Our Story
37 Years in the Making.
A Lifetime of Passion.
Catering isn't just my profession; it’s my calling. Read how Master Baker Valerie Sandie GAUSIZULA blends pastry science with fire.
"Since the 1970s, I’ve been answering the call of the kitchen."
Before the world was obsessed with "street food" and "fusion," I was a nine-year-old in Africa perfecting Christmas cakes and rock cakes for my teachers. In the 70s, we didn't have cameras to capture the steam rising from the oven—we just had the aroma, the hard work, and the joy of a satisfied customer. Today, I bring those decades of intuition and my City & Guilds mastery to the Smokay BBQ grill.
Smokay BBQ is the culmination of nearly four decades of dedication. It is where the technical precision of a Master Baker meets the raw, soulful energy of outdoor fire-cooking.
My culinary journey began at the young age of eight (with cooking sparks starting as early as five), igniting a lifelong passion for cooking and baking. As a qualified chef, baker, and skilled cake decorator, I pride myself on creating authentic recipes rooted in home cooking principles and utilising the freshest raw ingredients. Beyond the kitchen, delivering exceptional service is an equally important aspect of my commitment.
City & Guilds Mastered
Baking, Cake Decorating & Hospitality Management.
The Philosophy
Where Flavours Dance
We don't believe in "standard" BBQ. We believe in Global Soul Food. Our menus are a vibrant map of heritage and travels:
Afro-Caribbean Islands
The rhythmic heat of Scotch Bonnet peppers, pimento berries, and long slow cooking over seasoned coals.
Mediterranean Herbs
The fresh, zesty combination of wild oregano, rosemary, garlic, and fresh extra virgin olive oils.
Lebanese & Turkish Grills
Aromatic spices like Urfa Biber, sumac, cumin, and cardamom met with the high-heat intensity of the flame.
The Silk Road Umami
The deep, savory warmth of Chinese five-spice, ginger, garlic, and sweet tamarind marinades.
The Smokay Difference
When you hire Smokay, you aren't just getting a caterer; you’re getting a craftsman. Because of my background in professional baking, every flatbread is hand-stretched, and every dessert is made with a decorator’s eye. We bring the "theatre" of the grill to your outdoor event, ensuring that whether you are a meat-lover or a vegan, the food on your plate has soul.
Decades of Intuition
Answering the kitchen's call since the 1970s. Experience that predates modern food trends, rooted in deep sensory knowledge.
Master Baker Precision
City & Guilds qualified in baking, cake decorating, and hospitality management. Applying pastry standards to outdoor grilling.
Inclusive Excellence
Ensuring vegan, vegetarian, and meat-loving guests all enjoy the same rhythmic 'flavour dance' on their plates.
Ready to Collaborate?
We design custom menus for weddings, private gatherings, and corporate events. Let's arrange a consultation to draft your custom flavor journey.