Drew Allen, owner of Showcase BBQ in Homewood, moves swiftly. If you can’t keep pace with his speed, you might lose sight of him amid a haze of smoke. Patrons queue up before the restaurant opens, eagerly anticipating the savory, finger-licking taste of his ribs that are hailed by many as the best in Pittsburgh.
With a low baritone voice, Allen exudes a cool aura. He’ll hop on the grill at a moment’s notice and be right at the front door to assist a longtime elderly customer to her car.
Once known as DJ Drake Steelz, Allen, 53, would spin tracks at the Civic Arena and various other Pittsburgh venues. His goal of creating an under-21 club led him to culinary endeavors, initially while renovating the space on Braddock Avenue in Homewood.
There were permit issues, and with his last $150 he decided to hold a fish fry.
“I just started cooking,” he said.
He started Showcase BBQ in 2003, moved it to Frankstown Avenue in 2008 and bought the building.
Allen initially had a simple menu with sides of baked beans, green beans and mac n’ cheese to complement the main dishes. Today, the menu is more extensive with homemade moist cornbread that’s a satisfying addition to any plate and other sides, including red rice and beans, broccoli and cheese, yams and potato salad. Hot sandwiches include a chicken hoagie, beef brisket, pulled pork and more with varying availability.