BIG SAL'S UP IN SMOKE BBQ
About Us
My barbecue journey began back circa 2018, when I got my first taste of the craft using my first smoker a Member’s Mark Sam’s Club Off Set Smoker and my always reliable Weber grill. These were my starting tools, and they taught me the fundamentals of fire management, smoke, and searing. In those early days, I focused on Carne Asada, chicken and slowly started with ribs, ribeyes, and tri-tips, building a solid foundation and falling in love with the art of barbecue.
Over time, I began taking on bigger challenges like Briskets, Pork Butts, and Turkey Breasts constantly refining my techniques and expanding my repertoire. I eventually transitioned from traditional offset smoking and grilling to barrel smoking, and now I rely on Oklahoma Joe’s Bronco Pro as my primary tools for delivering consistent, high-quality results.
Now, with roughly five years in the game, barbecue has become more than a hobby—it’s a passion and a lifestyle. It’s my way of bringing people together over incredible food and creating lasting memories, one smoked cut of meat at a time.
-Big Sal
Team
Where the Passion Begins
Big Sal's Up In Smoke BBQ is a family owned and operated business
all working together to bring our touch into the Barbecue game
Sal Gonzalez
Owner
My journey in cooking is deeply rooted in my heritage and family traditions. I grew up immersed in the culinary arts, thanks to my grandmother from Purepero Michoacán, Mexico, who shared her knowledge of bold spices and rich Mexican flavors. Her influence for perfection gave me a foundation in cooking that I carry with me to this day.
On the other side, my cousin introduced me to the world of Texas barbecue.
From him, I learned the art of smoking meats low and slow, mastering the techniques and traditions that define these iconic styles.
Combining these two influences, I’ve built a unique approach to barbecue that blends authentic Mexican flavors with classic Texas techniques. Over the years, this fusion has become the cornerstone of my craft, whether I’m smoking briskets, grilling Ribeye Steaks, or creating unforgettable dishes for my customers at Big Sal’s Up in Smoke BBQ.
ANGEL GONZALEZ
PIT SUPERVISOR
Angel manages, controls fire and smoke on the pits as well as helps with trimming and seasoning
ADRIAN GONZALEZ
LOGISTICS
Adrian manages that all our catering and events are packed and ensures all and everything is on time and ready
SAMANTHA GONZALEZ
SALES
Samantha is part of our on site sales teams she will greet you with a smile and help take your order
MAYRA GARCIA
CATERING MANAGER
Mayra is our on site sales and catering manager she ensures all setups and operations run smoothly