BBQ Joint Smokin' Warehouse Plans to Add a Truck

Luis Chong

​Being trapped behind a window in a Bayview warehouse apparently is too confining for Smokin' Warehouse owner Bill Lee. We visited last week and discovered that he has ordered a smokin' truck. That is, a truck for selling barbecue, not one he found by the side of the road with the hood up.

Luis Chong

Smokin' Warehouse's current location. The name is accurate.

​While we waited for our BBQ combo ($13.95, includes three meats, two sides, and cornbread), Lee told us that his barbecue mobile truck is going through permits and inspections. This week he's deciding on a color scheme and design ideas. Naturally, flames and bricks are running through his mind.

Lee may actually smoke the barbecue at the home location and keep it warm on the truck. Actual smoking in a truck is a challenge; the Rib Whip truck has a smoker on board, but its quality has been inconsistent.

Lee said if everything goes well, expect to see the truck rolling in about two months. He plans to sell his excellent brisket sandwich from at least four locations: SF State, City College, and two downtown spots.

Since we last visited, Lee has revised the shop's hours (without updating his website). It's now open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. No more chili dogs for breakfast, unless you sleep late.