Summer Smokes: Our New Seasonal Menu Brings Authentic BBQ Styles to the PNW

We understand that when the sun finally breaks through the Pacific Northwest clouds, your mind immediately goes to one thing: a backyard filled with the aroma of slow-cooked, smoke-kissed goodness. There is just something about summer that calls for the deep, soulful flavors of authentic barbecue. We’ve been working hard behind the scenes, and we are so happy to finally announce that our summer menu is dropping!

At Anita & Joe’s, we don’t just cook food; we share stories. This season, those stories are being told through the return of our signature smoked meats and vegetables. We know that planning a summer event can feel a bit overwhelming. You worry about whether the food will be enough, if the flavors will hit the right notes, or if there are hidden costs lurking in the fine print. We want to put those worries to rest right now. We love to keep things transparent and simple so you can actually enjoy your party. Our passion is bringing the authentic traditions of the South right here to our neighbors in Washington, and we can't wait for you to taste what we’ve been dreaming up.

The Heart of the Pit: Why We Smoke

Smoking meat isn't a shortcut; it’s a commitment. We love the "low and slow" philosophy because it mirrors how we like to do business: with patience, care, and a whole lot of heart. We understand that you want more than just a meal; you want an experience that lingers long after the last plate is cleared. That’s why we’ve curated a summer menu that celebrates the diverse landscape of American barbecue.

While we are based in the PNW, our culinary souls often wander back to the South. We are happy to bring those traditional techniques to your table, whether you are hosting a small family gathering or a large corporate event. We work with you to ensure every bite is perfect, meeting you where you are at in your planning process to make sure the menu fits your vision perfectly.

A Love Letter to Eastern Carolina

If you’ve ever talked BBQ with us, you know where our true loyalty lies. We absolutely love Eastern Carolina style barbecue. For those who might not be familiar with the "why" behind this choice, it’s all about the vinegar. Unlike the thick, syrupy sauces you find in the grocery store, Eastern Carolina style uses a thin, vinegar-based sauce spiked with red pepper flakes.

It’s tangy, it’s bright, and it cuts through the richness of the smoked pork like nothing else. We love to use this style because it respects the meat. We aren't trying to hide the flavor of the smoke; we’re trying to highlight it. We understand that some people are used to the sweeter stuff, but once you try our Carolina-style pulled pork, you’ll see why we’re so passionate about it. It’s a tradition we’re proud to uphold, and we think it’s the perfect match for a breezy PNW summer afternoon.

Exploring the BBQ Map: Texas, Tennessee, and Beyond

While Carolina is our first love, we aren't exclusive! We know that variety is the spice of life, and we love to play with different regional styles to give you a true "tour of the South."

Texas-Style Brisket In Texas, the beef is king. We treat our brisket with the utmost respect, using a simple but heavy rub of salt and pepper to create that iconic "bark." We smoke it for hours until it’s tender enough to pull apart with a fork but still holds its shape. It’s bold, it’s smoky, and it’s a crowd-favorite for a reason.

Tennessee Traditions When we look toward Memphis and Tennessee, we’re talking about those incredible dry rubs. We love to lace our ribs with a complex blend of spices that creates a savory crust. It’s a different kind of intensity that focuses on the harmony of the spices and the smoke.

A Hawaiian Twist We even like to take a little trip to the islands! We do a Hawaii-style smoking technique that brings a tropical flair to the menu. Think Kalua-style pork that is incredibly moist and salty, often smoked with elements that mimic the traditional underground oven (imu) style. It’s a fantastic option if you want something a little different for your summer bash.

Not Just for Meat Lovers: Smoked Vegetables

We understand that not everyone at your table might be looking for a rack of ribs. We believe that everyone deserves to experience the magic of the smoker, which is why our summer menu features an incredible array of smoked vegetables.

Smoking vegetables brings out a natural sweetness and depth that you just can’t get from roasting or grilling alone. We love to smoke seasonal corn, which we then slather in herb-infused butters, or even heirloom tomatoes that become the base for a smoky summer salsa. We’re also bringing back our famous smoked cabbage: trust us, once you’ve had it, you’ll never look at cabbage the same way again!

If you're looking for the perfect side to complement these smoky flavors, our catering menu is packed with options that bridge the gap between Southern comfort and PNW freshness.

Transparency and Partnership: Our Promise to You

We know that one of the biggest pain points in hiring a caterer is the "guesswork." You might worry about hidden fees, or wonder if the quality will match the price. We want to be your guide and partner through this entire process. We don't believe in "one size fits all" packages that don't actually fit your needs.

We are happy to provide clear, upfront information because we want you to feel confident in your choice. You can check out our catering starting prices and our catering FAQ to see exactly how we work. Our goal is to reduce your planning stress so you can focus on making memories with your guests. Whether you need a full personal chef experience or a simple drop-off catering service, we are here to support you.

Making it a Full Experience

A great BBQ isn't just about the main course. It's about the entire spread. From the first bite of a crispy appetizer to the final spoonful of dessert, we want every part of your meal to feel special. We love to start things off with something classic, like our fried green tomatoes, which offer that perfect crunch to wake up the palate.

And you can't have a summer smoke-out without a sweet finish! We take our desserts just as seriously as our brisket. Our team is constantly dreaming up ways to end the night on a high note, using seasonal ingredients to create treats that feel light, airy, and totally satisfying.

Let’s Plan the Event of Your Dreams!

The smoker is warmed up, the wood is stacked, and the recipes are ready. All that’s missing is you! We are so excited to bring these authentic Southern flavors to the Pacific Northwest this summer. We love what we do, and we think you’ll taste that passion in every single bite.

Don't let another summer pass by with the same old boring burgers and dogs. Let’s work together to create a culinary experience that your guests will be talking about for years to come. Whether you want to browse our sample catering menu for inspiration or you're ready to book online right now, we are ready to help.

We meet you where you are at, whether you’re just starting to brainstorm or you have a fully formed vision. Let’s make this summer the tastiest one yet. Reach out to us today, and let’s get the smoke rolling! We can't wait to serve you!