Smokin Woody's — Restaurant in Chikaming Township

An Unforgettable Meal and Atmosphere at Smokin' Woody's It's not often that I take the time to praise a restaurant, but Smokin' Woody's is a true gem that deserves all the compliments. Located just minutes off I-94 in Sawyer, Michigan, this spot offers more than just incredible food—it provides an experience defined by a warm atmosphere and genuine hospitality. The menu is a carnivore's dream, featuring an array of outstanding options. Don't miss the smoked brisket, which is phenomenal with its special BBQ sauce, and be sure to try the crispy crinkle-cut fries and rib tips. Other highlights include the juicy smoked turkey sandwich, half-smoked chicken, BBQ ribs, and steaks. Sides like the delicious baked beans and coleslaw are the perfect accompaniment, but the real showstopper is Woody's homemade Apple or Blueberry pie, an absolute knockout winner. Owner Michael, affectionately known as "Smokemaster Mike" or just "Woody" to his friends, comes from a family with a deep-rooted history in the restaurant industry. He's a highly decorated and trained chef, but his passion for excellent barbecue is what shines through at Smokin' Woody's. He's constantly smoking meats with a special selection of woods like cherry, apple, and hickory, and his proprietary recipes are simply phenomenal. His love for both great food and people is evident in every detail. While the food is reason enough to visit, the friendly atmosphere truly makes Smokin' Woody's special. The open conversations among customers create a scene straight out of a Norman Rockwell painting, capturing the heartwarming essence of a small Midwest town. Regulars love to share stories, and Woody greets everyone with a smile and a level of care that feels all too rare these days. Smokin' Woody's has more regular hours during the summer, but it's a good idea to call ahead to secure a table or order some finger-lickin' ribs for takeout. The restaurant is cash only, so stop by the cash station ahead. Take your meal to go and enjoy it by the lake, but I'm confident you'll enjoy the experience so much that you'll be telling your friends all about a person almost bigger than life......

I've been smoking ribs for 55 years and have won numerous competitions. That is a long timeline, however, this was possibly my worst rib experience ever; restaurant and food wise. Do yourself a favor and read only the bad reviews, if you want a true understanding of the likes of this place. There is no reason for me to repeat what has already been said by the other one star reviewers. He does one thing right and that is the size of the rib rack. I can't vouch for the meat quality since they are prepared so badly. Baby backs should be 9-10 ribs and be 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 lbs. Marinade for 1 hour in gal. of water with 1 cup kosher salt and 1/2 sugar. Pat dry and put on rub, to your taste, for 1/2 hour before smoking. Roughly 1 Tbs per side. Rub: The following are all TBS. 4 sweet papricka, 2 chili powder,2 gr.cumin, 2 dark brn sugar, 2 salt, 1 oregano, 1 gra. sugar, 1 blk. pepper, 1 white pepper, and 1-2 TEA Spoons cayenne. I'll assume you know how to cook at, low and slow temperatures, and how much smoking wood to use. BEST...

My husband and I just finished eating at Woody's and the whole experience was 10 out of 10. The food was absolutely delishes. The smoked BBQ chicken and ribs where fantastic. The potatoe was cooked perfectly with the right amount of sour cream. The beans where full of flavor and I typically don't like coleslaw but tried it and ended up eating the whole portion. I could eat a container full as a snack. The butter bun was crisp but still chewy and the bread pudding..oh. so. good! The owner was extremely welcoming and had a great sense of humor. The environment was relaxed and just what we needed on our wedding anniversary trip. I only wish we could have a restaurant like this one by our home. If ever in the area again we will be stopping here and highly recommend others do the same! You'll walk out with a full stomach and a smile on your face. Nothing beats those two...