Sweet Auburn Barbecue Presents the First-Ever Good Luck Smokeshow

On Wednesday May 14 2025 Sweet Auburn Barbecue is shutting down the street and firing things up for the first-ever Good Luck Smokeshow — a one-night tasting event honoring Asian American stories flavors and firepower. Timed with AAPI Heritage Month this outdoor celebration brings together acclaimed chefs from across the country to throw down in Atlanta with food drinks lion dances live music and a community that shows up.

Hosted by Anita and Howard Hsu— siblings second-generation Chinese Americans and pioneers in Atlanta’s hospitality scene. What started as a family-run food truck in the Sweet Auburn Curb Market has grown into two beloved brick-and-mortars and a reputation for redefining what Southern barbecue can be. The Hsus have always led with their roots and Good Luck Smokeshow is an extension of that legacy: a gathering of chefs who aren’t just making great food — they’re telling their stories on their own terms.

 The lineup features heavy hitters from James Beard-recognized talent to rising voices including Nikko Cagalanan Quy Hoang and brothers Terry and Robin Wong of Blood Bros. BBQ Chef J Chong Peter Nguyen and Thai Changthong. And that’s just the start. Local Atlanta favorites including Leftie Lee’s Soupbelly Brian So (Spring) Salty Smiles So So Fed and Hapa ATL will also be bringing the heat alongside show stopping performances rooftop tunes and standout cocktails powered by Minhwa Spirits and Sweet Auburn Barbecue.

Expect lion dances kung fu demos community vendors and a room (or block) full of people who know what’s up. Tickets are $125 and include all tastings drinks and full access to the experience and can be purchased at www.sweetauburnbbq.com/events-1/good-luck-smokeshow. A portion of proceeds benefits Asian American Voices for Education supporting more inclusive curriculum in Georgia schools.

Also check out other Food & Drink events in Atlanta, Music events in Atlanta.