How The Smokey Sermon went from a backyard hobby to a growing business

For decades, Krash Kowal has been perfecting his BBQ recipes, building what he calls his personal “bible” of dishes. Today, that passion has evolved into The Smokey Sermon, a fully permitted MEHKO (Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation) food business. With the assistance of ICON’s Sidewalk Vending Program he has been able to navigate the complex process and transform his backyard hobby into a legal and growing business. Obtaining the Mehko permit has also facilitated the process of being chosen to receive a Grill Cart from the LA County Free Cart Program. Krash moved to California in 1987, where he began working at a Philly Sandwich restaurant, and quickly made his way up to manager. Later, he built a career working as a grip in the film industry. However, like many others, he lost his source of income during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. With determination and a passion for cooking, Krash decided to turn his longtime backyard hobby into a real business. What started in his backyard eventually moved to the front yard, and then into the streets. Before coming to ICON, Krash had been struggling to navigate the business and regulatory side of the food industry. With guidance from the Sidewalk Vending team, however, he gained the knowledge and confidence needed to move forward. At ICON he was introduced to Mehko and a clear, step-by-step pathway to legalizing his business. Krash expressed deep gratitude for the sidewalk vending team, especially Mauricio, who thoroughly explained and assisted him with obtaining his Los Angeles City Business License, Seller’s Permit, Mehko permit, and successfully preparing for his health inspection.

Krash’s MEHKO inspection focused on ensuring he understood key food safety practices, including proper temperatures for storing hot and cold foods, safe defrosting procedures, and maintaining the correct temperatures in refrigerators and freezers. Inspectors also reviewed the cleanliness and functionality of his kitchen equipment, as well as proper food storage and handling practices, particularly for high-risk foods. Thanks to the preparation and support he received through the program, Krash felt confident and ready for the inspection process. Today, he is proud to see his dream becoming a reality as The Smokey Sermon continues to grow. He currently operates from his home a few days a week, building clientele using social media. He consistently engages and posts his menu the day before he operates.

The Smokey Sermon offers a wide range of smoked BBQ favorites, including beef ribs, pork ribs, tri-tip, brisket, chicken, sausages, pulled pork, and pulled tri-tip. Customers can also enjoy sides such as beans, slaw, salad, and rice. Krash even prepares smoked bone marrow treats for customers’ dogs. In addition to hot food, he sells house-made products including BBQ rubs, smoked salsas, pickles, “Kowboy Kandy,” and jerky. He is currently continuing to receive assistance from the Sidewalk Vending team as he has been chosen to receive a Grill Cart. Obtaining his MEHKO permit has facilitated this process, as he has an approved kitchen to source his Grill Cart from. He is currently receiving assistance with the CMFO Health Inspection application process, which will consist of him demonstrating that he knows how to operate his cart. Sourcing his CMFO from his MEHKO kitchen, will allow him to sell up to 80 dishes a day, and up to 200 per week. Ultimately, Krash hopes to expand to a brick-and-mortar location in the future.