“[Our menu] is unique to the San Antonio and New Braunfels areas,” Ramos said. “We provide what’s more of a local Tex-Mex barbecue fusion in the San Antonio and New Braunfels area.”
Ramos retired from the U.S. Army after 22 years of serving and decided to open up the food kitchen in New Braunfels, because he has fond memories of visiting the area while growing up. His family would frequently gather and barbecue together, fostering his passion for cooking. Ramos still uses some of the recipes he has perfected since childhood, including when he smokes brisket and pork for items on the menu.
“My family has always been involved in cooking and barbecuing,” Ramos said. “I came from a small town and grew up in a small town outside of San Antonio, and that’s all we did. We would get together to barbecue, and I grew up loving to do that with family.”
Smokin’ Joe's Tex-Mex Kitchen also offers catering services, and the family business is set to expand in the near future. Ramos said his future aspirations are to open up a full restaurant that offers seating so his customers can enjoy their dining experience while eating their food.
Some of Smokin’ Joe's Tex-Mex Kitchen's most popular items include their nachos, smash burger, and birria brisket and pork tacos. The business gives a 15% discount to first responders, military veterans, and New Braunfels ISD teachers and staff to give back to the community.
“[Veterans] and first responders are people that give back to the community, and I felt like it’s important to show them that we appreciate them for what they do. ... Teachers are part of that,” Ramos said. “I feel that they are on the front line every day teaching our children that are going to be future leaders.”
Smokin’ Joe's Tex-Mex Kitchen 855 W. Klein Road, New Braunfels 830-632-5288 • www.facebook.com/smokinjoestexmexkitchen
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m., closed Sun.
