East Providence just got tastier. As the first week of the 2026 New Year unfolds, the smell of real Southern BBQ is officially in the air with the opening of Big Mike’s Smokehouse at 35 Warren Avenue.
If the location sounds familiar, that’s because Big Mike’s Smokehouse sits right next door to The Comedy Connection, New England’s premier comedy club. The team leaned into that fun connection in the best possible way — through the menu. Several items are playfully named Comedy Menu Specials, including The Connection, Laugh Track, and The Laughing Cow Smashie, a Big Mike’s Double Smashburger served with fries or onion rings and classic cole slaw. It’s the perfect pre-show or post-show bite, or honestly, just a great excuse to stop by.
Behind the smoke and flavor is Owner and Chief Pitmaster “Big” Mike, a South Carolina native who brings authentic Southern BBQ traditions straight from his family kitchen to East Providence. His approach has earned recognition for combining time-honored recipes with the regional tastes he grew up enjoying. This East Providence location marks Big Mike’s second BBQ restaurant, following the success of Becky’s BBQ in Middletown, and that experience shows from the moment you walk in.
Everything at Big Mike’s Smokehouse is done the right way. Meats are quality sourced, sides are made in-house, and the pork, ribs, chicken, and brisket are slow-cooked and smoked with 100% real hickory. The menu goes well beyond BBQ plates, offering a wide range of combo options, pulled meats, smashburgers, Big Mike’s Fish & Chips, and even Piglet Meals for the kids. Planning a party or event? They’ve got a catering menu ready to go as well.
Big Mike’s Smokehouse is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. To learn more, explore the menu, or plan your visit, head to www.bmsmokehouse.com
Join EastProv Hospitality in wishing Big Mike’s Smokehouse much success, and a big thank you to Big Mike and his team for choosing East Providence as home. We’re thrilled to welcome this experienced BBQ crew to the neighborhood — and even happier to have real Southern BBQ right here in the city.
