The Smoke Co.

One Last Meal Before the Fire Went Out

Every once in a while, a restaurant comes along that quietly redefines the food culture of a city - and when it closes, it leaves behind more than just empty tables. A few months back, my feed was flooded with the bittersweet news that one of Bangalore’s most-loved spots, The Smoke Co., was shutting its doors for good. The very next week, I found myself in the city, determined to experience it one last time - on the very week they were closing.

The space buzzed with a nostalgic kind of energy. Regulars filled the tables, conversations carried a note of farewell, and the air was rich with that signature smokiness that once set this place apart.

Here's What I Had

Chicken Hush Puppies - Rs 350

Cornmeal-battered smoked chicken thigh and green chilli nuggets served with chipotle yoghurt and in-house BBQ sauce. The hush puppies were golden and crisp, the chicken inside tender and juicy. The chipotle yoghurt sauce stood out with its creamy, tangy balance, while the BBQ sauce leaned a touch too strong for my palate - though still true to the restaurant’s bold flavour profile. The cornmeal crust added an earthy crunch that elevated the whole dish.

The Smoke Co. Nachos (Smoked Chicken) - Rs 350

Not your everyday nachos here! these were an indulgent mix of crispy tortilla chips layered with chipotle nacho cheese, refried beans, salsa, jalapeños, pickled cucumbers, smoked chicken, and shredded cheddar. Served hot and generously topped, each bite carried a deep, savoury smokiness that reminded me exactly why this place was so revered.

Smoked Naga Beef - Rs 450

A true standout. North East–styled smoked and dried beef tossed with Naga chilli powder, fresh tomatoes, and bamboo shoot, served with traditional Goan poee - a hearty, whole-wheat bread. The meat was slightly dry, as expected from this preparation style, but packed with flavour and heat. It was rustic, unapologetic, and wonderfully unique. One of those dishes that could only have existed here.

Churros - Rs 300

Piped doughnuts dusted in cinnamon sugar and served with a chocolate chilli sauce. My first time trying churros, and I was instantly a fan. Warm, crisp, and perfectly sweet. The chilli-spiked chocolate dip was a bold twist, not my favourite, but certainly interesting.

Jack 'N' Smoke - Rs 900

A smoky cocktail featuring Jack Daniels, beer, kokum, and coke syrup, infused with mango wood. A perfect example of their experimental edge - smooth, layered, and just smoky enough to carry the restaurant’s signature all the way into the glass.