I was there yesterday for lunch with a group of 5 ladies. The food was excellent but our waitress, Jill, was a b*****! We were not a difficult table and she was very short, dropped a handful of dishes on a table nearby as she huffed away when was asked about a dessert we had requested when our meal was finished. She may have just been having a bad day but it was very unprofessional behavior. read more

We had a reservation on a Sunday which was good because it was hopping. Upon checking in, we asked for a patio table. It was a beautiful night for outdoor seating. I ordered the Wisconsin Skewer combo which included skewers of veggies (pepper, zucchini, onion) and meats of shrimp, steak, and chicken. It comes to the table nicely displayed with three skewers hanging from a hook. The food was a little cold but good flavored. Our table started with the dry rubbed wings (6 wings) which had a nice smoked flavor. Wish they would have come out a little hotter as well. Service was a bit mixed. Started off great then sort of disappeared at times. Overall it was a good experience. Loved the patio seating! read more

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My friend and I ate here for the first time Monday night. The patio was terrific; despite it being breezy, the umbrellas were up to provide shade from the sunny skies, and we very much enjoyed the lake view. We had an excellent server, but even though there seemed to be no staffing shortage among servers, we wondered if perhaps there was in the kitchen, as it took longer than we'd expected to get our meals. I had the Sloppy Joe sandwich ($14), and thought that the portion of meat was skimpy, and was surprised no side of any kind came with it; I do like zucchini fries, so ordered a side for $5, and received only 8 pieces. The food was ok, but I thought overpriced for the portion size. My friend got a burger made to order with her favorite toppings, and ordered a side of crispy tots. Her half pound burger was huge, and she got a mountain of tots! She took half of hers home; I ate mine but left half the bun as I don't care for brioche buns, but I was actually still rather hungry. We both agreed she got the far better deal! While the view and patio seating were enjoyable, not sure I'd go back again. read more

Great little place. Good service and food and the view from the deck was picture perfect. read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

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Loved the patio & lake views - gorgeous! Our waitress was great. Very attentive & gave us lots of tips & opinions. We really liked the Brussels sprout appetizer... SO GOOD. highly recommend trying that! read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - Cheese curds - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

Hello...well to start with it was a verrry hot day...and the walk from the parking lot was hard. We were put into a tight corner, our first time there and being large people (also seniors with a cane)...we could not move It was soooo noisy not having any carpet. Our server was polite and being young we guessed he did his best We ordered. I had the Texes Twinkies...very bad just a drop of filling and after a bite tears were in my eyes. You could snap the bacon wrapped around the peppers. I had to push them away and ordered Mac n cheese to kill the heat! Ordered coffee but received it towards the end of the visit. Exstreamly bitter. There was pizza with thick white gummy cheese and half done crust. Nope..we will not be back. Was not for us. read more

First time here. Came with a friend for lunch on a Thursday. There's a large indoor seating area with a big bar. Video poker games line one of the walls (not a fan). Outside, there's a spacious patio that overlooks the lake, with plenty of umbrellas for shade. It was a beautiful day, so we grabbed a table outside. Our server greeted us right away, brought waters, and took our drink order. We weren't in a hurry, and she gave us plenty of time, checking back occasionally without making us feel rushed. To start, we ordered the Texas Twinkies, their version of a stuffed, deep-fried jalapeño pepper. These came filled with cream cheese, pepper jack, and brisket, all wrapped in bacon. We were a little concerned about the heat, but they were fantastic. Honestly, the best jalapeño poppers I've ever had. For mains, I ordered the Mushroom Onion Swiss Burger, which I upgraded to the pretzel roll. My friend had the Rice Bowl. Both came out quickly, hot, and in good portions. The burger was good, but not great. Instead of medium-rare, it was cooked to medium. Not a huge deal, but the bigger disappointment was that while the toppings were excellent, the meat itself lacked flavor. The side of homemade chips was warm and tasty. The Rice Bowl was also good, but again, not exceptional. Overall, a decent experience. Next time, I'd skip the burger and try some of their smoked meats instead. The service throughout was excellent (thanks, Jill!). read more

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We had an errand to do near by and were looking for someplace to eat. Had seen this place from the water when we had fished in the summer. We are so glad we stopped for a bite to eat. The food was amazing and we have already made plans to return. We enjoyed our smoked bloodies and amaretto sour with a splash of OJ suggested by our waitress. I had the pulled pork bowl. And I will have it again when I return. My husband had the brisket and said it was delicious. The place has some real character and views of the lake. Looking forward to some summer nights on their outdoor patio. We could tell how passionate the workers were about the food and making sure we were taken care of. Definitely a place that will be in our eating out rotation. read more

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I visited Smoke on the Water 7/31/2026 to check out their Friday fish offerings. I'd been there previously and noted that they had/served haddock which is somewhat of a challenge to find here in the WI area, most places offer cod. I'd lived in Upstate NY where haddock was the prevalent offering for Friday fish frys and have missed that. I was dining solo so I sat at the bar, the place was literally PACKED with patrons at tables as well as all along the bar. I had to wait a bit for my service but that was to be expected given the crowd there......it was also raining outside so that may have been a somewhat influential factor as to the size of the crowd there. I ordered an Espresso Martini and then decided to go with their haddock fish tacos. My server/bartender was a nice young lady named Morgan and she was very good and attentive througout my time there. The Martini was good flavor wise but the floating coffee beans were as bland and chewy as what I'd think one would get by carving a few chunks out of a truck tire............NO FLAVOR OR CRUNCH AT ALL!!!! Yes, I do "eat" the coffee beans.........if they're edible and these were HORRIBLE. The tacos arrived WITHOUT the noted siracha mayo dressing stated in the menu on the cabbage, diced tomato, diced onion slaw and cilantro greens for dressing. VERY DRY without that element, I mentiond it to my server/bartender and she promptly brought me a small condiment container of the dressing which was a definite boost to the tacos. The portion size was three tacos with soft corn tortilla wraps which fell apart quick quickly, perhaps they were over steamed/cooked? The haddock pieces were breaded and fried and were "decent" in flavor and proper cooking, fish was flaky and not dried out/overcooked or undercooked but I felt that the amount of fish offered was somewhat skimpy. I even offered in my comments made via the QR code at my seat that perhaps they folks from Smoke should visit Mugshotz in Pewaukee for an example of what I consider a SUPERB fish taco (it's cod, I get it blackened with added avocado and no tortillas). I also ordered clam chowder but only tasted it and brought the remainder home to finish later. It was "ok" thick and flavorful. I use the clam chowder from Boozhags as my benchmark of a very good clam chowder here in Lake Country.............Smoke's clam chowder did NOT beat Boozhags. In all fairness and honesty, I WILL go back and try the haddock either baked/broiled or fried and post a review after that experience. read more

We had a great time at Smoke on the Water BBQ. We recommend. The brisket salad was great.

This place is absolutely incredible. We went in without a reservation with 2 people and we were seated immediately. We had a great view of the lake from the inside. They have a beautiful outside seating area. I had a blue Hawaiian and it was only $9. Not bad at all. Our waitress was terrific. Extremely friendly and attentive. We ordered the brisket and it was phenomenal. Honestly some of the best that we've ever had. It literally melts in your mouth and isn't fatty at all. We had the Mac and cheese and also the BBQ beans and they were so delicious. My fiance got the maple bacon baby potatoes and let me tell you...soooo good! They have an all you can eat ribs special on Thursdays for 19.99. We will be back for sure. I can't give enough praise. You must try it! Incredible food, incredible prices and incredible service. They have an extensive menu selection. One of our new favorite places. We travel over an hour to eat here and I tell you...it is worth the drive! read more

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Lake view is lovely, but the food was so disappointing. Brisket was extremely dry. Beans oddly flavored. BBQ sauce was not good. Tater tots were under done, odd. Server was nice. read more

Awesome view and location right on the lake, excited to come back when the weather is not freezing :) Everyone in the group was happy with their orders. I enjoyed the Santa Fe salad (one of the veg options) - was tasty but wish it had some more protein/beans and could be more filling for an entree. The waiter was super friendly and accommodating for dietary needs of our group (gluten free/veg) read more

The service was great. Very fast and moved through the restaurant with a purpose. The views are great both inside and outside. You can't go wrong here. The food can be hit or miss. Most items I've had here were great, but on my last trip I had their Brisket. I don't know what cut of meat I got, but it was not like any brisket I've ever had before at any restaurant. The flavor was ok, but the texture of the beef was not brisket. read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - Brisket Plate - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

Great service and amazing friday fish fry. I've had their nachos before too, which were also good. But this is going to have to be my new fish fry spot! Cole slaw and potato pancakes were both delicious read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - View from inside - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

Beautiful views overlooking the lake. The back deck is the perfect spot to perch next to the lake and enjoy a meal. A great breeze. Just bring your sunglasses as there isn't always a ton of shade. Reservations are available, but to be honest they seem like a way to show your interest. The table may not be available when you arrived. We waited 15 minutes after arriving to be seated. And the next reservation came in and had to do the same. Seems to be more of a walk in culture and they don't actively manage against the reservations. Menu is of course focused on meats. Had the brisket salad and the brisket was extremely smoky, almost too smoky. The pulled pork and chicken were much better. Really enjoyed the zucchini fries that are served as a side and the sriracha barbecue sauce. Service was great, very attentive and welcoming. read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - Smoked Bloody Mary - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

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This is an easy five star rating for me in every way! This is the perfect place to go to for the best food, the best service, the best view, and the best prices, hands down! This place is literally perfect! read more

Always sit outside (weather permitting) when I come! Food is delicious. Though I do prefer brisket over ribs as last time they were a bit dry and hard. Service is great. Ambiance is fun when there's a sports game. Location is beautiful! read more

The wings, beans and brisket had the overwhelming taste of lighter fluid. Beyond awful

Smoke on the Water, the atmosphere and the amazing deck in the summer. If you want great food and sit and enjoy the lake this is the place can't be beat. read more

Stopped in on a rainy day an early dinner and was quite impressed with the smoked entrees. The service was prompt with a good variety of draft beers. The view of Okauchee lake is great with a large deck for warmer days outside as well. Our orders included the pulled chicken and the briscuit and were very pleased with both selections. read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - Smoked Pulled Chicken - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

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Delicious food and great place to watch sports. Live the deck in the summer too! Best home made chips!

Soo good!! The pulled pork bbq sandwich and the mother of all burgers were both big hits! Our sides - sweet potato fries and tater tots were also very good. They were both perfectly crunchy. The view of the lake was a nice addition! Bigger inside than I was expecting, and the outdoor patio would be perfect for summer. read more

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It was Great service, excellent food, awesome atmosphere. It was a great night. They didn't rush us even though they were clearly busy

Just had a carry out order. Beef brisket, potato salad, Brussels sprouts. Bad, bad,bad. Brisket was dry as a desert, potato salad serving size was like a shot glass, Brussels sprouts were burnt and crushed. Had a flourless cake for dessert that cost $8.00 that was about the size of my index finger. Run far, far away from this dump!! read more

Food was ok, service was fine. We had reservations for a table outside but when we arrived they said they couldn't accommodate our group outside. Inside was pretty loud. read more

Very much enjoyed my meal here! We arrived right when it opened and it was already packed. We were served quickly. The food was all good - my family especially loved the Jalapeño Poppers. Definitely would be back on a nice sunny afternoon after a day of boating! read more

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Awesome location, with a nice menu. Servers were very pleasant. Food was good. The interior is casual and comfortable. We really looked forward to coming here! We prefer to support local businesses. Unfortunately, they politicized their business by promoting a blow out party for the First Felon's inauguration. Definitely a turn off for those who remember January 6th, etc. read more

stopped in excited to try some of their smoked meats & enjoy their beautiful patio!! was happy to be able to get a prime spot at 4:30 -- you probably have to get there this early to guarantee an outdoor spot! waitress was extremely kind but you could tell very busy with the whole patio area. we both enjoyed our brisket sandwich & pulled pork plate, but felt the portion sizes of meat were a bit small. would definitely come back for drinks and the view of the water! read more

Smoke on the Water BBQ - brisket melt with Brussels sprouts - Barbeque Near Me - Okauchee, Wisconsin

The smoked meats were excellent and I loved their siracha-que bbq sauce! I was not sure I was gonna like it but it was great and not too spicy. The service was mediocre at best though which I was not expecting. read more

From the check in desk to check out at the end, service has been superb. We're probably there at least once a week, sometimes more. The cheese curds, Friday night Clam Chowder and bread pudding are the highlights! read more

The place was packed tonight! Some people were a little frustrated with how long it took to get drinks, but they were down a bartender and the entire staff was working their butts off. The staff wasn't standing around clueless, they were sweating and working hard! Regardless, the food and service was perfect. Will be back PS. Thanks Craig! -basil haidyn on the rocks read more

Great vibes and drinks! Decent portions, Mac and cheese was a fave. Would love to come back and sit outside.

My wife and I stumbled on this place and we were so glad we did. The food was on point. Everything we had was incredibly delicious, with nice sized portions. We had the stuffed peppers and two variations of their mac and cheese. Fantastic! The ambience was great as well. We were there in the summer and were lucky enough to get a seat on the deck overlooking the lake. Perfect for date night. Service was attentive and helped with navigating the menu, which was also well put together. Obviously geared towards BBQ, but there are some other options for those that may not prefer BBQ. We will definitely be back. read more

We recently booked the downstairs room (which is an amazing space) for a celebration of life for my aunt. I was coordinating this from AZ so it made this a little complicated, but Joe and his staff were AMAZING. They went out of their way to simplify the process, the event staff were a pleasure to deal with and the food was excellent. I can't say enough about this place, and will be back whenever we are in the area. read more

Great view and food! Out of everything our group ordered, we enjoyed the brisket pizza and wings! Bloody Mary's were also good and uncomplicated! read more

I've been back several times over the last year but recently ventured here for Friday Fish Fry. Disappointed based on previous experience. We were seated promptly and service was pretty good. Can't say the same about the food. Our table of four ordered Perch, Haddock fish fry's and the pan seared walleye. The fried fish was decent, fries were cold-and for $22 they served it in a plastic basket. (Did I mention we ate inside at dinner time?)The walleye came out 10 min after other entrees and barely edible. Overcooked and smothered with some type of sauce/goop that was supposed to be "seasoned with fresh garlic and Cajun spices." Rice-also overcooked paste and carrots..yes overcooked. Another previous stop I ordered the burnt ends appetizer. They were delicious at one time, but last order it was a bowl full of shredded meat in barbecue sauce. Good place for drinks at the bar and catch a game or bingo night in the winter but will stick to drinks only until perhaps they do a menu refresh. read more

We had a great dinner at smoke on the water! The view was amazing, and although the outdoor bar wasn't open I'd love to come back if I'm ever in the area and spend some time there. The food was great! We started with the cheese curds and the zucchini fries, both delicious. I had the new skewers and loved them. I got the combo and of the 3 I would have left the beef out, the shrimp and chicken were much better and their respective sauces as well. I loved the smoked margarita as well and convinced everyone else at my table to try it. Our server Lily was also great and very attentive! Overall we had an amazing experience and would definitely recommend. read more

Best BBQ in the Milwaukee area. Texas Twinkies are superb! I will keep coming back. Keep up the awesomeness .

We went here for lunch and sat on the deck, overlooking a beautiful view of the lake. I had a brisket sandwich with their pub chips. The sandwich was not very large, but the brisket was delicious and tender. The chips were slightly thicker than kettle chips and deep fried. I finished mine and then helped my wife with hers; very good. My wife enjoyed her salad. I came away very pleased and will be looking to go back to try some other menu items. The waitress was very pleasant and attentive. read more

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