4264
    @andrews4264 10 месяцев назад +2

    Joe, you did it, you came, you conquered, you still rock at BBQ. Your transparency is intriguing, super interesting to hear what happened. I look forward to more videos, you are the man.

  • @edwardgordon4309
    @edwardgordon4309 7 месяцев назад

    As a retired chef of many decades, I still love to watch different chefs and their methods. Joe, you have been one of my favorite bbq youtubers. You're very talented and just seem like a good guy. I'm sorry to hear of your truck closing. I wish you well with your future and hope you stay in bbq in some way or another.

  • @ericousleyjr9119
    @ericousleyjr9119 10 месяцев назад +13

    It’s a tough business because as someone who’s done just some bbq cooks on the side a lot of people don’t realize how much work goes into cooking for people! From picking up your products to the time and fuel put into cooking your products. People just don’t see that so they don’t understand. You’re a winner to me brother because you went out and did it. I was too afraid to fully commit because some of the cooks I did for customers left me feeling unfulfilled so I’m not sure I want to even continue. Experience is one of the greatest teachers in life and you should definitely feel accomplished.

    • @williamwalsh1533
      @williamwalsh1533 10 месяцев назад +2

      Customers just see the finished product. There's this on cafe that I get a brisket sandwich from and it takes them 13 hours to cook the meat.

    • @AZTombstone792
      @AZTombstone792 10 месяцев назад +2

      I never appreciated BBQ until I tried to make it myself. Even making it myself it is expensive with all the extras like Joe said, wood, charcoal, BBQ sauce, seasonings, protiens, and the waste with the trimmings of the meats and the time involved. AND my BBQ is never as good as a pro...not even close. Now I don't mind paying for someone else to make my BBQ.

  • @Fitforacting
    @Fitforacting 9 месяцев назад +27

    I’m excited for you Joe! With every door closed, another opens.
    Now you can do so many other things besides running the business and having fun with your family.
    1. Maybe travel to other states and review other spots
    2. Do a Collab with other chefs, especially the top ones and social media.
    3. Family, fun, barbecue videos that kids can do with their parents.
    4. Show people how to save the most money by getting creative with their cooking.
    5. Maybe write an e-book on how to create a successful business.

    • @willywatkins-zh9xd
      @willywatkins-zh9xd 9 месяцев назад +2

      and make sure u vote for the other guy this time ...

    • @ChargersCity
      @ChargersCity 9 месяцев назад +1

      🙏🙏Blessings forever GOD loves y'all too forever tell everyone you know and don't know. Jesus loves y'all too forever. Teach everyone how to see and enjoy their blessings too forevera

    • @Fitforacting
      @Fitforacting 9 месяцев назад +1

      @@willywatkins-zh9xd fake accounts trolling

  • @vaylon1701
    @vaylon1701 9 месяцев назад +3

    I am a purchasing agent for a major grocery chain and the prices we have to pay can only be described as insane. These large food corporations are making huge profits and blame the prices on the growers and farms, even the farmers at all levels are making a killing. Its crazy. I have four corporate farms and ranches near my home and they are trying to expand because people just keep paying top dollar like there is no tomorrow. All it is , is pure greed from everyone in the chain.

  • @jid2905
    @jid2905 8 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for sharing this with us. One thing in common of a BBQ pitmaster is the willingness to help. You are a true pitmaster buddy!! Hold your head high and thank you for sharing your knowledge

  • @davidgabrie1302
    @davidgabrie1302 9 месяцев назад +2

    Just saw your video, and I wish you the best. In Seattle it’ll tough to find a good BBQ restaurant. I finally found one that is a sit down restaurant. I know meat is expensive so I don’t mind paying more. Best of luck to you!

  • @topherbec7578
    @topherbec7578 10 месяцев назад +4

    I've cut back on barbecuing for myself because of the prices much less buying BBQ.

  • @rkooscar6866
    @rkooscar6866 9 месяцев назад +4

    Just came across your channel. Can’t believe this is the first video I see. Love your channel

  • @ralphadams4478
    @ralphadams4478 9 месяцев назад +6

    Your competition is behind your troubles as far as rumors

  • @viprcuisine241
    @viprcuisine241 2 месяца назад

    Thank you so much for sharing your story!!!
    It serves as an inspiration and lesson. Thank you so much for sharing your tips!!!
    Most importantly, CONGRATULATIONS on Texas monthly and your other accomplishments!

  • @jedicouncil66
    @jedicouncil66 10 месяцев назад +11

    My brother was a regular of yours and is devastated to hear this, as are we all. I am going to do my own BBQ joint also and would love a video of do's and dont's from you. Thank you for everything, even though I have never tasted your amazing BBQ.

  • @irmaglover2666
    @irmaglover2666 9 месяцев назад +11

    Hi Joe. I also had a food business for ten years, experienced the rise of prices, and finally decided to close. Too much work and effort, very little profit. God bless you abundantly.😍

  • @SuperBoomshack
    @SuperBoomshack 9 месяцев назад +4

    Here in Florida, you realize things are corrupt/disturbing when a pack of bologna is 5 dollars. You can't make this stuff up.

  • @juanbotello1
    @juanbotello1 9 месяцев назад +1

    I was an owner/operator truck driver and I totally understand you, brother. It’s gotten very expensive to operate and prices aren’t coming down. I had to quit and go work as a company driver. It was very heartbreaking but I’m hopeful that better times will come and we’ll be back starting our businesses again.

  • @alastairbennett6080
    @alastairbennett6080 7 месяцев назад +1

    Hi, I just saw the video now, I'm sorry you had to close, I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision.
    I've been watching you from afar (South Africa) and have been inspired buy what you have been doing. Thanks for the videos and your candid insights, I love that you mentioned to start with only a couple of proteins instead of the whole farm. I myself am just starting out with my own diy smoker and have the jitters of buying all the tools and buying all the different proteins and making all the different sides, I know I need it to grow organically but get inspired and aspire to do what you guys are doing(knowing that our market here is very different to yours, proteins are expensive and soring unemployment). Thanks again, what you said allows me to retrain my thoughts and use what I have till I grow.
    I hope you don't stay away too long and everything of the best to you and your family in whatever you decide to do going forward, very best regards Alastair

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  7 месяцев назад

      Thank you. We actually reopened March 1st but with only 2 proteins and things are going good so far. Start slow and add items as you get acclimated. Good luck my friend.

  • @thomaschambers2673
    @thomaschambers2673 9 месяцев назад +26

    I heard you won 2 million dollars in a Las Vegas casino and ran off with a showgirl 😂

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  9 месяцев назад +12

      🤣

    • @JuniorHuerraa
      @JuniorHuerraa 7 месяцев назад +2

      Ran off maybe a fast Walk he has been eating BBQ no real running being done

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  7 месяцев назад +2

      @JuniorHuerraa Zip it Junior!🤣

  • @Capt083
    @Capt083 9 месяцев назад +12

    Prices through the roof thanks creepy joey.

  • @WarrenPuffet
    @WarrenPuffet 9 месяцев назад +5

    It’s difficult to raise prices to meet inflation, this is what’s hurting a lot of businesses. You almost have to update your prices monthly to keep up. Hopefully we can vote the current uni-party out of power and get our economy back on track, things are looking grim for all small business owners.

  • @michaeljmccurdy9449
    @michaeljmccurdy9449 9 месяцев назад +1

    I've seen several roadside BBQ setups that were nothing more than a simple, two-wheel smoker-trailer and a cooler with some drinks. They sell out too. I spent a lot of time and money trying to get a roadside BBQ business going but then COVID hit and my plans crumbled but I was making it all too complicated. If I were to tackle that venture again, I would try just the simple smoker-trailer. Also, my brother told me about a guy who consistently made around $120,000/yr selling nothing but a $5 sandwich and a drink at a huge 4-wheeler park in Kentucky. He retired very comfortably last year.

  • @Efendi_
    @Efendi_ 7 месяцев назад +2

    I have a suggestion for you. On top of the two items you will sell in the future, you can add one item, but you can make it a seasonal item-or a special events like Christmas. You add one extra item and experiment with which item sells the most.
    If you're going to make changes in menu in the future

  • @RAM7RO_BU1LD3
    @RAM7RO_BU1LD3 9 месяцев назад +142

    Vote TRUMP 2024

    • @clarissaturcios2346
      @clarissaturcios2346 9 месяцев назад +26

      What can he do? He is the reason for inflation he gave out stimulus checks and tax cuts for the rich and sent inflation to the roof

    • @mikeramirez4405
      @mikeramirez4405 9 месяцев назад

      Dude stop, no politians republicans or Democrat are coming to your rescue.

    • @gregoryrobinson8193
      @gregoryrobinson8193 9 месяцев назад +1

      Sleepy Joe has ruined this country and continues too put us citizens in danger

    • @jaypesos6788
      @jaypesos6788 9 месяцев назад +4

      😅we are fked either way

    • @CokeZorro
      @CokeZorro 9 месяцев назад

      How delusional, Trump is gonna lose by even more. No sane people will vote for Trump

  • @lioneatsthesheep8996
    @lioneatsthesheep8996 9 месяцев назад +13

    Blame the Democratic party and Joe Biden
    I am a business owner as well, but I have never had such troubling times.
    When the consumers are scrambling to make ends meet, it's expected that consumerism halts.
    Good luck with your future endeavors.

  • @AA-BB
    @AA-BB 9 месяцев назад +21

    Did you vote yourself out of business?

    • @eckharttolle-nq7qu
      @eckharttolle-nq7qu 9 месяцев назад +7

      LUV ❤ TRUMP - INFLATION WAS LOW

    • @12time12
      @12time12 9 месяцев назад

      So, we’ve already established that you don’t comprehend basic economics like most conservatives. Trump spent $8 trillion in four years, in addition to cutting taxes resulting in trillions being added to the M2 (mostly to the detriment of everyone not part of the 1%). Trump has far more blame for inflation than Biden, but they both share some blame as president. We also don’t live on an island world, inflation happening in the international markets will affect our economy. Shocking, I know.

    • @atlasadonis3752
      @atlasadonis3752 9 месяцев назад +5

      ​@@eckharttolle-nq7qu $6.2 trillion had nothing to do with inflation?

    • @YourLocalRussianNegro
      @YourLocalRussianNegro 8 месяцев назад

      I doubt it.

    • @apersonontheinternet8006
      @apersonontheinternet8006 6 месяцев назад

      @@atlasadonis3752 you mean when the left decided to shut everything down then spend incessantly and Trump said he wouldn’t sign another bill like that again? Weird how leftoid freaks like to lie by omission and twist the facts all the time.

  • @ThomasNappo
    @ThomasNappo 8 месяцев назад +1

    JOE your the real deal..its sad you have to shut down..but your 100% correct..Prices are crazy..good luck on next adventure

  • @Unfluencer
    @Unfluencer 9 месяцев назад +1

    people need to quit eating out every meal. its a treat. like going to smoking joes. hope you come back!

  • @kiwiwelch3620
    @kiwiwelch3620 9 месяцев назад +36

    Its just Democrat policy at work

    • @derekallen1994
      @derekallen1994 9 месяцев назад

      Because businesses only close during a democratic presidential run. No businesses closed when Trump was in office

    • @davidjones8356
      @davidjones8356 9 месяцев назад

      Which policy would that be genius? Magat aren’t the brightest bulbs in the box.

    • @MATTINTEXAS19
      @MATTINTEXAS19 9 месяцев назад +10

      He lives in Texas. The House, Senate, Governor, Lt Governor, Courts, and law enforcement is all Republican. Big city politicians have next to no say in any of the mentioned above. So it is and will always be Republican policies that kill the blue collar. If he was a major corp or oil company, he would have all the breaks.

    • @serglibrehotfuzz3202
      @serglibrehotfuzz3202 9 месяцев назад

      Democrocy,its all an illusion.the government as a whole are in it to due us in..

    • @txrick4879
      @txrick4879 9 месяцев назад +4

      They have no vote till they get citizenship. I live on the border and it is law .

  • @Hmetalz
    @Hmetalz 6 месяцев назад +4

    I really hope you all really evaluate the prices and economic situation when you vote this time. Even a diehard leftist must realize this wont work. How long can we stand these prices??? You may not like Trump, but he really is the best option we have. God bless America!

  • @hellokitty19824321
    @hellokitty19824321 9 месяцев назад +34

    Bidenomics

  • @tonyhunterajh
    @tonyhunterajh 4 месяца назад +1

    I enjoy your videos and I feel your pain. Take a break, reset, and do what is best for you and your family.

  • @helidude3502
    @helidude3502 9 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you for this.
    Too many people have no clue what it takes to operate a business.
    They just think if you own one that you’re automatically rich.
    I didn’t have the pleasure of tasting your food.
    But thank you for sharing a basic reality that unfortunately too many are facing now.
    I wish you luck in your future endeavors.
    👍😎

  • @BasedPajeet
    @BasedPajeet 9 месяцев назад +8

    Hope voting for biden was worth it lol , vote blue no matter who lol.

    • @erasmoganceres4376
      @erasmoganceres4376 9 месяцев назад

      Hell yea. Biden all the way. Our economy is way better compared to Trump. Trump had the 2nd worst economy in American history.

  • @chascollette
    @chascollette 9 месяцев назад +11

    Bidenomics!!

    • @Noe-fs5ik
      @Noe-fs5ik 9 месяцев назад +1

      Here we go

  • @plo1oo
    @plo1oo 7 месяцев назад

    Thanks for sharing your story
    I am also a food truck owner here in houston that has 95% of the same stuff i been going through. hearing your story made me less stress because i thought it was only me going through the food truck struggle. I hope one day you can get back at it,and and passion i believe you will. THANKS AGAIN

  • @jkbagwell
    @jkbagwell 8 месяцев назад +2

    Best of luck. Thanks for what you do.

  • @mgs_beckett2263
    @mgs_beckett2263 9 месяцев назад +12

    Trump 2024 making BBQ Great again!

    • @michaelmike5709
      @michaelmike5709 9 месяцев назад

      Yes and no, however, next president is going to be handed an extreme bad economic situation - whom they will be blamed for.
      Just simple can’t pass along the overhead prices onto customers, not because they won’t pay , ITS BECAUSE THEY Can’t PAY.
      40, to 50,000 for a car,
      $375,000-$475,000 for a house,
      all economist have stated a huge price reset is on its way, the story will continue to be of many many businesses closingsnationwide. The waters of major change is here
      , those who make it to shore by making the tuff decision to abandon ship, will survive
      but many will be swept away, by stubbornness and over passion while miss reading the waters by this new world wind of this economic downturn.

  • @CPIVCR
    @CPIVCR 9 месяцев назад +1

    credit for making an hard ethical decision. I know you will make work for you and your customers. I joined your channel and look forward tot he education.

  • @Gray_beard_veteran
    @Gray_beard_veteran 9 месяцев назад +3

    It was good seeing you yesterday, Brother. Glad you were open and to try those brisket loaded fries.
    However, I truly understand why you would close due to pricing. Hope and pray it all continues to work for you, Brother. God bless. Again, glad to see that you're back.

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you sir. Great seeing you all yesterday. 👍

  • @kennethdea9194
    @kennethdea9194 9 месяцев назад

    As an 8 yr smoker who has followed you to shape our business we have started I say thank you. I hate seeing you close as youve been so open and motovating as we have pushed forward to start. I know the costs are going up but customers dont mind to pay more for whats good and we know we cant do it for free. I am sending prayers your way. We still havent found a mac and cheese recipe to suite me but im still working on it. Take care of yourself and enjoy your family time!

  • @user-yn4xw5nx3h
    @user-yn4xw5nx3h 8 месяцев назад +1

    Hello Joe, I don’t know you but listening to the tidbit of your story, my heart goes out to you. At least you we😢able to realize your dream and open/run your food truck. I’m 60+ years old and have dreamed of doing the BBQ Shack here in Japan where I live. But sometimes we marry the wrong person only later to realize they aren’t really on our team. Another story for another day.
    Good luck brother on whatever your next move is. Be blessed.

  • @leskobrandon3497
    @leskobrandon3497 9 месяцев назад +2

    BBQ has gotten too expensive and I can do a pretty good job with my own smoker . Last time I went to a local BBQ joint here in Atlanta called Slopes , a jumbo sandwich plate that includes 2 sides was $16, where a couple of years ago the same plate was $9 . That's like a 75% increase , and so I buy Baby Back ribs on sale and freeze them I have 4 racks in the freezer now , along with a fresh ham and a pork butt I'm thawing out for this weekend . I use famous Daves rub , smoke a rack 4-5 hours @ 275 degrees , butts and hams go a hour and a half per pound .

  • @aaaa1945
    @aaaa1945 9 месяцев назад +1

    Triple net lease (NNN) is normally a commercial lease where the lessee pays rent and utilities as well as three other types of property expenses: insurance, maintenance, and taxes.

  • @bobbyroberts7574
    @bobbyroberts7574 6 месяцев назад +1

    Ive only been cooking a couple of years but i have thought bout doing food truck or something but yeah my plan was to keep the menu simple brisket ribs sausage potato salad beans and drinks and a desert

  • @xXGhoulieGunXx
    @xXGhoulieGunXx 9 месяцев назад

    Brisket Sausage Chicken, Beans Potato salad, Pickles Onions Bread thats it…no more, no less. Drove from Waco to El Paso once just to have your BBQ Joe, it was soo good. Thanks much and keep those videos coming big guy!

  • @GeoDab
    @GeoDab 9 месяцев назад +1

    Joe, El Pasoans are so fast to support you when things are going well and so fast to to bring you down with rumors and chisme. I’m so sad I barely found you, would have LOVED to try your food. Smoking some ribs today while working on my maps haha. Stay well much love from a fellow el pasoan!

  • @webstercat
    @webstercat 9 месяцев назад +1

    Better times may be ahead. Respect for your work ethic. You’re smart you will be fine whatever you take on. Just a bump in the road…

  • @davidj6385
    @davidj6385 9 месяцев назад

    Sorry you had to close. It's a tough business, and the fact that you made the Texas Monthly top-25 is a testament to your work. Thanks for your videos as I've learned so much from you and you've really helped me up my own BBQ game. Wishing you abundant blessings in your future endeavors and I'll keep following you on RUclips. Cheers, mate.

  • @jasonhollinger9513
    @jasonhollinger9513 9 месяцев назад

    I had very real discussions about starting a food truck business, but the prices of meats are what has held me back. I lead a nonprofit homeless ministry and I’m looking to have a food truck for that, but not as a business at this point. I have friends who have also closed their trucks for very similar reasons to yours. Keep up the great content.

  • @chrispope1805
    @chrispope1805 9 месяцев назад +1

    Keep your truck open, charge $20 for a burger , Hell if fast food chains like carls jr, McDonald's n most common places, they charge ridiculous amounts for their burgers n I n hopefully most people would rather pay 20 25 for a burger from you , because it will taste WAY BETTER n be made of quality food. Man this market is tough. Sorry you had to shut er down for now. Good luck n thanks for all you do. Well I hope you keep making sausage making videos n more. I've learned Alot n thankyou for your inspiration. You're AWESOME!!!

  • @shanewoods1980
    @shanewoods1980 9 месяцев назад +2

    I drove for US Foods, for 12 years and had many bbq restaurants/joints on my route in Columbus and Starkville Ms that was just 2 days of the week. So I saw firsthand how the price on pork shoulders, butts, brisket, tritip, whole hog go up and seldom ever go down.

  • @JavierRodriguez-sm4jw
    @JavierRodriguez-sm4jw 5 месяцев назад +1

    My friend thank you for your honesty it is the best policy.

  • @michaelslater2444
    @michaelslater2444 9 месяцев назад +1

    I wish you all the best. Hang in there, stay strong

  • @retroarcadefan
    @retroarcadefan 9 месяцев назад

    Good advice for ANY food truck. A small menu is the only way to go.

  • @oni-one574
    @oni-one574 9 месяцев назад +1

    Makes sense. I can't afford to eat out BBQ anymore. For the same price, I can buy basically... 70% of the brisket myself. I make it a point to eat at a local BBQ joint on every outdoor trip we take (like Hueco Tanks), but... Outside of that, I don't eat BBQ local because I can do it myself.

  • @meehanasap
    @meehanasap 9 месяцев назад

    First time viewer and completely understand. The food truck business is very complicated and inflation will kill many businesses and food trucks are extremely vulnerable. All the best and keep cooking!! In our food cart business we realized real quick one item was far more efficient than a broad menu.

  • @garycollier6950
    @garycollier6950 9 месяцев назад

    Jones barbeque in Marianna,Ark has been open since 1913. They were awarded a James Beard excellent food award a couple years ago. Their menu that have never changed.Light bread,pulled pork and coleslaw and Tahitian Treat soft drink.Located in Marianna, Arkansas.

  • @ptrd5945
    @ptrd5945 9 месяцев назад

    Huge respect for anyone in the food business. It’s a lot of hard work.

  • @jabba334
    @jabba334 9 месяцев назад

    Thanks for telling your story. It's not just Texas, I'm in Arkansas and noticed all the BBQ trucks vanished once inflation began to bite. We still have one or two BBQ places (I believe in paid off buildings) but their prices also continue to rise and their open hours are limited these days. Heck, I haven't even bought a steak from the grocery store in quite a long time due to the prices.
    All that being said, running a food truck may still be profitable with different types of food. We have plenty of Mexican, a couple Asian and even a Pizza food truck in the area still.

  • @sammartinez8084
    @sammartinez8084 9 месяцев назад +1

    Joe you have a great show 👌👌👌👌👍👍👍👍😁

  • @pibble3962
    @pibble3962 9 месяцев назад +1

    Joe, I predict that you will reimagine your business into something highly profitable that also fulfills your passion for making amazing food for people to enjoy.
    Thank you for also sharing your cooking knowledge.

  • @travisquintero8334
    @travisquintero8334 8 месяцев назад +1

    Hey Joe I believe I discovered something by accident that you might like.. I went to visit my mom ready to smoke a brisket for my family, as I was prepping the brisket my mom didn't have any mustard. Earlier I had made a sauce for a chili colorado, using chile pasilla, Chile ancho, and Chile guajillo. So I used it as a binder. The brisket came out more flavorful than with the mustard.. I really hope you try it

    • @SmokinJoesPitBBQ
      @SmokinJoesPitBBQ  8 месяцев назад

      Sounds delicious 👍

    • @rjlaxvespa1742
      @rjlaxvespa1742 7 месяцев назад

      You can also slow cook a brisket in yesterday's coffee it comes out amazing tender juicy, I helped plan out weddings where that was the main dish...makes amazing sandwiches.. helping young kids get married on a dime the parents were renting a house down in Santa Monica...huge flat yard in Sunset Park... amazing property probably should have kept it was just not cost-effective...LAXVESPA-LOSANGELES

  • @eldergoob6086
    @eldergoob6086 9 месяцев назад

    Seem like a good guy. You sound like you thought this out and made a choice you didn’t want to but logically felt best. You will do great. You’re a good role model. Keep it up.