Taino Smokehouse, located in Middletown, is a barbecue restaurant owned by Chris Szewczyk and his wife Jenny. The couple's love for barbecue was sparked during a cross-country road trip in 2010, where they discovered the rich flavors and techniques of American barbecue. Inspired by their journey, they decided to open Taino Smokehouse nearly two years ago, offering a taste of authentic barbecue to the community.
A Tribute to Indigenous Peoples and Columbus Day
Taino Smokehouse pays homage to the indigenous Taino tribe, who were the first people that Christopher Columbus encountered in 149The Taino tribe had a tradition of smoking their foods, including fish, turtles, and birds. The word barbecue originated from the Taino word barbacoa, which means cooking meat over an open fire. Sadly, Columbus's arrival marked the beginning of the end for the Taino tribe, as he wiped out a significant portion of their population. The Szewczyks named their restaurant after the tribe, aiming to honor their culinary legacy.
The Indigenous Peoples' Day BBQ Cook-off
Every year, Taino Smokehouse hosts the Indigenous Peoples' Day BBQ Cook-off State Championship, coinciding with Columbus Day. This event brings together barbecue enthusiasts from all over the county to celebrate the rich history of barbecue and pay tribute to the indigenous people who first practiced this cooking technique. The cook-off is certified by the Kansas City Barbeque Society, one of the most prestigious barbecue organizations in the world.
This year, the state championship event saw about 60 people representing 15 teams competing in three categories: wings, brisket, and ribs. The competition offered over $5,000 in prize money, attracting some of the top-ranked teams from across the country. Despite the competition from other events, such as the Hartford Marathon and the Southington Apple Harvest Festival, the championship drew a crowd of around 500 people.
The Taino Smokehouse Experience
At Taino Smokehouse, guests can indulge in a variety of slow-smoked meats, traditional side dishes, and a unique wings menu featuring smoked wings. The restaurant uses wood from white oak, hickory trees, and fruitwoods from Lyman Orchards to infuse their meats with a distinct smoky flavor. The careful selection of wood and the use of wood-fired grills and smokers ensure that each dish at Taino Smokehouse is packed with authentic barbecue taste.
With the success of their first location, Chris Szewczyk is actively scouting for a second location to expand the Taino Smokehouse brand. The restaurant has become a popular destination for barbecue lovers, drawing in crowds of up to 1,000 people at past events.
Visit Taino Smokehouse Today
For those craving a taste of authentic barbecue, Taino Smokehouse is a must-visit. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or simply looking to explore new flavors, Taino Smokehouse offers a memorable dining experience. To learn more about their menu and upcoming events, visit their website at www.tainosmokehouse.com . You can also call 860-358-9828 or follow them on Twitter @TainoSmokehouse or Facebook at TainoSmokehouse.
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