Or how one man’s hobby creates a barbecue in Port O’Connor!

Have you seen the signs on the highway at 14th Street? They announce to all travelers that there is a new eatery in this area that will please your taste buds! As my attention had been captured following a Saturday at the Library, and my nose was inhaling such great scents, I stopped!

And found a large black metal pit barbecue on a stand adjoining a bright yellow mobile kitchen. And an astonishing cook with his wife sitting under a large awning at a table with several friends. Meeting Karen and Leroy Smith was an excellent experience. Leroy is THE guy behind the pit and Karen, his wife of many years and chief supporter, both are local residents. It seems Leroy has been cooking foods over a grill for many years, and his skills have traveled throughout this area and others. Many friends have pleaded with him to cater family events for some time, and this has led Leroy into the business world.

Although open only on Saturdays, Leroy’s has definitely become the standard meal in many homes in Port O’Connor. As he is currently employed by Dow, he will be open only every 2nd or 3rd Saturdays, but his grilling is not to be missed. Speaking with several residents concerning the food, the raves are not to be taken lightly. As stated: the ribs just fall off the bone; the brisket is tender and tasty; the chopped beef makes an excellent sandwich, and the potato salad is a delight!

Leroy is definitely a people person, who seems to warm immediately to any one. Karen, his wife, may be a little more reserved, but she made me feel very welcome as I asked questions and took pictures.

Leroy’s Pit BBQ will be closed for several weeks beginning the weekend of August 11th and 18th, but he should be back in operation on the 25th with tantalizing scents covering the highway and luring you to his place.

Although most chefs are male, the prize for organizing a kitchen goes to the female as she is the one who uses it on a daily basis for a minimum of three meals. And this was no different with Leroy and Karen, as she is accustomed to being in the kitchen constantly and is a completely organized person. So Leroy then found the necessary items now being available on instant access, which now makes the Cook very happy and less stressed.

As you spot the large bbq pit, you also see the bright yellow mobile kitchen adjoining it, decorated with the signs denoting the gastronomic pleasures available. There is a large table covered with an awning adjoining the kitchen that can provide shade from the hot summer afternoons as you get your food. And for your safety, inspectors from the Health Department have made a visit and declare Leroy’s as A+ for food service.

Leroy strikes you as a man who can’t sit still, whether he is moving or not — he grabs your attention. A very warm personality whose aim is to please YOU and that he does. And Karen is a delight to speak with.

Leroy already has plans for our locals during the winter. Will be interesting to see his menu!

I have found this to be a total delight being able to speak with many of our businesses here in Port O’Connor. So if any business would like to be interviewed, please contact Joyce Rhyne, our editor, or me at the following address or phone number: kubeckasue@yahoo.com; 361 798-0560.

Leroy

Karen

Mixed Plate