Help Reopen Smokeshak BBQ – Anderson’s Only Black-Owned Smokehouse!

Our Story

Hey y’all, I’m Stormy—one of the co-founders of Smokeshak, the only Black-owned BBQ spot Anderson, SC ever had. Started with my Father Chef Melvin Mattison Back in 2019, we poured our hearts (and plenty of hickory wood) into serving up smoked ribs, pulled pork, and brisket to the community. Folks would line up from all over town just to taste that southern soul on a plate. ❤️

Unfortunately, our building got sold out from under us to Nissan Grainger, and despite our best efforts, we haven’t been able to reopen under the Smokeshak name. We miss our customers. We miss that delicious smoke ring. And most of all, we miss being a Black-owned beacon of good eats and community pride in Anderson.

Why We Need Your Help

We’ve found a new property that’s perfect—right in the heart of our old neighborhood. But before we can fire up the smoker again, we have to bring that building up to code:

Add a proper bathroom

Do light construction & electrical work

Purchase permits & basic equipment

To avoid high-interest loans and keep Smokeshak debt-free from Day One, we’re asking for $15,000 in startup capital. Every dollar goes toward construction, labor, permits, and getting the kitchen back to health-code standards.

How Your Donation Helps

$5,000 → Adds a customer-access bathroom

$5,000 → Covers light construction and electrical updates

$3,000 → Gets us licensed and health-approved

$2,000 → Purchases essential kitchen gear

What You’ll Get

Your name on our in-store “Founders Wall”

A chance at exclusive “First Bite” BBQ boxes

VIP invite to our soft opening

Lifetime 10% discount for our top supporters

Why This Matters

Smokeshak wasn’t just about food—it was about family, community, and culture. You’re not just backing a business—you’re reviving a hometown gem that brings people together and creates opportunity.

From My Heart to Yours—Thank You

Even if you can’t donate, please share this with folks who believe in Black business, good food, and giving something real back to the community. Your support means the world.

Let’s bring Smokeshak back stronger than ever!

— Stormy & The Smokeshak Family

[ Donate Today & Be Part of Anderson’s BBQ Comeback ]