Continuing To Break Boundaries – Smoky Sam’s BBQ

Gef’s 30 Under 30 celebrates the Isle of Man’s most inspiring young people, shining a light on those making waves in their industries and communities. One of these amazing winners, Sam Levi, who took home a Gef’s 30 Under 30 award in the Entrepreneurship Category in 2024, has been on an unstoppable journey of success over the last 12 months and shows no signs of stopping any time soon. 

Co-owning Smoky Sam’s BBQ with his partner Nicole Crawley (who was also an OG Gef’s 30 Under 30 winner! Power couple alert?!), the pair have been making their mark on the south of the island with pop ups at Foraging Vintners and the Cosy Nook, and now, they’re expanding once again with an exciting new venture. 

Sam and Nicole have taken over the former Secret Pizza Company premises on Farrants Way, transforming it into a more permanent home for their much-loved BBQ concept. Staying true to their passion for slow-cooked, flavour-packed food, the new venue promises an exciting menu featuring signature smoked meats, indulgent sides, and a drinks selection that includes handcrafted smokehouse cocktails, local beers, and carefully curated wines.

Speaking about the expansion, Sam shared: 

“It’s been a long journey, and we’ve poured our hearts into every detail—from transforming the building to crafting a menu that we’re truly proud of. Bringing something new and exciting to Castletown and the island means everything to us. We’ve always supported local producers, and that commitment shines through in this venture too.” 

BBQ food, wine and great vibes? Say less. 

The new Smoky Sam’s Castletown location officially opens on Wednesday, 12th February, with opening hours as follows: 

• Wednesday to Friday: 12:30pm – 2:30pm & 5:00pm – 9:00pm 

• Saturday & Sunday: 12:00pm – 9:00pm (food served all day) 

• Monday & Tuesday: Closed  

• Drinks will be available whenever the venue is open. 

The journey to expansion hasn’t been without its challenges. Sam and Nicole worked closely with the previous owners of Secret Pizza and liaised with Castletown Town Commissioners to bring their vision to life. Their hands-on approach has been key, tackling everything from renovating the space to perfecting their menu. 

Nicole reflected on the process, saying: 

“There have been nights where we’ve sat here thinking, ‘What are we doing?’ But then the next day, we step back and see what we’ve built – whether it’s a newly tiled floor or a fully designed menu – and we realise we’ve actually done a great job. The support has been overwhelming, and we can’t wait to welcome customers old and new to experience what we’ve created.” 

Sam’s story is exactly what Gef’s 30 Under 30 is all about – recognising young people who are making an impact and shaping the future of the island. Whether it’s in business, the arts, sports, or the community, the campaign highlights those who aren’t just dreaming big but making it happen. 

If you know someone who deserves to be celebrated, nominations for this year’s Gef’s 30 Under 30 are open until 17th March! Who will be the next rising star to follow in Sam’s footsteps? Stay tuned.

[Photo’s taken by Ben Thornton & Hannah McHugh]