A Legacy Born in Phoenix
In 1925, a modest building on 9th Street and Pierce in Phoenix, Arizona, opened as a Safeway grocery store, serving the local community. In 1952, after World War II, the Ang family—refugees chasing a new life—purchased it and created American Way Market. For the Angs, the name embodied the American Dream: a testament to sacrifice, resilience, and opportunity. Through decades of hard work, they built a legacy, making “American Way” a symbol of hope and community.
Inspired by the American Dream
In 2010, Mike Moore, a 4th-generation Arizona native and owner of Merchant Square Antique Mall in Chandler, discovered the market’s old signs and fixtures. Deeply moved by the Ang family’s sacrifice and pursuit of the American Dream, he adopted the American Way name for a new restaurant in Merchant Square, a vibrant, nostalgic destination filled with history. Like the Angs, Mike poured his heart into building something meaningful, driven by shared values of hard work.
From Pizzas to a Bold Vision
Initially, the restaurant offered pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, inspired by Gilbert’s Liberty Market to attract Merchant Square’s diverse visitors. Mike’s passion for Arizona’s bold, communal flavors grew, leading to a shift. When Bill Johnson’s Big Apple Steak House closed, he bought their industrial smokers at auction, embracing barbecue—a craft rooted in Arizona’s culinary traditions. This bold vision redefined the restaurant’s path, honoring the state’s heritage.
The Birth of American Way Smokehouse
By 2014, the restaurant was reborn as American Way Smokehouse, a tribute to the Ang family’s legacy and Mike’s devotion to Arizona. Nestled in Merchant Square Antique Mall, it serves slow-smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, and pastrami sandwiches, crafted with quality ingredients. Vegan and gluten-free options ensure all guests enjoy a meal. The nostalgic ambiance invites diners to savor a taste of history, connecting past and present.
Our Mission and Gratitude
Our mission is to honor the past, serve with purpose, and celebrate America’s traditions. Eat good food. American Way Smokehouse, in Chandler’s Merchant Square, reflects the American Dream in every bite. Thank you, guests, for joining our story. Visit us to experience barbecue that carries forward the legacy of hard work and community, inspired by the Ang family and Mike Moore’s vision.
God bless our guests. God bless America.