Usher’s mother, entrepreneur Jonnetta Patton, opened J’s Smokehouse in Doraville, Georgia, in August 2024. Despite being described as a restaurant in some coverage, it was a barbecue trailer—a mobile restaurant—not a conventional dining room.
What is the name of Jonnetta Patton’s restaurant?
The business is J’s Smokehouse. Eater Atlanta reported that it opened on August 2, 2024, and Atlanta News First previewed the opening on July 31, saying it was scheduled for that Friday. The opening coverage identified Patton as the owner.
The title uses “Johnnetta,” while news reports spell her name “Jonnetta” or “Jonetta.” This article uses “Jonnetta,” the spelling used in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and Atlanta News First coverage.
Where was J’s Smokehouse located?
Atlanta News First gave the opening address as 3996 Pleasantdale Road, Suite 104B, Doraville, Georgia. That is the reported 2024 opening address; it should not be treated as confirmation of the trailer’s current location.
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What was on the opening menu?
Opening coverage described a barbecue menu with smoked turkey legs, brisket, ribs and chicken, alongside vegan choices. Atlanta News First and Eater Atlanta mentioned vegan pulled pork and hot dogs. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s later profile also listed kale salad and plant-based chili dogs.
The AJC identified the Ms. J’s Tennessee Cajun fried chicken sandwich as a signature dish. It was topped with macaroni and cheese, yams and broccoli slaw. Executive chef Gregory Dennis worked with Patton on the menu.
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How did the barbecue trailer take shape?
Patton chose to begin with a smaller camper-style trailer rather than a food truck. The AJC quoted her explaining the practical concern: “If it needs to go to the shop, then you’re out of business for the day.”
Dennis told the AJC he smoked brisket, turkey legs and other meats at 200 F. Describing the technique, he said, “The key is to judge how far the coal is from the meat.” Those details come from the 2024 profile and describe the reported cooking approach at the time.
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The trailer was situated near JPat Management and J’s Kitchen Culinary Incubator, Patton’s separate shared-kitchen venture. FOX 5 reported in August 2024 that the incubator had been established in 2016.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is J’s Smokehouse open now?
Current operating status, hours and the trailer’s location are not established by the opening reports. J’s Smokehouse has an official food-trailer menu page, but a menu listing alone does not confirm that the business is currently serving customers. Check directly with the business before making a trip; the menu and dish availability may also change.
Quick Recap
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