New BBQ restaurant holds soft opening in Fresno's Tower District

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A new barbeque restaurant has opened in Fresno's Tower District.

BenSmokin BBQ started as a catering business during the pandemic but now it has a brick-and-mortar location at Palm and Olive.

The family-owned spot has some unique items such as a barbecue burrito.

Bernard Mendoza, the co-owner, says the restaurant's name is a tribute to his late father.

"It just came to me let's honor my dad's name by serving some bbq in this town and it just came to life by that little idea right there," said Mendoza.

BenSmokin BBQ is testing operating hours and menu items, including vegetarian options.

Right now, it's open Wednesday through Saturday from noon to 7 pm.

A grand opening celebration is set for August 26th with live music, bounce houses, pony rides, and raffle prizes.