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Inspiring Conversations with Jonathan Snider of Bristol Smoke House

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Snider.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I had always wanted to start a business. As I was thinking of what to start I landed on a BBQ food truck. In the South and West I loved the classic BBQ joints that were legendary for their craft. I saw we had nothing like that here. I found out quick why. BBQ is really tough. The cuts of meat are expensive. It takes a lot of time. And if you mess it up you wasted a lot of time and money. After much trial and error, blood sweat and tears, we got a rhythm going on making some great bbq. Though it’s a lot of work, it’s all worth it when someone says, “This is really good stuff!”

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Started with a commitment to smoke one item every week on my Weber. Then after we found out my wife was pregnant I sold my motorcycle that I was not going to be riding on anymore and bought my first smoker. After about 2 years of juggling a full time job, 2 kids, and the BBQ my full time job decided that I needed to choose between them or BBQ. I chose BBQ and started full time doing BBQ at the beginning of the off season. This is my first full year of doing BBQ and we learned a lot!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We’re a BBQ food truck specializing in classic BBQ made in small batches, from scratch. We focus on slow-smoked meats, homemade sides, and the flavors people love to gather around. BBQ is always the food of a special occasion, and we want to make every experience feel special. We pride ourselves not only on great food, but great hospitality.
It’s a long shot but I see that there’s Texas style and Carolina style and Pennsylvania needs its own style. We will see if organically we can work with our customers and try new methods and flavors our end to make a truly distinct style but it will take time.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Some people call it luck but I would call it God’s providence and he’s given me this opportunity to make something special.

Contact Info:

A shiny, modern food truck with a black and silver exterior, parked outdoors with residential buildings in the background.

A food truck parked on a street with trees and flowers nearby, under a clear blue sky.

Two men stand behind a buffet table under a tent, with food trays and condiments, outdoors with trees and a fence.

Food truck parked on grass with colorful trees in background, illuminated at night, with a cooler and sign outside.

Three hot dogs with toppings in a cardboard box on a metal surface, with a black container in the background.

Person dressed as Darth Vader stands in front of a shiny food truck with a window, outdoors on grass with trees and cars nearby.

A partially eaten taco with shredded meat, pickled onions, cheese, and lettuce in a paper tray.

Tray with four food sections: coleslaw, jalapeño and onion, fried item with pink sauce, beans, and ground beef with mashed potatoes

Divided tray with mashed potatoes, cucumber, cornbread, beans, shredded meat, and a biscuit.

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