Route 23 BBQ — Restaurant in Baldwin Township

I was under the impression this was a restaurant. I've never been to any other restaurant that treats outdoor dining as takeout. Neither the hostess or person who took our order mentioned they would not be bringing the food to the table. We waited a solid hour outside and not a single worker came out to check why we hadn't came in or to mention the food was ready. When we started to see people driving away who arrived after us, we figured something was up. We go inside and ask what's going on with the order as it's been an hour and they just grab it from the warming area and say here it's ready. Ofc half the meal was dry by this point. Of course the meal was paid for and 18% tip before any of the service related issues occured... Figures. We ordered the Pit Platter, to split. I really wasn't expecting the brisket to be chopped and sauced. I fully expected a slice of unsauced brisket in all it's rich, bark-laden glory. It tasted good, but honestly it could have been any beef roast the way it was served and I wouldn't have been able to tell. The Mac n cheese was pretty good, I have to say. We arrived around 5pm and there was only 1 table of people inside, that I saw. It wasn't busy at all, so I have to just assume this is their standard lack of service. I was really looking forward to eating here, but sadly I won't be going back. What a terrible service experience. I'm not paying sit down prices for a takeout experience. I have a wood smoker at home. It's really a shame, after reading other reviews, the service staff seems to really be...

Hands-Down the Best Brisket & Buffalo Chicken Dip in the Country

As someone who has traveled extensively through all 48 states, I can confidently say that Route 23 BBQ serves the best brisket I’ve had in Michigan — and more impressively, the best buffalo chicken dip in the entire country. That’s not an exaggeration. The buffalo dip is creamy, spicy, and addictive — a perfect balance of flavor and texture — but what truly elevates it are the housemade chips. They’re crisp, lightly salted, and clearly made with care. Together, the combo is unbeatable.

The brisket? Absolutely phenomenal. Smoked to perfection with a deep bark and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that rivals top-tier BBQ joints from Texas to the Carolinas. It’s smoky, juicy, and expertly seasoned — no sauce needed, but their sauces are excellent too.

The vibe at Route 23 BBQ is warm, laid-back, and incredibly inviting. From the moment we walked in, every single person greeted us — “Hello,” “How are you?” — it wasn’t just polite, it was genuine. The staff checked in with us constantly, but never in a pushy way — just real hospitality from people who care about your experience.

It may look like a small-town local joint from the outside, but don’t be fooled — this is a destination-worthy BBQ spot, and the owners are down-to-earth, welcoming, and treat you like family.

Whether you’re a Michigan local or just passing through, do yourself a favor and make the stop. You’ll walk away full, happy, and already planning...

Stumbled upon this place headed to Oscoda! SO glad we stopped! we pulled in and found the LAST parking spot. it was meant to be! 😁 we knew from a packed parking lot and the smell when we walked in...that we wouldn't be disappointed!! I always follow my nose and it smelled amazing in there. I knew I was going to eat good. I come from a family who cooks with a lot of love and you can taste that love. well, I 100% tasted the love in the food. Service was really nice as well. I felt so welcomed and almost like family. really nice to find up north! I felt so welcomed and right at home!💜🌼 So good we only got a picture of the cookie at the end. Key lime pie was SO good!!

Mac and cheese was one of the best I've had in a long time. You can tell they use a good cheese for it. Baked beans were also one of my favorite and don't get me started over the little corn cornbread muffins!! we had to order extra ones so we didn't fight over them.. Also, LOVED the music. The place had my kind of people. Cook with their hearts. 2024 my saying has been "I'm going where the love is" and I definitely felt it here. Staff was happy, music was vibing and food had lots of love! ...lol definitely...