Soon Collegeville foodies won’t have to buy a plane ticket to Texas for a heaping helping of delicious barbecue or brisket. Shahezad Contractor, the brain behind the popular Cousin’s Burger chain, is bringing a brand-new concept called Cousin’s Smokehouse to Montgomery County in late spring, reports local media outlet 69News.
Collegeville’s next big barbecue joint will be moving into the distinctive Twistee Treat building that also housed Ateethi Indian Restaurant at 3960 Germantown Pike. Contractor tells What Now Philadelphia that he’s hoping to have his smoker up and running and ready to feed guests by the end of May.
Contractor explains that the idea for Cousin’s Smokehouse came from time spent living (and dining) in Texas. “I lived in Dallas for about a year and I enjoyed some amazing bbq out there.” he says. “I was like, ‘What can I do that would be a good thing for the community?’ I don’t think there are any places that serve brisket, ribs, etc. that’s why I came up with the concept to do a really high quality Texas style barbecue.”
He adds that the distinctive nature of the building appealed to him: “Our location-which is where I live, my hometown-is a really unique, cool location, and why not take it and make it into the Texas barbecue concept?”
Like all of Contractor’s concepts, Cousin’s Smokehouse will be an involved part of the community, complete with murals reflective of the surrounding neighborhood.
Contractor and the Cousin’s brand are having an exciting year. Cousin’s Burger is opening a new location at 44 North Eighth Street in Allentown on May 3. Visitors who stop in for the grand opening can enjoy a free smashburger, fries and soda between 3 and 5 pm.
Additionally, Cousin’s has expansion on the mind. Contractor explains that the company has signed a 5 location deal with local property management companies and has plans to develop a more budget friendly burger option under the Cousin’s umbrella. Already beloved throughout the local community, Cousin’s is preparing to broaden its reach. The concept will be going international soon, and is working on opening Tampa, Atlanta, and California locations by the end of 2025. Contractor explains that while he is considering franchising, the most important and essential thing is ensuring the quality remains unimpeachable and delivers the Cousin’s product fans have come to know and love.
