Are you looking for some of the best BBQ in Sarasota? Sarasota Local Guide here, giving you the scoop on what’s a pass and what’s a must-go — and Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse is absolutely a must-go.
Photo Credit: © Hannah Boresow
Right off Fruitville Road near I-75 and directly across from Sun Outdoors Sarasota, Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse is a family-run spot known for mouthwatering smoked meats, cold drinks, and live music under a giant chickee hut. Owned by locals Steve and Terry Stottlemyer, it’s been a favorite hangout since 2015.
And don’t just take our word for it — with over 3,300 5-star ratings on Google, it’s clear this place has earned its reputation.
Locals rave about the brisket, visitors say it’s a must-stop, and regulars keep coming back for the laid-back vibe and great service.
Stottlemyer’s SmokeHouse Location & Hours:
Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse: 19 East Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday–Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM (bar open until 9 PM on Tuesday)
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM (bar open until 10 PM)
How They Cook It: Low & Slow with Pecan Wood
Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse follows classic low-and-slow barbecue traditions. Their brisket is smoked overnight for about 12 hours using pecan wood, which gives it a mild, sweet smokiness that’s gentler than hickory or mesquite.
The ribs are smoked for around two and a half hours, ensuring they stay tender and juicy without drying out.
Their dry rub features garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and a hint of cayenne, delivering a balanced flavor without too much heat. The barbecue sauce is made in-house with ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, and apple sauce, but it’s served on the side so the smoky taste of the meat can take center stage.
What’s on the Menu
They offer a diverse menu rooted in Southern BBQ favorites:
BBQ Sampler Platter: Brisket, pulled pork, half chicken, and your choice of ribs, perfect for sharing.
Smoked Jalapeño Poppers: Cheese-stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon, smoked and then fried to crispy perfection.
Award-Winning Fried Chicken: A signature item praised for its crispy, flavorful crust and juicy interior.
Oven-Fired Pizza: A surprising but popular addition that complements the BBQ.
Sides: Traditional Southern staples like collard greens, mac & cheese, cornbread, baked beans, and creamy slaw.
Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse Menu
Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse Live Music
One of the things that sets Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse apart from other BBQ joints in Sarasota is the nightly live music. Their outdoor stage sits under a canopy of mossy oak trees, creating a laid-back, Florida vibe that feels more like a backyard party than a restaurant.
Local bands take the stage every evening, covering everything from classic rock and blues to country, bluegrass, and Americana. Some nights you’ll hear acoustic sets that make great background music for your meal, and other nights it’s full-on jam sessions that get the crowd on their feet.
Whether you’re sipping a cold beer or just finishing off a plate of ribs, the music adds something special — it’s not just dinner, it’s an experience.
Check their website, Facebook, Instagram page for the current band schedule, especially if you’re hoping to catch a specific artist or style.
BBQ That Comes to You: Stottlemyer’s Catering – Sarasota Florida
Stottlemyer’s Smokehouse doesn’t just feed the crowds on-site — they also bring the BBQ to you. Their catering services cover everything from casual backyard gatherings to weddings, corporate events, and large-scale festivals.
You can build a custom menu around their most popular items: smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs, mac and cheese, baked beans, and more. Everything is made fresh and packed with flavor, just like you’d get at the restaurant. They offer pickup, delivery, or full-service catering depending on your event size and needs.
Their team handles the setup, serving, and cleanup if requested — making it easy to throw a memorable event without the stress. And since the sauce is always served on the side, even picky eaters are happy.
Catering requests can be placed online or over the phone, and they recommend booking at least two weeks in advance — especially during Sarasota’s busy season.
Sarasota Local Guide is your trusted source for the best spots, hidden gems, and local favorites around town. We’re passionate about sharing honest reviews and insider tips to help you enjoy Sarasota like a true local.
Sources:
1. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Website
https://www.stottlemyerssmokehouse.com
2. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Menu
https://www.stottlemyerssmokehouse.com/menu
3. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Live Music Schedule
https://www.stottlemyerssmokehouse.com/music
4. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Catering Page
https://www.stottlemyerssmokehouse.com/catering
5. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/stottlemyerssmokehouse
6. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Instagram Profile
https://www.instagram.com/stottlemyerssmokehouse
7. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Google Reviews
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Stottlemyer’s+Smokehouse/@27.336897,-82.437605,17z/data=!4m8!3m7!1s0x88c340bf91ebecfd:0x6eeb6e1fd73f6b2f!8m2!3d27.336897!4d-82.4354173!9m1!1b1!16s%2Fg%2F11b69wt9bw
8. Stottlemyer SmokeHouse Photo:Hannah Boresow