The Hudson Smokehouse
The Client
In 2022, the Lundquist family opened their first restaurant in Ironton, Minnesota, as a welcoming pit stop for cyclists exploring the town and the stunning bike trails in the historic Iron Range. Steeped in Nordic heritage, they transformed the site of the town’s former Hudson auto dealership into a unique eatery that pays homage to its roots—thus, “The Hudson” was born. A beloved gathering spot for locals and seasonal tourists alike, The Hudson gained popularity with their barbecue nights, signaling it was time for something bigger.
The Mission
Following the success of their barbecue nights, The Hudson made the bold decision in 2024 to transition from a café to a full-fledged smokehouse. While their website’s structure supported their business goals, the design no longer aligned with their evolving brand. They needed a darker, smokier aesthetic to reflect their new identity as a barbecue hotspot.
The Impact
The redesigned website captures the rebrand of The Hudson Smokehouse with rich woodgrain textures, stainless steel accents, and mouthwatering barbecue photography. Previously, maintenance of the site included streamlined menu updates and online ordering, added to the new look which incorporates a dynamic blog and a food truck tracker to keep fans connected. The new design and functionality establish The Hudson Smokehouse as the ultimate destination for Cuyuna’s barbecue lovers.