The downtown Newhall restaurant, Southern Smoke BBQ and Brewhouse, has begun serving chili from another popular restaurant: Chili John’s in Burbank. While Chili John’s has been going strong for nearly 70 years, the new menu addition will only serve to add to the popularity of the just over one-year-young Southern Smoke.

Southern Smoke co-owner Sam Gardian said, “We are honored and delighted to partner with such an icon.”

The chili will be offered on the menu as a side or a main dish, depending on whatever other items diners will be tempted with. Gardian already does a brisk business, recently adding in Chicken and Waffles to the menu.

Popular items currently served at Southern Smoke include Sliders (two) – Brisket, Pulled Pork or Pulled Chicken topped with coleslaw, or kicked up Wasabi slaw; “Widow Maker” – Two single grind brisket patties, onion jam, spring mix lettuce, Applewood smoked bacon, avocado, sharp cheddar, five blend cheese sauce, topped with a fried egg; PB and J – Single grind brisket patty, smoked Applewood bacon, blackberry jam and peanut butter; Hoe Cake – A Southern minimalist cornbread favorite topped with homemade honey butter, Fleur de Sel and chives. Made and served in a sizzling cast iron skillet.

Southern Smoke BBQ and Brewhouse, 24255 Main St, Santa Clarita, California 91321, telephone 661-888-4585. Hours: Monday Closed, Tuesday through Thursday 11am to 10pm, Friday 11am to 11pm, Saturday – 8:00am to 11pm and Sunday 8:00am to 10pm. A full breakfast menu is available Saturday and Sunday only from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.