Smokehouse Bar & Grill
InlandA laid-back BBQ bar in Kingston with live music on weekends and a menu that runs wider than the name suggests.
Smokehouse Bar and Grill has over a thousand reviews and a 4.4 rating, which means it handles volume and mostly delivers. The layout is relaxed, the noise level is easy to talk over, and the vibe leans more neighborhood bar than BBQ joint even if that's what the name says. People stop in from I-40 and end up returning when they're back through Kingston. People relocating to the area find it their first week and keep coming back.
The menu is broad for a place called Smokehouse: BBQ platters (pulled pork, brisket, pulled chicken, ribs), catfish, burgers, a Philly cheese steak, a French dip, nachos. The brisket is inconsistent; it can be tender and well-sauced, but it can also come out dry. The catfish gets consistent praise, as do the chicken tenders, which are light and not greasy. The smokehouse burger with waffle sweet potato fries has its own following. Bone-in wings are better than boneless. The sides are generally solid: baked sweet potato, fried okra, mac and cheese. The whiskey selection draws specific praise, and there is a reasonable draft beer list.
Weekend nights bring live music, which draws a crowd beyond the dinner rush. The bar is the social anchor; sitting there means faster service and usually a friendly bartender. Portions are ample for the price. Catering is available through the website for events.
Tips
- The catfish dinner with hush puppies is one of the more reliable plates on the menu.
- Bone-in wings are the move if wings are on the agenda; boneless runs smaller.
- The bar seats are a good option solo or as a pair; service tends to be faster there.
- Check the weekend music schedule if that's part of the draw; not every night has a full act.
- If brisket is the plan, ask the bar staff how it's running before committing.
What people love
- Catfish and the chicken tenders with light, non-greasy breading.
- The whiskey selection and draft beer list.
- The relaxed, easy-to-talk-in atmosphere.
- Smokehouse Burger with waffle sweet potato fries.
- Live music on weekend nights.
What to know
- The brisket can run dry or bland; ask how it's running before ordering.
- Closed Sundays.
- Portions are generous; the shrimp platter has been called out as an exception.
- Service can slow during peak weekend dinner hours.
Best time
Weekday evenings are quiet and service moves well. Weekend nights bring live music and a fuller house; plan for a slower kitchen if arriving at prime time.
First visit
Smokehouse is on West Race Street in Kingston, about a mile from the Watts Bar area. The bar area is the social center; the dining room is quieter. Both work.
How to get in
Walk-in. No reservations listed. Waits are uncommon on weekdays; weekend evenings can fill the dining room.
Location
Frequently asked
When is Smokehouse Bar & Grill open?
Closed Sundays year-round. Weekend music schedule varies by season; check ahead.
How do I get to Smokehouse Bar & Grill?
Smokehouse is on West Race Street in Kingston, about a mile from the Watts Bar area. The bar area is the social center; the dining room is quieter. Both work.
Does Smokehouse Bar & Grill take reservations?
Walk-in. No reservations listed. Waits are uncommon on weekdays; weekend evenings can fill the dining room.
What should I know before visiting Smokehouse Bar & Grill?
The brisket can run dry or bland; ask how it's running before ordering.
Last updated: April 30, 2026