Next time you’re heading up north, slide into Smokey Jake’s BBQ Restaurant in Aitkin. This unassuming gem of a Minnesota barbecue restaurant is on the way to many Minnesotans’ favorite spots for weekend getaways or fishing trips – and it also serves up some finger-lickingly delicious food.

Smokey Jake’s BBQ Restaurant is an unassuming eatery in Aitkin.
Smokey Jake's BBQ/Aitkin
With a central location just north of Mille Lacs Lake, it’s a perfect spot to grab some lunch or pick up dinner (or both) on the way up to the lake or cabin.
This place doesn’t try and overwhelm you with an overabundance of options: It knows what it does well, and it sticks to it.
Robert C Pruss Jr./Google
And what Smokey Jake’s does really well is barbecue.
Smokey Jake's BBQ/Aitkin
Like its perfectly smoked and slow-cooked racks of ribs. You can order a half rack, too, if you have a lighter appetite.

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Or try the heartachingly tender and juicy brisket, which is sliced thin and lain gently upon a brioche bun.
Smokey Jake's BBQ/Aitkin
You can also make it the cornerstone component of a grilled cheese on sourdough. Smokey Jake’s in fact, serves up a handful of grilled cheeses, ranging from classic (i.e., cheese) to bacon and jalapeño grilled cheese.
The brioche buns aren’t reserved just for brisket, though - you can also have them stuffed with smoky pulled pork or pulled chicken.
Smokey Jake's BBQ/Aitkin
The sides are nothing to throw shade at either - creamy mac and cheese or cole slaw, tangy baked beans, and sweet cornbread muffins are all there for the ordering.
Claira LaTour/Google
If you’re looking for something a little extra, try Smokey Jake’s cheese curds or loaded fries with pulled pork or brisket.
Patrick Robinson/Google

Smokey Jake’s isn’t just on your way up north – it’s a reason to go up north. (And if you already live in the area, lucky you!). Check out Smokey Jake’s website for its hours and to see a full menu. It’s actually the perfect stop for a meal break if you’re up on Mille Lacs or cruising the Lake Mille Lacs Scenic Byway.

Have you tried Smokey Jake’s barbecue? Let us know what you thought in the comments! What are some other hidden gems that make great meal stops on the way up north?

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Smokey Jake's BBQ Restaurant, 12 2nd St NW, Aitkin, MN 56431, USA