“The best barbecue in the Middle East ” is now open in Fort Worth.
Smokey Beards Q started with “Tony” Ramadani, who previously helped open Mamma Mia Italian Grill at 3124 E. Belknap St. The Italian restaurant closed after 19 years last February. Ramadani plans to reopen the Belknap space with his Texas barbecue restaurant.
After 10 years in the North Texas pizza and pasta scene, Ramadani left in 2019 to bring Hill Country barbecue to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ramadani, his brother Sonny and former rapper Mutah Beale (also known as Napoleon of Tupac’s Outlawz) opened the Middle East restaurant.
Smokey Beards Q in Riyadh serves smoked brisket and ribs over acacia wood with house-made barbecue sauce, fries, beans, potato salad, mac and cheese and coleslaw.
Restaurant News
After developing a celebrity following and being recognized as the best barbecue in Riyadh, Ramadani thinks Texans will like his barbecue too.
When will Smokey Beards Q in Fort Worth be open?
Smokey Beard’s is open three days a week, Thursday through Saturday, from 5 to 10 p.m., or until sold out, according to the restaurant’s Instagram page.
What’s on the menu at Smokey Beards Q?
Smokey Beards Q serves brisket and beef ribs — no pork.
The Texas location will smoke the meats in the classic Hill Country way with oak, pecan or hickory chips.
The meat rub is simple: Salt, pepper, garlic, paprika and a little cayenne.
Customers in Riyadh love the smoked brisket sandwiches and skin-on fries. There are also smoked meat platters.
Where to find Smokey Beards Q in Fort Worth
Customers can find Smokey Beards Q at 3124 E Belknap St. in Fort Worth.
Pro tip: arrive at opening or early to avoid Smokey Beards selling out.
©2026 Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Visit star-telegram.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Staff writer Anna Butler contributed to this report.