Tropical Smokehouse unveils three massive announcements

From neighborhood cookouts to Japanese mayo collabs and a new Delray location, Tropical Smokehouse is making big moves this summer.

Image of Tropical Smokehouse's Smoke & Sunset Annual Cookout

First up: Smoke & Sunset, Tropical’s beloved annual cookout, is back—this time at a new, larger venue. On July 12, the team will take over Civil Society Brewery on Kanuga Drive for an evening of smoked specialties, local chef collaborations, live music by DJ Dubs, and a laid-back neighborhood vibe. Co-hosted by Celis Juice Bar, the event brings together a stacked lineup of local talent: Zipitios, Grato, Buccan Sandwich Shop, and Cholo Soy’s Clay Carnes, who’ll be serving Chancho Tacos with wood-roasted pork and pineapple salsa. Tropical will be manning the pits as always, including their signature whole hog BBQ. Tickets are $35 and include food; they go on sale July 1 at www.EatTropical.com

As part of the event, Civil Society is also brewing exclusive summer collab beers for both Celis and Tropical—another layer of a local partnership that’s grown over several years. “What started as a sandwich collab with Celis has become an annual tradition,” said Tropical co-owner Rick Mace. “This event is about bringing people together—neighbors, chefs, and makers.”

The second big reveal is that Tropical is teaming up with KEWPIE, Japan’s legendary condiment brand, on a limited-edition summer menu. Starting July 1, the West Palm Beach restaurant will feature a new selection of sandwiches and sides made with specialty KEWPIE products not yet widely available in the U.S.—including their Deep-Roasted Sesame Dressing.

“Each item is insanely craveable,” said Mace, who developed the menu after a formative trip to KEWPIE’s facilities in Japan while working under Chef Daniel Boulud. Among the highlights: Spicy Garlic Sesame Fries, brushed with garlic butter and topped with KEWPIE dressing and Tropical’s house Fire Sauce. The menu will be available for one month only.

Finally, Tropical Smokehouse has confirmed their Delray Beach location is opening this October, 2025. A third location is in the works along Atlantic Avenue, taking over the former Pour and Famous space. The new outpost will put a greater focus on ribs and burgers, while carrying over the same ingredient-driven, community-first approach that has defined Tropical since its 2021 debut.