Smhokin’ Pot Owner Calvin “Chef C” Alexander Has Died Due to Complications From COVID-19 | Eater LA

"Originally launched as a Cajun-inspired catering and food-truck operation in 2015, Smhokin’ Pot grew into one of the South Bay’s most popular mobile food businesses before debuting a permanent restaurant in Carson in April 2021, just across from Dignity Health Sports Park and Cal State Dominguez Hills. Drawing on Southern and Cajun flavors he learned from his parents, Chef Calvin “Chef C” Alexander became known for rave-reviewed gumbo and a signature garlic-forward repertoire—most notably a Hawai’i-inspired garlic shrimp that showcases the same garlic flavor used on chicken wings and lobster. His inventive takes on classics included gumbolaya with smothered fries, lobster mac and cheese, whiskey sauce chicken wings, and even a meatless jambalaya; Alexander’s recipe method was to "do a little dibble-dabble, a little sprinkle," and his mantra was to make food so good it "makes you wanna slap yo momma...but don’t slap yo momma." After more than four years operating the truck and serving at local jazz festivals, farmers markets and to hospital coworkers, the team says they plan to keep the restaurant running to carry on his legacy." - Matthew Kang