Two longtime friends in the UAE have transformed their shared love for barbecue into a growing business that is gaining attention at Taste of Abu Dhabi 2026. Hunter Burkall and Dave Kimmerly, who first met while working in security consulting, have spent around 20 years building a strong friendship. Their business, Exit 10 BBQ, specialises in designing and manufacturing high-quality barbecue smokers. What started as a personal project has developed into a business supplying customers in different countries. Their journey combines friendship, family traditions and a shared passion for cooking over fire.
How a Simple Idea Became a Business
The idea behind Exit 10 BBQ emerged during the pandemic when Hunter was spending time in Thailand with his son, preparing smoked brisket together. Wanting to continue those special family moments after returning to the UAE, he approached Dave, an experienced engineer, to help build a smoker. Although Hunter initially presented a simple hand-drawn sketch, Dave transformed the idea into a functional design. After successfully completing the first smoker, Dave decided he wanted one for himself as well. That second order eventually became the starting point of their business partnership.
UAE Manufacturing Takes Their Business Beyond Borders
One of the key features of Exit 10 BBQ is its commitment to local manufacturing. Rather than importing finished equipment, the founders work with UAE-based factories and fabricators to design and produce their smokers locally. Their products are made using heavy steel, with some models weighing approximately 400 kilograms and larger versions reaching around 2.3 tonnes. The business has also expanded beyond the UAE, with its smokers reaching customers in countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The founders aim to demonstrate the potential of locally developed products in the international market.
Exit 10 BBQ Brings Family Cooking to Taste of Abu Dhabi
The company's participation in Taste of Abu Dhabi 2026 came after a specialised grill project for UAE barbecue champion Frederic Casagrande opened the door to the event. This year, Hunter and Dave are conducting two classes daily, encouraging families to explore barbecue cooking and learn more about the process. Their sessions focus on sharing knowledge, answering questions and creating enjoyable experiences for visitors. For both founders, cooking is more than preparing food; it is a tradition passed between generations. Through Exit 10 BBQ, they hope to bring people together through family, food and fun.
Share This Post
