A strong work ethic and a focused determination are a part of Gabe’s character. Having always had a strong desire to open his own business, in the spring of 2016, he decided to follow his dream and give it his best shot. With the love and support of a close-knit family and a few close friends, The Smoke ‘N Pig BBQ was born.

The business started with one Weber smoker, a couple of tables, some white tents and a few food warmers. After two days, though, it was very apparent that this was the beginning of something he could only have imagined. He immediately invested in two more smokers to handle the volume of customers, and six weeks later, he purchased his first 24-foot food trailer. After that, as they say, he was off and running. By June of 2017, he invested in another 50-foot food trailer to handle the expanded festival, special events and catering schedule.

​In the summer of 2016, taking his trailer on the road to the Brighton, Michigan, Smokin Jazz and BBQ Blues Festival, he took first place for best ribs. This was Gabe’s first rib competition and he hit the ball out of the park. Since then he has won numerous awards for best ribs and best beef brisket. For the last four years, Gabe has been perfecting his own unique brand of secret BBQ rub, which sets his smoked meats apart from any other central Michigan smokehouse restaurants.

Today you can find Gabe and The Smoke ‘N Pig BBQ team at their new location, 908 Elmwood Road,(just east of the Lansing Mall across from Best Buy). Open Monday- Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.