The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope, West Virginia: Meet the Pitmaster
Best BBQ in West Virginia? The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope Delivers Texas-Style Flavor
We sat down with Executive Pitmaster Michael Kessinger (and also Lifelong friend and fellow Pitmaster Sammy Dean Gregory) of The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope, West Virginia. Tucked along Main Street in southern West Virginia, The Table Smokehouse delivers a standout outdoor dining experience rooted in authentic Texas-style barbecue and small-town hospitality. The setting is casual and welcoming, with pet-friendly outdoor seating that lets guests enjoy smoky, slow-cooked meats in a relaxed, community-driven atmosphere.
Image Credit: The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope, West Virginia
The cuisine centers on meats smoked low and slow—brisket, ribs, pulled pork—crafted on a large offset smoker for deep, rich flavor. Diners consistently highlight the brisket and sampler platters as some of the best in the region, paired with hearty sides and comfort-style dishes that elevate the experience beyond typical roadside BBQ.
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
Our day begins around 4:30 AM. It starts with fire management, then wrapping briskets and pork butts, seasoning ribs, cutting and seasoning chickens, and seasoning turkeys. Then we load the smoker with ribs, chicken, and turkeys. Once ribs start to show some pull from the bone, we wrap them with dry rub. When the chicken, ribs, and turkeys hit temp, the briskets and pork butts usually follow soon after.
Do you have a favorite pitmaster that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
My favorite pitmaster is Jeremy Yoder of Mad Scientist BBQ. Jeremy’s got a great following for a reason—he’s passionate, creative, and a total BBQ geek in the best way. I love how he dives into the science of it all, experimenting while keeping the focus on flavor. It makes the process as exciting as the final bite.
Be patient and stay curious. Barbecue is all about the long game, so embrace the time it takes. Learn the fundamentals: fire management, knowing your wood, and understanding your meat — but never stop experimenting. Every cook is a chance to get better. Most importantly, feed people with love—because you can taste the difference when you care.
Image Credit: The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope, West Virginia
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
We’re proud to have won the People’s Choice Award at the Taste of Bridge Day not once, but in both 2024 and 2025! These back-to-back wins reflect the incredible support from our community and the passion we put into every dish. It’s an honor we carry with pride as we continue to serve some of West Virginia’s best barbecue.
What do you typically cook at home?
At home, I keep things pretty classic but varied. Whole hogs are a special occasion project—nothing beats that celebration. Briskets are a favorite for perfecting that bark, while ribs and chicken make regular appearances for family dinners. Pork butts are always a reliable crowd-pleaser—whether it’s pulled pork sandwiches or something fun with leftovers.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
One food trend I’m really loving is the continued appreciation for properly smoked brisket. More people are taking the time to learn traditional barbecue techniques, and brisket is becoming a centerpiece. I enjoy the challenge of smoking brisket—from managing the fire to achieving perfect tenderness. It’s a rewarding craft.
What drink do you enjoy most?
I’m all about a good classic sweet tea. It’s refreshing and pairs perfectly with barbecue.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Yes, I’ve had the opportunity to cook for West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey. It was an honor to showcase the barbecue and hospitality that The Table Smokehouse is known for. Opportunities like that are always special, but whether I’m serving a governor or a first-time guest, my goal is the same — to provide great food, great service, and an experience people will remember.
Image Credit: The Table Smokehouse in Mt. Hope, West Virginia
What’s Your Instagram So Readers Can Follow You?
You can follow @thetable_wv on Instagram and on TikTok: The Table Smokehouse.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? AND did you like it?
One of the most unusual combinations I’ve tried involved black bear paired with other wild game. Wild meats have distinct flavors and trying them together was a memorable experience. It gave me a new appreciation for nature’s range of flavors. Yes, I did enjoy it! It was surprisingly rich and unique. It’s always interesting to step outside the usual, and experience new flavors.
Why should readers visit The Table Smokehouse in mt. Hope, West Virginia?
I’ve always had a passion for barbecue, cooking over live fire, and smoking meats. Growing up in my hometown of Mount Hope, West Virginia, I dreamed of creating a place where family, friends, and neighbors could gather around great food. That dream became a reality when I opened The Table Smokehouse. My goal was simple: serve authentic barbecue, create a welcoming atmosphere, and give back to the community that helped shape me. Today, it’s incredibly rewarding to see people from all over the region come together at The Table to enjoy great food and make lasting memories.
You should visit because we’re more than just a barbecue joint — we’re a family-owned business that pours heart and soul into every plate. We take pride in preparing the highest quality BBQ, slow smoked to perfection, and served with genuine hospitality, love, and care. When you visit The Table Smokehouse, you’re not just getting a meal—you're joining our community at the table.
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