North Texas Smoke BBQ Opens New Restaurant North of Fort Worth
A beloved Texas food trailer is expanding, and North Texas Smoke BBQ is officially opening a new restaurant north of Fort Worth. This popular spot marks a significant step for the acclaimed barbecue joint, exciting many fans and signaling growth for trending Texas food. The new North Texas Smoke BBQ establishment promises more space and comfort, offering a unique dining experience for all who visit the new Texas BBQ restaurant.
The Journey from Trailer to Table: North Texas Smoke BBQ’s Rise
Pitmaster Derek Degenhardt is the driving force behind North Texas Smoke BBQ. He started his venture in January 2022 as a humble roadside trailer, initially hidden behind a fireworks stand and sharing space with a motorcycle dealership. Degenhardt, a former truck driver who grew up in Kansas, moved to Texas nearly 20 years ago and dedicated himself to perfecting his barbecue craft. His commitment paid off handsomely, as the trailer quickly became well-known locally, serving many school and community groups and building a loyal customer base for North Texas Smoke BBQ. This new Texas BBQ restaurant is the culmination of his hard work and the ongoing success of North Texas Smoke BBQ.
A Coveted Texas Monthly Ranking for North Texas Smoke BBQ
In 2023, Texas Monthly recognized North Texas Smoke BBQ, landing it on the list of 25 best new barbecue joints. This critical acclaim continued in 2025 when Texas Monthly named it one of the state’s Top 50 BBQ spots – a huge honor in Texas, often called the Super Bowl of smoked meat. This success significantly boosted business, with Degenhardt reporting a 20% increase in customers who now travel further to find his food. Even international travelers seek out the barbecue lauded by the magazine. This rising popularity necessitated the expansion, a testament to the quality of North Texas Smoke BBQ. The new Texas BBQ restaurant, North Texas Smoke BBQ, is eagerly anticipated.
The Expansion: A New Fort Worth BBQ Destination with North Texas Smoke BBQ
The new restaurant, set to open in mid-January at 2601 U.S. 287 North, just outside Decatur, boasts a unique structure built from stacked shipping containers. Degenhardt envisioned a place that was both unique and memorable for North Texas Smoke BBQ. The new space includes a 50-seat dining room, offering much more seating than the trailer and a more comfortable environment, though existing picnic tables will remain. There will be ample space for a waiting line. The location is conveniently situated about 15 minutes from Fort Worth’s north edge, providing easier access for diners and those coming from DFW Airport. This move is a major step forward for the restaurant and a significant moment for Fort Worth BBQ, solidifying North Texas Smoke BBQ’s presence. This food container restaurant is sure to be a hit.
What’s Cooking Next for North Texas Smoke BBQ?
North Texas Smoke BBQ will continue its lunch service Wednesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. until sold out. However, Degenhardt plans significant menu additions, intending to add a Sunday brunch he describes as “ridiculously good.” This will offer customers a new reason to visit, adding another dimension to their food services. Degenhardt also has future ambitions, hoping to crack the Top 10 on Texas Monthly’s list, driven by continuous improvement. The current trailer will remain open until the new North Texas Smoke BBQ restaurant is ready, ensuring a smooth transition. This new venture represents a significant BBQ trailer expansion for North Texas Smoke BBQ.
A New Chapter for Texas Barbecue with North Texas Smoke BBQ
North Texas Smoke BBQ’s growth is remarkable, showcasing the power of dedication and quality food. The shift from a trailer to a dedicated restaurant is a major milestone, highlighting Degenhardt’s vision and the enduring appeal of Texas barbecue. The unique shipping container design adds character, and the planned Sunday brunch offers exciting new food options. This expansion solidifies North Texas Smoke BBQ’s place in the trending food landscape and is set to become a must-visit destination for barbecue enthusiasts. This is a significant moment for Texas food news and the North Texas Smoke BBQ restaurant experience, marking it as one of the best Texas barbecue destinations.
