Smoke'n Ash BBQ - Arlington

Down Matlock Rd, south of I20, is a small fusion restaurant that combines traditional Texas BBQ with Ethiopian foods. It’s easy to miss, but if you don’t stop in, you’re the one missing out!

If you haven’t had Ethiopian food before, it features many stewed meat and vegetables served atop injera – a spongy, gluten-free, sourdough flat bread that is used to pinch portions of the food with the bread between one’s fingers and thumb. No utensils are traditionally used, and it is most often served family-style.

Smoke’n Ash keeps with this traditional, but also adds the twist of Texas BBQ staples served in “Ethiopian-style”. If your group doesn’t mind sharing – remember, you’re all eating with your hands – you can experience a variety of dishes in one visit. I would say the spice palate is quite similar to that of Indian food, although you won’t find curry sauces.

I had the Rib Tip Tibs, which are familiar to BBQ, with a very unique and tasty seasoning. The side that I chose, honesty, stole the show. Gomen are Ethiopian Collard Greens, and I may never want to eat collard greens any other way again! I like collard greens, but these have a savory, beefy quality that is absolutely delicious! There are also big, tender chunks of the beef in the greens that just take it over the top. I would truly make an entire meal out of a bowl of those collard greens.

For the less adventurous, they also offer all the standard Texas BBQ menu items, and you can order sandwiches, 2 and 3 meat plates, or top a baked potato. I sampled the Pulled Pork, and it was delicious. I’d tell you more about that BBQ, but the Ethiopian and fusion dishes are so good, that it’s not likely I’ll order anything else.

Smoke’n Ash is definitely worth a visit. The owners seem like great people and the food is something you just won’t find anywhere else!

Rib Tip "Tibs" with Gomen

Assorted Meat and Vegetables served with Injera and Texas Toast

Big Ash Baked Potato with Pulled Pork

Interior of Restaurant