Charitable business Smoked Love BBQ expanded its barbecue operation to a food truck a year and a half ago, providing a space for Bastrop residents to be kind to their neighbors while enjoying a Texas staple.

How we got here

Founder Thomas Witte said when he moved to Bastrop from Austin, he brainstormed ways to give back. In 2021, Witte began his experimental journey with barbecue and was inspired to use his culinary skills to connect with the community after witnessing neighborhood groups deliver food to folks affected by Winter Storm Uri.

The passion for the business was born after Witte cooked a meal for volunteers helping create the disc golf course at Bob Bryant Park.

“It just felt really good watching the community eating my tacos and really enjoying it,” Witte said. “That was the first big one that I was like, ‘OK, we’re going to start making this happen.’”


What’s special about it?

Like many Texans, Witte said he was exposed to grilling at a young age by watching his father use his home-built smoker in their backyard. What started as a love for food in childhood became the foundation for a locally-loved, charitable eatery.

Proceeds from the business go toward local organizations such as Children’s Advocacy Center. In addition to the donations made on a routine schedule, the business pays it forward in other ways.

With the upcoming holiday in mind, Witte said the business will supply Thanksgiving meals to Cherokee Recovery Village and other organizations. Community members can look forward to getting their own Thanksgiving meals at the food truck, Witte said, as they will be selling smoked whole turkeys and smoked turkey breast.


What they offer

The food truck’s permanent menu ranges from classic barbecue to specialty dishes, such as seafood, vegetarian plates and mac and cheese topped with various barbecue meats. The truck also supplies pulled pork pup treats for free to any customers that bring their furry friends with them.

Smoke Love BBQ offers discounts to certain groups including 15% off for first responders and military, and 10% for Bastrop Independent School District teachers.

In their own words


“It’s unbelievable how amazing the people of Bastrop are,” Witte said. “Outside the food, I think [we’re] just trying to bring the community together more.”