If you're a food lover searching for the perfect spot to indulge in mouthwatering BBQ dishes, look no further than Smokehouse Bar-B-Q in Matlock. Situated on Dale Road, this popular restaurant is known for its delectable menu, skilled pit barbecue operators, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, Smokehouse Bar-B-Q is a must-visit destination for an unforgettable dining experience.
Owners' Frustrations
Owned by Kerrie and Michael Thompson, Smokehouse Bar-B-Q is part of a trio of food and drink venues in Matlock town centre. Alongside Spuddy's, a jacket potato shop, and The Remarkable Hare, a pub, Smokehouse Bar-B-Q has recently faced significant challenges due to roadworks in the area. The Thompsons claim that the roadworks have caused them to lose thousands of pounds in revenue, with their businesses being directly affected by the barriers and restricted access.
On June 7, the entrance to Smokehouse Bar-B-Q was barricaded with roadworks fencing, leaving the owners, customers, and staff feeling trapped. The restaurant had to close for the day, resulting in a loss of income and wasted produce. The frustration of the Thompsons was amplified by the lack of notice and consultation from Derbyshire County Council, the authority responsible for the roadworks.
Impact on Smokehouse Bar-B-Q
The roadworks, which are being carried out for a service connection installation by internet provider Gigaclear, are scheduled to last from June 6-1As a result, Smokehouse Bar-B-Q will be closed on its busiest days, Thursday through Sunday, leading to a significant loss of revenue. The closure also means wasted produce, as the restaurant typically spends over £4,000 on ingredients each week. Additionally, the closure has resulted in staff losing wages, with several employees being sent home mid-shift.
The impact of the roadworks extends beyond Smokehouse Bar-B-Q. The Remarkable Hare, another business owned by the Thompsons, will also face financial losses and disrupted operations due to the blocked entrance. The closures and canceled shifts have a direct impact on the livelihoods of the staff employed by these businesses.
Responsibility and Communication
The frustrations expressed by the owners of Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and other affected businesses highlight the importance of effective communication and consultation. According to a spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council, it is the responsibility of the contractor, in this case, Gigaclear, to inform and communicate with affected businesses and residents. However, the lack of notice and communication has left the Thompsons feeling unsupported and unheard.
Gigaclear has acknowledged the access issue faced by Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and has taken measures to resolve the situation promptly. The company claims to have delivered letters to businesses prior to the start of the works and is working on improving communication and coordination for the remaining works. However, the Thompsons and other business owners argue that more proactive communication and consultation should have taken place to minimize disruption and financial losses.
A Culinary Haven for Foodies
Despite the recent challenges faced by Smokehouse Bar-B-Q, the restaurant remains a beloved culinary destination in Matlock. Since its opening in March 2022, it has gained a reputation for serving delicious BBQ food. Skilled pit barbecue operators prepare loaded meaty platters, hot dogs, burgers, loaded fries, pancakes, and waffles, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
For those craving a different culinary experience, Spuddy's, located next to Smokehouse Bar-B-Q, specializes in all things potatoes. Baked potatoes with various toppings, including barbecued meat from Smokehouse Bar-B-Q, are the main attraction at Spuddy's. Meanwhile, The Remarkable Hare pub offers hearty homemade food, including pub classics, burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and tapas. The venue also boasts a selection of cask and keg beers from local breweries and a tempting cocktail menu.
Smokehouse Bar-B-Q is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary haven for BBQ enthusiasts and food lovers in Matlock. Despite the recent challenges caused by the roadworks, the Thompsons and their dedicated team continue to provide exceptional dining experiences and mouthwatering dishes. The support of the local community and visitors is vital in helping these businesses recover and thrive. So, the next time you find yourself in Matlock, make sure to pay a visit to Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and indulge in their tantalizing BBQ creations.
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