Apparently Big Jake's is under new ownership, so we decided to check it out today for lunch. Honestly, I wasn't all that impressed. I had the 3-meat plate, and for $19.99 I thought the portions were kinda small, to be honest. The sausage definitely wasn't house-made; it tasted like Hillshire Farm sausage to tell the truth. The pulled pork and brisket were OK. Strangely my brisket was moist and juicy but my wife's was dry. The sides were extremely disappointing - the potato salad and coleslaw were obviously Sysco or similar. The mac and cheese was pretty solid, beans were mediocre. Their sauce wasn't very good either, tasted like generic commercialized sauce. On a positive note, they did have Barq's Red Creme soda as a fountain option. I heard some folks talking about the pork chops on Thursday that are supposedly really good so maybe I'll come back to they them sometime. read more

Like someone posted previously, the woman taking orders, I believe one of the owners, acts as if you are taking up her time. Not friendly AT ALL. Food was ok. read more

This was my second visit after the change of ownership. Inside was clean. Parking can be challenging at times. The lady at counter acted put out to take my order. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich with two sides and asked for sausage to be added to sandwich. This of course just made her sigh and act even more put out. A few minutes later she informed me they were out of baked beans. The pulled pork sandwich was disgusting. It completely lacked any bbq/smoked type flavor. Tasted like an unseasoned oven baked pork roast that was old and had been reheated numerous times. My sides were potato salad and coleslaw. Both were nothing special. The sausage was terrible. Generic grocery store cheap sausage. Overall terrible food and service on this visit topped off with a $21 price tag. read more

Big Jake's BBQ is under new ownership. One Guy Spike has competed in competition BBQ. Kyle has experience in the catering business. It will still be awesome BBQ but look for some major improvements in the service, menu and overall appearance of this restaurant. Try the all new Jakes you will be impressed. read more

Such a little gem situated in the middle of nowhere! You'd almost have to be from this neck of the woods to know it's there. They only operate during the week for lunch and it's a small quaint space with a few tables situated inside. You order at the counter and they'll bring your food out type deal. A coworker told us about it one day so we as an office decided to do takeout soon after. I remember ordering a pulled pork sandwich and fries and the coworkers all ordered a variety of the platters and sandwiches. Our lunch table was mighty quiet that day as we all dug in and thoroughly enjoyed! The portions are plentiful, sauces are all good and homemade, service was super nice (Linda was so sweet!), and the prices weren't outrageous. I only wish we had taken pictures of all the yummy plates! Will definitely return and let everyone I know about Big Jake's. read more

It may not be the prettiest plating, but it'd the taste that counts! Came here randomly since I was off today wanted to give this place a try! This place did not disappoint. The brisket and ribs were my favorite! It's not to die for, but it's worth giving this place a try. The sausage and pulled pork were decent too; same goes to the beans and Coleslaw. I had a chance to talk to the owner Linda and she is the sweetest person I have talked to. In conclusion, give this place a try! read more

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Older building, business that is under new ownership but had always had good food. Very friendly, when I walked in I was immediately greeted. Ordered brisket plate with baked beans and potato salad. Instead or potato salad I got green beans but no big deal. I was not very impressed with the tenderness of the brisket or the flavor of the baked beans but I will give them another shot next time I pass through at lunch. Price seemed a little high for the portion but I have noticed that at several BBQ places lately so it is likely the very high price of meat nowadays. In my opinion not a place to go out of your way to visit but if you are in the area you should try it. read more

"Big Jake's" @ St Gabriel, La Good value. Sorta hybrid BBQ; SE Texas style meats, So. LA style sides, Alabama type sweet sauces. Meats perfectly cooked, not over seasoned. No Texas sides or condiments. Abysmal lack of inside signage confused me. Other diners were plant workers & farmers; very good indicator. Caveats: Don't sit under the big fans. Prepare to ask plenty questions ! Two meat plate & tea ~ $16, was plenty food for me. read more

Smokehouse 74 - the front of the restaurant - Barbeque Near Me - St. Gabriel, Louisiana

Best BBQ within 15 miles. Oh. Wait. It's the only BBQ within 15 miles. But, hey, it's still pretty good and a good option for lunch if you're in the area. I wouldn't go out of my way for it, but I will be back sometime when I want ribs. The ribs today were nice and tender - pulled off the bone easily, bit still had a good bite. Brisket was very tender and the sausage, brisket and ribs all had good flavor. I'm pretty sure the sausage is Manda sausage, which I find very good. Fries were hot and fresh, but a bit pale and soft (need another couple of minutes in the fryer). Potato salad and coleslaw were both good - standard recipe, nothing spectacular, but good choices. Four different sauces to choose from. The only one with any real distinction is the six shooter sauce. Hot and spicy mustard based sauce - very good. The others were a bit sweet, faint smoky flavor, but nothing special. Three stars - a good option for a quick lunch, but probably not the best you'll ever eat. read more

Smokehouse 74 - Brisket, sausage, potato salad, and coleslaw - all pretty good standard BBQ joint staples. - Barbeque Near Me - St. Gabriel, Louisiana

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After hearing me say, "I almost got BBQ and (insert restaurant here), but since BBQ in Tennessee is so good, I'm always scared to order it elsewhere.", my cousin suggested we go to Big Jakes. He said, "I don't know how it holds up to Tennessee, but it's definitely the best around here." As recommended, I ordered the rib plate and got cowboy fries and beans as sides. The beans were above average and the fried were fine. My ribs were so tender, I could just peel them off the bone. My aunt's were similarly tender, but my cousin's were really tough. This was obviously unfortunate from the culinary side of things, but also the practical side. All you have is a plastic fork and knife, and they were not getting the job done. As far as flavor, it comes nowhere close to Tennessee BBQ, but it was pretty good. I tried three of the sauces. I don't remember the names exactly, but Best Sauce Ever, I think, was my least favorite. The whiskey one was pretty good and the spicy one (Six something) was unique. I liked it best for my fries. All in all, not a totally bust. I enjoyed my food, but I'm used to having BBQ that is much superior. Also, the inconsistency with ribs is upsetting. read more

Smokehouse 74 - Barbeque Near Me - St. Gabriel, Louisiana

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Great food and friendly people! I like going to small independent places where they know me by name! Tell em' Shawn sent you! Brisket and sausage is my favorite! read more

Their barbecue is excellent love their brisket and a variety of different barbecue sauce that they have the offer. The brisket is juicy and tender A+ I highly recommend this place read more

Really good BBQ spot, I gave them an extra star considering the other options in the area. I come here about once a month and I've never been disappointed. They have a very good selection of different flavor BBQ sauces and great service. I usually stick with a sandwich or plate but If you feel like something different try the baked potato one day, it doesn't disappoint. read more

Without the advertisements all along the state highway, I would have never heard or found this place. In fact, I'd have driven past it without giving it a second thought! The environment was your usual BBQ place, and you'd order from the counter and hang out until they called your name. I ordered the half rack of ribs and it was really good. Moist, falling off the bone and good flavor without the sauce. With the sauce, I tried all of them and found them all to be good. I've had better elsewhere and I'd go back if I was in the area for a quick lunch. read more

Smokehouse 74 - Half rack ribs with toast and fries. - Barbeque Near Me - St. Gabriel, Louisiana

Well let me just say this I'm from out of state... California to be exact, and to be honest I didn't know what to expect when walking into Big Jake's BBQ. Right off the back as i stepped inside i smelt this overwhelming aroma and my tastebuds were enticed. I didn't know what to order at first because everything on the menu seemed amazing, but I have got to say their fries and brisket were like none other. A big bonus was having the cutest young lady yell my name when my order was ready, we had a smooth and easy conversation; though I live out of state I will gladly be back to eat here again. In conclusion, no matter what you get here you can expect a grade A meal, with a side of grade A hospitality. Definitely the Louisiana experience i was looking for, I hope y'all enjoy it as much as I did. read more

Food is great! But they have to do something with the smoke in the dining area Love the food but hate smelling like I'm the one who BBQed it. Would be a 4 or 5 star except for the smoke issue read more

The ribs were great! The chicken and all of the sides were also good. Highly recommend, nice people and fairly priced!

Great local, hole in the wall style, lunch spot. They're only open for lunch and well worth the drive. If you have a huge appetite, go on Thursdays for the giant pork chop. read more

Smokehouse 74 - Menu - Barbeque Near Me - St. Gabriel, Louisiana

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Been there, had the brisket, not impressed. I know really good brisket and this is not the place to try it. My lunch companion had the chicken and he stated it was dry. I'll go again one day and try the ribs. Staff was very friendly and the place was clean. read more

By far the best BBQ I have had. I have been bringing my family and customers to here for a few years now and everyone agrees that They have both fantastic BBQ & excellent service. I believe the reasons the food here is so well liked is that the focus is on the BBQ. Not an extravagant menu, but the food on their menu will be the best or rival the best BBQ places anywhere. The owners have always been there to greet us, made us feel like family and seem to put every effort into accommodating all of their customers. I highly recommend Big Jake's BBQ!! read more

Warning: you will smell like your food after exiting this joint. But who cares? Everyone loves bbq! My standard order is their quarter chicken (for like $6) and that itself is satisfying meal. I have tried the sausage platter and that's good too. Not a fan of the ribs though. Have had better ribs. It's a great place to go grab lunch during work esp if you work in St Gabriel. But make sure you're there by 11 am. Typically line gets long and food is first come first serve. Another plus, super sweet family who owns and run the place. read more

Just got finished eating the chicken plate and all I can say is wow! Definitely hit the spot for my bbq craving! It was 11:15 when I got there and the place was already filling up! The BBQ sauce is amazing ! read more

Had lunch here today for the first time.... I was very impressed. Friendly staff... The baked beans were very good.. Potato salad like grandma use to make.... The homemade BBQ sauce was delicious... I had the half chicken and yummy yummy.... Tender and juicy with the perfect amount of smoked flavor to it. I'm in this area once a week or so and I'll be sure to visit again! read more

I love the brisket, pork chop and the BBQ chicken. Cowboy beans are like non other. I Love the decor in the dining area. Great people and friendly atmosphere. We WILL be back. read more

A few of us at work love hitting this spot for lunch. Brisket is top notch, definitely my favorite so far. I can't wait to try the ribs. The beans have a bit of a smoke flavor to them, which is different and a bit of a turn off for me, but they were good none the less. Mac is good, slaw is good, but I'll go back for the brisket. The owner can be a bit gruff (according to a fellow employee), but the rest of the staff has been very pleasant. I'll be recommending this place to others here at work and I'll continue to be a customer as long as the quality continues. read more

Amazing food great atmosphere and service. I had the pulled pork and ribs. Great all around and I recommend the twice baked potato salad. I will definitely be back and I only wish they were open for weekends and dinner. read more

This place was awesome! Good BBQ atmosphere, friendly service, and very CLEAN! I highly recommend this spot. My uncle had the ribs which were cooked perfectly, and I had pulled pork sandwich. I want to go back just to verify this place is that good... read more

My favorite place to get smoked chicken. Food portions are generous, and service is quick and friendly. Husband LOVES their ribs and chopped brisket. read more

The older man behind the counter, must think he is funny. He is not! Went there for lunch and after ordering and paying the lady behind the counter, went to get drink order. The rude older man, found out my husband could not hear very well. He commenced to start making fun of him. Put his hands to his ears, and acted like he couldn't hear. Put his hands to his mouth and acted like he was shouting. By this time we were getting frustrated. But was that enough for him no. He started moving his hands like he was using sign language. Told him he did not use sign language, but did that stop him,no. My husband was imbarressed and insulted told him to go sit down I'll get the drinks. If it wasn't for the fact that we had already payed, would have walked out. Don't know if he was hitting the sauce that day, but he acted worse than a 5 year old. Will never waste my money on this establishment again. He needs to grow up and act like the older man he is and not insult people that have a handicap. By the way the ribs were not that good and none of sauces were worth eating. But that may be because by the time we ate we had both lost our appetites. read more

Really solid Barbecue spot. I had a pulled pork sandwich and the meat was really good. Smokey, tender, moist, and delicious. I have to say however, the sauce that came on the sandwich was some of the worst I've had. It tasted luke pure molasses and had no smokiness or bite at all. They had several other varieties of sauce though, so next time ill ask them to hold the sauce and ill try one of the others. You will leave smelling like a barbecue restaurant, but hey, thats part of the point. Regardless, this is probably the best BBQ place I've found in the BR area. read more

Wonderful BBQ. Hoss Cartwright pork chop is insane.brisket is awesome.I am a fan of the smokey atmosphere.

Great potato salad and baked beans! Ribs are always on point! Excellent customer service! Great selection of sauces and menu items.

Being from Memphis I am very picky on my BBQ and I have been told all kinds of places that have great BBQ and they have all disappointed me, until I walked in to Big Jakes. The best smoked chicken I have ever had, pulled pork that is as good or better than any I have had in Memphis, and brisket that is tender and juicy. The homemade BBQ sauce that he makes is delicious and has everything you can want in a BBQ sauce. Great environment and extremely nice staff. The owner even talked with me about his BBQ experience and seemed like one of the nicest individuals you could ask for when you begin to stuff your face on good ol' fashioned BBQ. read more

I came here for my lunch with co-workers for the first time a few weeks ago and got the brisket, baked beans and cowboy fries. The fries were seasoned really good and hot and a huge portion size! The brisket was very tender and the assortment of BBQ sauces is very good to have for dipping. I have brought my wife to Big Jakes 2 times since my first visit and every time we come we enjoy the rustic atmosphere, Very Friendly service, and amazing food. I hope to continue coming to Big Jakes because it is defiantly the best BBQ in the area and I will drive 20 minutes every time to go get me some Big Jakes! read more

I have been going to Big Jake's for years and could eat the pulled pork sandwich everyday. My co-workers love it too. Great place to get some killer BBQ!!! Everything on the menu is yummy!!! read more

One and Done! Really disappointing...... but here goes: I went here at lunch for the first time today. Based on the reviews I had seen - I thought I had found something closer to Pville that would rival the BBQ in Port Allen and Texas. Walk to the Counter to Order - the music comes on. The Music is so loud the Cashier and I can't even hear each other. I swear it took everything in my being to keep from asking if the music could be turned down. It was like a Bar Room. So I'm looking at the Menu and the most prominent thing on the Menu is a Sign that reads: 1 Refill Per Customer So a 2.25 Drink with one Refill. Whenever you see a sign like that in a store - know FOR SURE that you are about to order from a "Contrary" Business Owner. For Goodness Sake........ Soda cost cents per ounce and the Establishment is going to make a big deal out of it? The cup often costs more than what's in it. I'm sure the food is going to be good though because behind the counter is a Chef. Yes he must be a Professionally Trained Chef. How do I know? Because he's wearing a Chef Coat, Silly. So he's either a Real Chef or he's standing out front making sure nobody gets more than 1 refill. Note to Owner - wearing a Chef's Coat in a BBQ place makes you look like a Complete Tool. So I order the Food. (2) 2 Meat Plates (Brisket/Sausage) with Loaded Potato Salad and Mac N Cheese. Potato Salad was served cold and good. Brisket was also Cold - but not so good. Now I can't say I've EVER received Cold Brisket before - but now I have. I thought it might have been a mistake so I asked my eating companion and they said their brisket was cold as well. Sausage was OK Mac N Cheese was below average as well. I felt like the Food was quite flavorless. The brisket tasted like it had perhaps been boiled and then sliced. This establishment seemed to rely on their sauces to give the meat flavor. If one was to plop this restaurant down in Houston - it would be out of business in six months. Kudos to the "Chef", however, for finding a gullible clientele. Needless to say........ I'm done here. read more

These five stars don't scratch the surface on how amazing this restaurant is! The food is absolutely AMAZING! It's fairly cheap and the hospitality is booming. The sweet lady inside is just as sweet as she can be. We visisted in a big group of college kids & we were all helped fast and efficiently. Definitely would come back. Was a great choice for an amazing experience read more

Legit, legit BBQ. They make their own sauces and they're awesome. Great atmosphere with SRV DVD's playing, I moved back to L.A. but I still miss coming to this place for lunch. It's very conveniently located near the Honeywell plant where I used to work. It dosen't really need any reviews since everybody in the area knows how awesome it is. L.A. has a few BBQ places which are a complete joke compared to this place, Brisket and the specials they have on Thursday. You will smell like smoke when you walk out of this place so everybody will know that you had BBQ for lunch. read more

Best ribs you will ever eat!! If I'm in Baton Rouge area we make a special trip for Big Jake's ribs. Can't beat the atmosphere either. Clean, friendly staff, and out of this work BBQ! Getting hungry thinking about it. Love this place! read more

Big Jakes is some of the best barbecue that I have ever tasted. I travel all over North America for work, and I eat barbecue as often as possible. The meat at Big Jakes is top notch compared to the rest of the places across the USA. The brisket is moist, and the pulled pork melts in your mouth. For a real treat stop in and get the Thusday special known as the Hoss Cartwrigjt it's the biggest pork chop that you'll ever see and boy is it tasty. I travel to St Gabriel for work and stop in at Big Jakes at least twice a week when I'm in town. If your looking for top notch barbecue - Dave from Columbus read more