FROM THE STREETS
TO THE STOREFRONT.
THE SPARK
It didn't start with a grand plan. It started with a passion for flavor and a desire to bring people together. Founded by husband-and-wife team Demetrius and Jennifer Leeks, Smokin' DJ's began as a weekend hustle—a labor of love fueled by the belief that good food feeds the soul.
Demetrius, a barber by trade with a precision for detail, and Jennifer, a dedicated educator shaping young minds, combined their talents to launch "D on Wheelz" in 2017. It wasn't just a food truck; it was a mobile gathering spot. From pop-up events to late-night cravings, the aroma of their slow-smoked ribs and soul food became a beacon in Lake Wales.
THE GRIND
The road from a food truck to a brick-and-mortar restaurant is paved with early mornings and late nights. But the Leeks were built for the grind. In 2022, with the support of the community and a CRA grant, they took a leap of faith. They transformed a former barber shop in the heart of downtown Lake Wales into what is now Smokin' DJ's.
This wasn't just about opening a restaurant; it was about planting roots. It was about creating a space where the "South in Ya' Mouth" philosophy could live permanently. A place where the brisket is smoked for 14 hours not because it's easy, but because it's right. A place where every customer is greeted like family.
"SOUTH IN YA' MOUTH"
Our philosophy is simple: honest food, cooked with patience. We believe in the power of a good meal to strengthen community bonds. Whether you're a local or just passing through, you're family at Smokin' DJ's.