This story was originally published by COOK Alliance.
With more than two decades of experience in the culinary industry, Chef Adam Morales discovered a passion for barbecue that kindled the flames of his entrepreneurial spirit. Smokey Lips BBQ began as a hobby. It then evolved into a full-time venture when the pandemic forced the closure of the upscale steakhouse where Chef Adam served as Executive Chef. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu culinary school, Chef Adam’s culinary background and Mexican heritage inform his craft. While he’s grateful for everything he learned in the restaurant industry, Chef Adam loves his newfound creative freedom as a MEHKO.
“This is something that I’m doing to create a legacy for my family, something that I can leave to my children and be proud of. When I retire I want to be able to say I created something, I didn’t just work for Joe Schmoe my whole life. 99% of everything I do is for my family. This is a labor of love- when I work a 21 hour day tossing logs into a fire and trimming brisket, making side dishes, sauces, cornbread, and desserts from scratch, part of it is my passion, but ultimately everything is for my family.“
Customers love his innovative take on traditional barbecue. He offers classics like pulled pork and brisket alongside specialties like pork belly char siu, smoked A5 Wagyu beef, and truffle mac and cheese. Chef Adam aims to take Smokey Lips BBQ to the next level with a brick-and-mortar location.
Smokey Lips BBQ operates in Cathedral City (Riverside County).