A new restaurant has opened in Belleville. Here is what’s on its tasty menu
In case you missed it, AJ’s Smashed & Smoked opened on Wednesday, Nov. 10, at 6980 W. Main St. in Belleville.
AJ’s is housed in the former Jefferson’s Restaurant, which closed in September, and is run by the same family.
Owner Jim Grindstaff said that “things are good” and that he’s “happy to be back over here.” Grindstaff also owns Jack Nolen’s in Soulard.
When Jefferson’s was preparing to close, Grindstaff said that he wanted to make sure he had a place for its employees to go.
So he opened AJ’s.
AJ’s offers up a selection of cheeseburgers, hot dogs and other sandwiches. The menu also lists plant-based Chicken Nuggies that “look like the real deal” as well as fries served in different ways and several sides.
Grindstaff added that some customers are a little disappointed that they “don’t do wings anymore” due to a non-compete agreement with Jefferson’s.
AJ’s will be closed Friday, Dec. 24 through Friday, Dec. 31 for the holidays.
Grindstaff said he does this at all of his restaurants. They get time off, with pay, to enjoy the holidays with their families.
“It keeps people happy and excited about coming to work,” Grindstaff said.
AJ’s Smashed & Smoked is located at 6980 W. Main St. in Belleville and is open for dine-in, carryout and online ordering. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
For more information about AJ’s, visit the website at smashedandsmoked.com.
