Corky's Smoke Shack Returns to Severna Park

Corky's Smoke Shack's original cook is back, and the stand has reopened in the Clement Hardware parking lot on Robinson Road.

The BBQ stand was a Severna Park favorite three years ago when it first opened but it closed after just a year. Brett Stahl, the general manager and cook, is back and the stand is open for business once again.

"Corky's offers people great prices, because I don’t have a lot of overhead," Stahl said. "They will also get great service. It offers them a cheaper choice to dine out."

Stahl, who has opened two BBQ restaurants in Michigan, graduated from Severna Park High School in 1982 and actually had his first job right across the street from Corky's at Pappy’s Pizza, where the Walgreen's sits now.

After spending years in the restaurant business, in Michigan and as a manager at Applebee’s, Stahl decided he was tired of working in the big, corporate lifestyle and wanted to make a change.

"I just didn't want to do the corporate world anymore," Stahl said. "I wanted the small-town thing. I like working for myself and coming up with my own product and my own recipes."

Corky's Smoke Shack offers quality pork, cut fresh everyday. Stahl said pulled pork sandwiches are his specialty, and he features two different kinds of sauces—a traditional sauce and a spicier one. The menu also offers pulled chicken, ribs, appetizers, fish, brisket and more. The rolls are also delivered fresh every morning from Maranto’s.

“We have a high quality product at a very reasonable price with very friendly service,” Stahl said. “I know it sounds cliché, and everyone says that, but I really feel we offer that. Everyday we cut the pork. Everything is fresh everyday.”

Stahl said the reception from area residents since Corky’s return has been great. He said everyone seems happy to have the BBQ stand back.

Once spring comes, Stahl plans to finish the deck outside the stand and get more picnic tables. But for now he is just happy to be back in the small-town business, talking to customers and making BBQ.

“I just like interacting with all the guests and giving them free samples,” he said. “I talk to every single person that comes by. It’s just a little BBQ stand where people can come by—talk, eat and have a good time.”

Corky's Smoke Shack is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday; and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information or catering inquires call 410-544-4440.

Go to Corky's and mention this Patch article and Stahl will give you a free sample.