The Smokin Buddha

Description

Food.
Culture. Community. The name and concept "The Smokin' Buddha" was conceived with friends while sipping sake under a kotatsu (heated coffee table) near Hiroshima, Japan in 1998. While in Japan, where Kevin took on the role of everything from a mushroom farmer, to a pizza delivery guy, to a blushing groom, he kept a constant eye on his dream of opening up a casual, interactive place where people could get together, share stories of their travels, (or dream up new ones), while enjoying their favourite foods from around the world. After returning to Canada, Kevin studied radio sales and worked in local radio for two years. But the lure of the hospitality business was strong, and after a few years managing restaurants and tending bars it was finally time for Kevin to make his own dream a reality. On July 7th, 2005 "the Smokin' Buddha" made its debut at the Port Colborne Farmers Market. The first products were California rolls and curry pastes, which were sold out of a red Coleman cooler. Over time, the menu expanded (and so did the cooler!) and in 2006, the Buddha expanded to the Fonthill and Welland Markets. At that time, the Smokin' Buddha was using the kitchen at the Port Colborne Legion to prepare all of the Market food. Finally, on October 5th, 2007, with strong support within our community and the Niagara Region, the Smokin' Buddha Restaurant opened its doors in the old train station in Port Colborne. The original plan for the restaurant was to serve globally inspired appetizers accompanied by craft beers and wines, modeled after the Izakaya concept in Japan (fun, lively little pubs). This concept evolved over time and the menu grew to include feel-good foods from all over the world. We hope the Smokin' Buddha's inspires you to discover new foods, travel more often, and meet new friends along the way.