SMOKE (Barbeque* Taqueria): Homestead’s Diamond in the Rough

            I’m sure many of you have ventured over to the Waterfront, to go shopping or catch the latest flick at Lowes Theatre, but how many of you non-Homesteaders have literally crossed the train tracks and ventured over to Smoke on 8^th Avenue?  It’s true that Homestead has seen better days, but you owe it to your foodie self to take the trip. 

            When entering Smoke, the namesake of this taqueria is fully realized and you’ll, at no fault of your own, begin salivating like one of Pavlov’s dogs as a result of the all-consuming aroma of barbequed meats.  That’s right folks, you’re not going to find any bland, dry meats in this joint.  On the contrary, all meat options (chicken, ribs, pork, and brisket) are tender and seasoned to perfection.  For the non-meat eaters (you are enigmas to me), there is also a spicy veggie option.  You also have the offerings of two breakfast tacos which can be made with or without meat and are served all day.

The quality doesn’t stop at the filling, like some other taquerias in the area though.  All tortillas are made in-house on the daily.  Never have I tasted a tortilla so delicate, yet sturdy enough to serve its purpose: to get that scrumptious filling to my pie hole without making a sloppy mess.  The taco list is limited, but each offering has been thoughtfully envisioned to create a stars-aligned experience in your mouth.  A favorite menu item of mine is the chicken apple taco, which is topped with house-made bacon, cheddar, and jalapeno mayo (not spicy, just flavorful).  My second choice is often the pork taco, topped with apricot habanero sauce and caramelized onions (this one does pack some heat).  There is also a daily specialty taco.  

Chicken Apple 

Pork

Smoke also offers salads and sides to accompany your eats.  The potato salad is creamy and flavored with grilled leeks. A side of smoky beans or a dish of slaw is always a good choice too.  In terms of beverages, agua fresca, lemonade, and iced tea are sure to quench your thirst.  Smoke is BYOB ($2.50/person) so you can feel free to bring your favorite brew or some tequila to make a delicious mixer. 

Brisket Salad with Gorgonzola Dressing

So I know I’ve got you hooked on the idea of going to Smoke already.  You’re saying to yourself, “What could possibly make this taqueria any more enticing?” How about smoked wings?!  It was so hard for me not to talk about wing night first, but I had to give the tacos their limelight (it is a taco shop after all).  But let me say this now, Smoke has the best wings in all of Pittsburgh.  These smoky, crispy, saucy delicacies have officially made Thursday the best day of the week (Fridays?  Who cares?).  And my word, the house-made Gorgonzola dressing is drinkable (minus the big hunks of cheese).  

Wings

The moral of the story is that Smoke is outrageously satisfying.  And while Nelda and Jeff (owners) may not have the notoriety of being the next “Kevin Sousa” just yet, they most certainly deserve major props for bringing fresh, delicious food to the once vibrant Homestead business district.  Do yourself a favor and treat your mouth by visiting Smoke some day soon-give Homestead a chance.

I give Smoke: 5/5 forks 

Will I return?  Absolutely

SMOKE

225 E 8th Ave
Homestead, PA 15120

(412) 205-3039 

Kaya: Strip District Delight

         Most Pittsburghers are no strangers to the treasures to be had in the Strip District, a literal strip of local eats and merchandise.  Some folks, however, may be missing out on Kaya (part of the Big Burrito group) when they patronage touristy spots (think Primanti’s). 

        When you walk into Kaya, you leave your stresses of the day at the door and soak in the island vibe.  The décor is fun and festive to say the least.  The bar area is inviting, offering a stretch of drum-like stools to rest upon.  What’s more inviting is Kaya’s amazing happy hour.  Monday through Friday you can imbibe on half-off cocktails (single serve) and draft beer.  My favorite cocktail offering is the Grapefruit-Basil Margarita.  If you’re a lightweight like me, make sure you order some grub to boot.  You’ll be feelin’ o-so-fine in no time.  

         
         Speaking of grub, the Kaya Burger ($12) is hands down, one of the best beef patty creations in town.  A juicy, succulent burger is adorned with avocado, bacon, Chihuahua cheese, and of course… a locally farmed sunny-side up egg.  The rich yolk mixes brilliantly with the “Kaya Secret Sauce”.  As a side, you get to choose your fancy of chips or fries (regular or sweet potato).  The sweet potato fries are a meal on their own.  Not in the burger mood?  You can feast on a variety of fish entrees like the Jerked Swordfish ($27) or munch on a small plate of their world-famous (should be anyhow) Conch Fritters ($9). 

Kaya Burger with sweet potato fries and extra Kaya sauce

        Even more exciting is that Kaya is also part of the Sunday brunch club from 11am-3pm.  Prepare to have you mind blown.  The island inspirations are in full force.  Kaya’s brunch is far from blasé (pssst…that means boring).  Take for example the overplayed eggs benedict you find at your average brunch spot.  It’s good enough, right? It has the English muffin, the poached egg is there, yep, and maybe the hollandaise is even decent.  Now go to Kaya and try the Slow Roasted Pork Benedict.  (No, seriously, go now.)  In place of that Thomas’ abomination is a pair of crispy cornbread discs, topped with tender roasted pork, perfectly poached eggs, and smoked pepper hollandaise sauce ($12). 

Slow Roasted Pork Benedict

         The omelettes are equally inspired. The Shrimp Omelette is loaded with perfectly cooked crustaceans, roasted sweet corn, cheese, and drizzled with key lime mustard.  You can try the roasted pork in an omelette too! ($12)  All egg dishes are served with freshly grilled pineapple, a medley of grilled potatoes and peppers, your choice of protein (house-made chorizo or bacon), and warm tortillas. 

Roasted Pork Omelette

         If you’re looking for fresh, inventive cuisine (island inspired or otherwise), give Kaya a try on your next Strip District trip.  You won’t be disappointed. 

I give Kaya: 5/5 forks 

Will I return?  Absolutely




Kaya

2000 Smallman Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222

(412) 261-6565