A new high-end barbecue restaurant called Annapolis SmokeHouse has opened its doors in the Hillsmere shopping center.

"This has been a dream of ours for a long time," co-owner Jennifer Krohn said.

She and partner Steven Gaines returned to Annapolis from California in June 2011 with the intent of opening a restaurant. The couple signed a lease on the space at 107 Hillsmere Dr. in February.

"I knew if we were going to open a restaurant it would be in Annapolis where we have a network of family and friends," Jennifer Krohn said. "My uncle is actually the pit master. He's been smoking meat in his backyard for many, many years."

Jennifer Krohn's uncle, Robert Krohn, wanted to open a more traditional barbecue joint but she and Gaines wanted a place with a bar that was more upscale. So, they combined their visions and the SmokeHouse was born.

Her uncle did get his way when it came to the kitchen. They spent $30,000 on a Southern Pride smoker.

"This is the only smoker like this in the city of Annapolis," Gaines said.

The smoker slow-cooks the meat giving it a more tender and distinct flavor. Krohn noted that the menu offers more than a range of smoked meats, including homemade humus, veggie burgers and onion rings dipped in a Natty Boh batter.

Entrees range from $10 to $30 and the restaurant is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to midnight.

Do you plan on checking out the Annapolis SmokeHouse?