Schroeder's Smoked Foods celebrates 1st year in business

He's an unlikely cook, but maybe that's because Marlin came into the kitchen through the back door.  As a welder, he built cookers and smokers for individuals and, of course, wanted to provide quality products so occasionally tested the smokers.  Then, somewhere along the line the cooking bug bit him so for a long time he welded during the week and perfected pork, rubs, and cooked on weekends. Then, when health problems coincided with requests for his food the decision to change careers was, as they say, a no-brainer.

Marlin said that while medical difficulties played a part in opening Schroeder's Smoked Foods, he had cooked good food for a lot of years. He added, " I enjoyed food, and knew I had to do something [with that]." Schroeder loves to cook in spite of long hours and lack of sleep when he's booked up.  "When you own your own business the work never ends, there are no set hours, and the work is always there." He added with conviction, "I didn't have to [open Schroeder's Smoked Foods], I wanted to."

  In preparation for a place to dine-in, Marlin reconfigured half of his building and Viola!, Schroeder's Smoked Foods was born on May 1st, 2007. But as some of you already know, Schroeder offers much more than just a restaurant.  To round out his services Marlin also offers carry out, catered meals, and vending services. All of his food can be carried out rather than dining in.  He also caters events for families events, corporate functions for any number of people, but occasionally for as few as 200-500 meals.  The accomplished cook also provides vending ­ meals for large crowds attending bike and car shows, and sometimes up to 3000 people.  But for those who like to go out to eat, Schroeder's is located at 204 1st Street in Shelton and is open from 10 a.m.-- 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. -- 2 p.m.

on Sundays.

Besides cooking, for Marlin meeting people from all over is a great part of having Schroeder's.  He also loves being a sponsor and member of Huskerpedia (However, I cannot describe his look of bewilderment when he heard I didn't know Huskerpedia!). Because of his involvement in the sport he cooks and provides the fans food at every Husker home game. Smoked pork loin is his specialty, so he makes that for every game plus other delicious dishes.

Marlin said he prepares enough food for 800 and sells it until it's gone, which usually takes only about 30-40 minutes.

In addition to welding, cooking, preparing for weddings and special events, etc., over the past few years he's also competed and won many awards and trophies in cooking events. For example, in 2005 he participated in Omaha's River City Roundup. And in the same year when he and his team took 1st place in pork ribs at Cabela's Cook Off in Kearney as well as 2nd in brisket, 7th in wild game, and 9th in chicken. All together that translates to 2nd place, overall.  Marlin said that although he enjoys competing on the circuit, he won't be participate this year because it requires more time than he has available.  Yes, his food and business are just THAT good!

Although he's very busy, Schroeder is delighted to focus on business that is growing by leaps and bounds. He's out of town for business several days a month but still offers $3.99 lunch specials, including baby back ribs on Thursday ­ mark your calendars! -- and a 3 meat buffet with salad bar daily for only $8.99. Marlin makes his own rub but wouldn't even give a hint how he makes it, so the next time you eat at Schroeder's Smoked Foods see if you can figure his secret spices. Also, help Marlin celebrate a great 1st year and terrific start to a wonderful future!

When you're hungry for great food see Marlin Schroeder either in Shelton or at Huskerland (the stadium) where he's located in the end zone by the bronze statue.  When planning special events don't hesitate to call Marlin to at

308-647-5796 or go to his website ­ www.schroedersmokedfoods.com.  Bon apetite!