Smoke on the Water is a BBQ restaurant serving breakfast and lunch in downtown Charlevoix. Located on Park Avenue, they slow smoke their meats on-site. From the Challah bread used in the Drunken French Toast down to the ketchup on the hand-shredded hash browns - everything is scratch-made using one-of-a-kind recipes and the finest ingredients. Visit Smoke on the Water for a memorable meal today!
Owner of Smoke on the Water Julie Mann answered some questions about this cozy little spot that adds so much charm to downtown Charlevoix.
What are three things that make your business unique?
We make almost everything from scratch.
We hand shred our hashbrowns.
We smoke our own meats.
What service does your business provide that is different than most others?
In addition to breakfast and lunch, we offer frozen dinners at an affordable price and we bake a variety of items in-house that are available for purchase. We also rent out our restaurant for rehearsal dinners and private parties, and we offer fondue dinners for groups as well.
What is your experience and background?
Life! I am a jack (or Jane) of all trades. Secretary, server, property manager, and events coordinator to name a few.
What is something about your business that customers do not expect?
No matter what they order on the menu, it is delicious.
How do you ensure your employees feel valued?
I treat my employees with dignity and respect. We have also had many outings… trips to Mackinac Island, Sky Walk, bowling, Christmas party with small gifts, kayaking, and bbq.
What is one of your favorite customer testimonials your business has received?
A judge from the Kansas City BBQ Competition (a highly regarded competition) told me that my smoked pulled pork was spot on, exactly what they look for in competitions. The best thing about it, he has a pulled pork omelet.
Does your company have a personality and an attitude, and if so, how would you describe it? Welcoming, inclusive, cozy, homey, hard-working, innovative, happy, smart, and sometimes sassy.
Does your business participate in any partnerships with other local companies (cross-promotion, sourcing local ingredients, etc.)?
We buy Currey Farms Maple Syrup. We used Lottie’s bagels when they were selling them to restaurants. We have sourced local fruits and vegetables from different farms.
Why did you choose to own a business in downtown Charlevoix?
Our dream was to retire in Charlevoix, my husband was born and raised here. I had the opportunity to work from home for Ameriprise Financial and we took that opportunity to move here. Owning a restaurant was a dream of mine later in life and this little spot became available. We put in an offer and it was accepted and here we are 9 years into it and going strong!
How has Charlevoix DDA been valuable to your business?
Charlevoix DDA helped me obtain a $25,000 grant to update my kitchen and make improvements that helped with efficiencies and increased sales.
Stay Connected:
Website URL: www.sow-bbq.com
Facebook page: SOW-Smoke On The Water
Instagram: smokeonthewater103
Loyalty program? We are part of 4TheLocal
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