First time checking the new location and was pleasantly surprised. Now getting deeper in the heart of Oxnard ya know parking sucks everywhere and the new location has a small shared parking lot so I was very happy to pull in and have a spot right off the bat. The line was quick the wait was fair considering the number of online orders they were getting as well. The beauty of Smoking Jays is the consistency every time you visit and this stop was just the same. I will say one of my favorite things was the fact that the serving sizes are a bit smaller than before, still a great serving for the cost bit less guilt of overeating just for the sake of it. read more

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We used to get Smokin Jays during Covid from their back yard...still some pretty great food! The chicken tenders are huge, crunchy, saucy and so yummy. The brisket was a tad dry, but still decent. Mac salad and Mac & cheese were great and good fries as long as you eat them hot. Overall it hit the spot! We got there around 2:30 after a beach morning with the kids and the place filled up right after we got there. A 3pm rush was impressive! Lol read more

What an absolute treat it was trying this place! The menu is a bit intimidating as there's many food options such as chicken sandwiches, burgers and BBQ plates. This is one of the best priced chicken sandwich I've ever had! The crunch from the breading was perfect while the inside was incredibly juicy. In the photo, I couldn't hold it properly because of how big it was; only finished half of it. My partner tried the "Getting Laid in Hawaii," burger (not pictured) and he really enjoyed it. My only issue is the dry rub I chose wasn't very flavorful, but will have to check out the other flavors when I visit CA again. I visited the Harbor location, but now they have moved to 430 W. Woolley Rd, when writing my review. I recommend following their instagram page (smokin_jays_805) for current updates! Definitely a must try! read more

we have been here a few times & this was definitely the best visit. We always order to go & today we ordered the tri trip & hot link plate & the tri trip & chicken plate and also the nashville chicken loaded fries. In the past the nashville loaded fries were soggy but this time the sauce they added on the side of the container so the fries stayed crispy! read more

AWESOME! I googled BBQ restaurants when I was here in Ventura and Smokin Jays came up. I ordered, to go, the 1/2 pound of Brisket (yes my favorite) and a 1/4 pound of Tri-Tip. The Brisket was one of the best ever, a fist pump when I took the first bite. So Juicy, soft and great flavor. The Tri-Tip had the same flavor. This Brisket is by far is one of the best I have had. I will be keeping this on my radar when in Ventura, for sure! Well I went back the next day and got a 1/2 lb. of brisket again and the baby back ribs. I'm hooked! So So good!! Wish I was staying in town for a 3rd night. read more

We had an hour to kill in Oxnard and found this awesome restaurant! The BBQ and the sides were delicious, and the staff were super nice and friendly! They look like they have a great coffee, breakfast set up as well! We will definitely go back next time we're in Oxnard! read more

Don't come here if you are on a diet Everything is awesome! No complaints! They know what they are doing here! Also they play excellent music! Food came out in a timely manner! The BBQ, smash burgers, shakes, fries and even the ranch was bomb. read more

Best brisket sandwich anywhere! Friendly staff & great food. I always want to try something different but just can't pass up the tender,delicious brisket. read more

Walked in for the first time and the owner was extremely nice and accommodating. Gave us a full tour of the menus and some samples of other items we didn't order. Everything we had was amazing. Super high quality food with a very home cooked feel. Had the tri tip and it was perfectly smoked and seasoned with no need for Bbq sauce. Add the Bbq sauce and forget about it. This is a hidden gem is next level and we will definitely be back. My new favorite spot. read more

Hear, hear fellow 805ers, it's time to crown the best bbq in Ventura County (well to me that is). I give you Smokin Jays who makes the best damn brisket I have ever tasted. It's so juicy, flavorful, and fatty that every bite is heaven in your mouth. Seriously my mouth is watering just thinking about it right now. And don't forget their Tri Tip, that's probably one of the best I've tried also. But the brisket, it just soooo good! Other dishes I got was the vegan chicken sandwich for my wife which she said was delicious. I made her cross the line to the carnivore side to try the brisket and she too was blown away. Did I mention the brisket is amazing? If you ever come here don't be afraid if there is a long line. It goes fast and they get the food out to you quickly. Prices are fair for how good the food is. Not much seating inside so take your meal to go for the most part. But I tell you, it's all worth it for the brisket!! read more

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5/5 experience! From the get go staff was really nice! Food was hot and fresh and very flavorful. He brought out a sample of the Nashville hot chicken to try and it was so good. Brisket sandwich and Nashville hot chicken sandwich are top tier. Fried pickles and Mac n cheese are also top tier! Traveled from New Mexico and was recommended this from a local and glad we stopped in! Will def be coming back to the nard for this! read more

Smokin Jays - Nashville hot chicken sandwich - Barbeque Near Me - Oxnard, California

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Had the BBQ tri-tip sando and it was incredible! The meat was tender, juicy, and full of smoky flavor, and the sauce tied it all together perfectly. Bread was fresh and held up great without getting soggy. Customer service was amaaaazing -- Cristi was awesome, super friendly, and made the experience even better. Can't wait to come back! read more

Wasn't a huge fan of the tri tip combo that I got. The meat was dry and it lacked flavor. The other things I wanted to order they were out of because of an Alfredo special they were featuring. Bummed about that to say the least. The staff seemed annoyed by my questions even though it was my first time (there was no one behind me so I don't get it). I could see staff smoking vapes and the smoke blowing into the BOH which was a turn off for me. One thing I'll say that's a major bonus is they feature the cakes from Cheesecake Plugg from IG. Such creative, flavorful mini cheesecakes in a perfectly presented clamshell box. I'll keep coming back for those. I'll have to try their food again when I build up the bravery. read more

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This place is worth alllll the hype, had them a couple times and always delicious richness, one time they did forget my taco and got a little attitudey about it but it's all good I imagine they sometimes deal w that stuff, im still a huge fan! Good sauce the fries plain or hooked up are the business the Nashville chicken is sooo good, smash burgers delish this time we got the brisket and tri tip sandwiches, so good I always get too full so worth it! Can get pricey but that's how it is now, good service and cool vibes read more

Smokin Jays - Brisket sandwich - Barbeque Near Me - Oxnard, California

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Jack 'd chicken fries with bitchassness heat is exactly what the sause is! The chicken sando amazing and I think it's HUGE. Anything flavored with bitchassness is a win for me. Chicken tenders yum, macaroni salad is my favorite only problem is it comes in a tiny container......it's so good I need more .The brisket melts in your mouth. What are you looking at reviews for get up go....its open and worth every bite. See you there. read more

Overall rating: 3.5 This is my first time trying Smockin Jays at this location and it's still a pretty solid option. They have a ton of menu items so you'll find something for everyone. We got some bbq plates, Jack'd fries, and seasonal items. The meats were fine. Nothing bad but also nothing special. The mac salad and baked beans that come with the bbq plates were just okay. The Jack'd fries were really good. Probably my favorite meal option. I am a fries girl and they have really good fries. The sauce and chicken on them were bomb too. So def give those a try. We also tried the seasonal chili cheese dog which was also really good. I'd order it again whenever it's on the menu. So overall, they have good food. Some dishes are more stellar than others for sure. I was disappointed with 2 major things. 1) We ordered a mac and cheese, was charged for it, and it was not included in our order. We were so embarrassed because it was for a friend's meal. So annoying! And 2) they don't have a line to call in your order. We had a large-ish order and when I called the number listed I got no answer. It seemed like it was someone's cell phone number honestly. So it was a bit inconvenient. I personally didn't go to the restaurant as my husband went for me so I can't speak to the location or ambience. But I'll likely go back at some point. They're very active on social media (IG) so it's good to check it out for updated menus of the day and their professional food photos. read more

It was a slow day so service was quick and the cashier was friendly. I enjoyed the location of it because we were able to walk around as we waited for our food The best thing that I got was the dank nugs with the hot honey sauce and OMG - I needed more ASAP! The pulled pork was good , the tritip was chewy, and the fries were thick. Overall...I went believing the hype and honestly, I think I let everyone psych me up about and maybe that's why I left wanting more. ‍ read more

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"Hands down the best ribs I've ever tasted! In SoCal area so far...The meat was so tender and flavorful, it practically fell off the bone. The BBQ sauce was a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, complementing the smoky flavor of the ribs beautifully. The portion sizes were generous, and the sides were just as delicious - the coleslaw was fresh and crisp, and the baked beans were savory and satisfying. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff who provided top-notch service. I can't wait to go back and indulge in more of their mouthwatering ribs. A must-visit for any BBQ lover!" Make sure you sub out the macaroni salad... not a fan, but the ribs, and beans slaps frfr!!! read more

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Great brisket sando and fries. Best I've had in years. Tons on brisket on it. 2nd time going and Planning on going back next time in Oxnard.

I'd never eaten at a true bbq restaurant before my experience here, the meat and sides were all very good and staff was friendly and the place has a fun casual vibe and I liked all the ratatouille merch on display read more

Back here for more goodness. Today we tried the tri-tip and brisket chilly on a sourdough bread bowl ...PERFECT for the rainy and gloomy day. So worth it! Also tried the tri-tip sando with their bbq sauce and slaw, comes with fries. Good portion, tasted great. We also got chicken nuggets and fries for the kids..good portion so younger that dont eat much can share. This spot never disappoints and the staff is great. The lady taking our order is always helpful and friendly. read more

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I'm a respectful person but honestly the lady cashier is a straight bitch she's rude AF every time i go she's mad or looks miserable and isn't welcoming, whoever hired her should fire her fr...other than that the food is okay only ate there 3 times and only 1 of those times the food was mid. read more

Food was really good. Fun vibe. Friendly staff. Huge variety. I am my very picky friends liked it very much. A little noisy. I recommend take out. read more

Great Texas BBQ spot all around. The meats were great (burnt ends were a bit fatty). The spicy bbq sauce was a great addition too. The sides (corn bread, Mac n cheese, beans) were great too read more

Went in yesterday, needed my bbq fix.customer was good the cooks in the back even said hello. Ordered the brisket sandwich and brisket fries. Food was on point like always. The ambiance felt chill in there. read more

When I visit my sister in Green Bay to dog sit this is the one restaurant I put on my list as a must do for a delicious easy meal. Delicious 5 stars! read more

This spot has been a go-to for years (including their previous location before the move). The customer service has yet to disappoint. They always make me feel welcome no matter when I pop in for a bite. While the BBQ is the highlight for most everyone, the sides are equally amazing. The mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned--definitely a standout. With other great options like the fried pretzel (which is a real showstopper), fried pickles, not to mention the delicious and creative desserts on the menu. The meal is always satisfying. It's clear they put care into every dish, making it a spot I keep coming back to. read more

Don't know where to begin but I'm glad it ended. That seems like the best way to describe the experience. From the confusing, overpriced, and overwhelming menu to the horrific tasting food. Ordered burnt ends, half which tasted like and had the consistency of beef jerky and other half which was decent. I also ordered the brisket plate, where the brisket disintegrates into cat food from its dryness and tastes horrible. The fries tastes like fried paper mache. The Mac and cheese tasted like playdough. On top of that a worker was texting in the back and then didn't wash their hands. I had MUCH higher expectations for a place that charges so much for small quantities. I'd never go there again. Quality went down significantly since they actually opened a spot. read more

The food is consistently delicious! We've had the tri tip,chicken, tri tip fries &burnt ends & omg all were yummy! The owner even came out to the dining area to ask how everything was tasting read more

I'm completely obsessed with this place. It makes all my fat girl dreams and cravings come true! The food is everything and more. My little family loves eating here. We always get the nugs that my little one swears are better than Mickey ds. Never last long enough for a picture. This is my husbands goto Everytime he gets off the boat from work! Best bbq I've had in a while and I don't mind paying alittle more for it because it never disappoints! I love the vibe I get everytime I walk in. It's so chill yet busy because the food is amazing! Everyone is always so nice and helpful with all my questions when I want to try something new! read more

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This place has some Bomb food and made fresh and customer service is is danm good! My wife got the chicken tenders which were really meatity and I got the smash burgers which were U can't go wrong with anything read more

Tri tip was delicious! First timer here and i must say i will be a repeat customer! The kool aid has the perfect 40/60 kool aid sugar mix meanwhile the Tri tip was nice and juicy! The bbq sauce added even more flavor. Received my order fast and service was friendly the vibes and ambiance are amazing definitely worth the price for well cooked meals KEITH LEE WYA! read more

Smokin Jays - Barbeque Near Me - Oxnard, California

Service: It was okay. The cashier didn't look like she wanted to be there though. Ambiance: Nice and cool vibe. But, the environment felt so sticky where you don't want to sit and dine in the restaurant. They should clean the tables and floors more often. Food: Very disappointed. Definitely not barbecue, overpriced, and this is the place people are hyping about? It looks good, but does not taste good at all. No smoke flavor, extremely dry, and barbecue sauce was basically a flat cumin taste. This was more like oven cooked type of food and not a barbecued grilled smoked food type of restaurant. Brisket was super dry and bland! Burnt ends: Dry meat and messy sandwich! You will need some water. This is definitely not from the brisket cut. Don't be fooled, this tasted pretty much like lean chuck roast. The best thing about the food was the fries, which I gave it a 2 Stars. Very disappointed and was hoping to have maybe found a spot where I can get actual barbecue. This is not a barbecue restaurant, the only barbecue thing about it was the sauce. For the people who are raving about this restaurant, stop lying. Highway robbery at its finest. read more

Amazing food if you haven't gone in and tried the bbq or the smash burgers you're missing out always so flavorful and the staff is amazing always a must stop read more

Smokin Jays - Smoked meatloaf plate - Barbeque Near Me - Oxnard, California

Annnnnd new Best BBQ spot in Ventura County!!!!! Geeez I am beyond pleased and impressed. We travel all over the country and had Texas, Tennessee, and St Louis, this damn place is among them with taste, texture, and just perfection. My husband surprised us with this today and we literally had no conversations lmao as a parent that is RARE!!!!! Food-Amazing!!! Will return and come weekly due to the quality and tenderness of their food. Throw a dart at the menu and everything HITS!!! All amazing Service- incredible, attentive, and very helpful for first timers according to my hubby and son. Ambiance-homey, inviting and the owner was there speaking to all patrons and giving them ideas for their next orders which is just awesome cos we need that home town feeling. I will tell the world and be a recruiter for this place lmao from now on read more

Smokin Jays - Trip tip and chicken - Barbeque Near Me - Oxnard, California

The brisket was melt in you're mouth experience. Definitely a must try. The service was great. The seating was very causal. My new favorite place. Extensive menu. read more

I do have to say that I was pleasantly surprised! Smokin' Jay's doesn't sauce everything like many places do. I had the tri-tip & brisket plate with chili beans and cole slaw on the side. The tri-tip was smoked and the flavor was very good. I chose the "cap" (moist) end of the brisket for my meal, and it didn't disappoint. Tender, juicy, moist and very flavorful. The chili beans were very tasty, and it came with a side of macaroni salad anyway. The slaw wasn't anything to write home about - but it certainly didn't detract from the meal itself. I also got a taste of their mac-n-cheese (not bad at all), and their french fries were very good as well. Service was very good. Order at the register and grab a table. We were there during a very busy lunch hour, but still was able to find a place to sit inside. It's clean and the music isn't ear-splittingly loud. It was a warm day but there was a cool breeze blowing through, so it was a pleasure sitting inside or out. Would I go back again? Yes, many times. The brisket was so good I got a half pound to go for supper. read more

Okay, I only went here once and I got this special that was two small burgers and fries with sauce. I forget what it was called. Also I got the Whorechata coffee shake. The shake was yummy and nice n thick. The burgers were ok. Greasy and flavorful, so if you like getting hit in the face with flavor, this is for you. The fries were good. I remember thinking, "I never had sauce like this on fries. It's really good!" Couldn't tell you what it was though. Guess that means I have to go again. And probably I need to try the barbecue too (u_u) read more

Ok I'll start with this, if you are a foodie it's definitely worth checking this place out. The food LOOKED amazing but something was off on everything we ordered. Smash burger was very bland and cheese was barely melted and the bun was stale. Chicken tender was crispy but the seasoning on it was very heavy and the brisket and pork on the fries was amazing but too much sauce killed the fries. Service was quick and speedy. Not much going on there. For ambiance, I will say the menu has wayyyyyy too much going on. I would rather have it slashed by half and easier to read. The blue in the restaurant is good but the menu blends in and it's hard to see what you're looking at Gotta mention that drinks were bomb asl. read more

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Disappointing. My BF and I love BBQ and wings so thoughts we'd try after all the great reviews. Brisket was so fatty, wings were oily and had zero flavour or heat (had to salt them) and the mac-n-cheese was not only cold but the shells were not cooked even al dente. $50 later we left feeling gross and ripped off and no we didn't finish anything or take it to go and I got as far as Padaro before we had to pull off the hwy so I could use a bathroom so yeah great experience. read more

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