John McLaurin spent his career as a contractor for the U.S. government, often working with the military. During those years, he was only home for one to two months each year. After returning home to Fort Hood, he decided to spend more time with his wife and three children. Searching for the perfect spot to open his own business, McLaurin chose West Dallas because of its vibrant Trinity Groves area.
McLaurin has quickly become part of the West Dallas community. During his restaurant’s soft opening in July, he hosted the Run for the Blue 5k at Trinity Groves, an event supporting fallen and wounded officers and their families.
Rollin Smoke Barbeque, originally from Las Vegas, is now in Dallas under McLaurin’s management. As a first-time restaurant owner, he’s operating this franchise as a family-owned business. McLaurin has made some tweaks to the menu to appeal to Texas tastes. The restaurant is known for its southern-style meals, featuring down-home sides and hickory-smoked barbecue that’s so tender it falls off the bone.
“I’m excited to be part of the Dallas community,” McLaurin said. “My focus will be on quality food, keeping great employees, and giving back to those who served in the military and law enforcement.”
McLaurin’s menu includes a variety of delicious options like ribs, smoked chicken, sliders, pulled pork, hot links, brisket, rib tips, catfish, shrimp, smoked meatloaf, and hushpuppies. The dessert menu features homemade favorites such as peach cobbler, banana pudding, ice cream sundaes, and root beer floats.
Sam Romano, a partner at Trinity Groves, believes McLaurin is a great addition to the area. “We enjoy working with people who bring something new to the table, and John has a clear vision for his restaurant. The mouthwatering southern barbecue is sure to have customers coming back for more.”
Rollin Smoke is now open seven days a week at Trinity Groves, right next to Free Play Arcade. For more information and updates, visit trinitygroves.com or follow @trinitygroves on Instagram.
