Barbecue restaurants

The Smokin Birds

4.8 193 reviews 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM 3142 Muskoka District Road 169, Bala, ON L0K 1E0, Canada

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If you’re heading to Bala, ON, “The Smokin Birds” is an unmissable barbecue gem. Nestled conveniently along Muskoka District Road 169, this women-run trailer smokehouse delivers an extraordinary culinary experience that leaves patrons raving. Diners consistently praise the quality and flavor of the smoked meats, particularly the brisket sandwich. With reviews mentioning tender, flavorful brisket cooked on-site daily, it’s a must-try for meat lovers.

The menu features more than just the standout brisket; the deluxe burger—with its crispy bacon—receives high marks, and side offerings like chili fries and the unique street corn are also crowd-pleasers. It's worth noting that the fries are often fried in beef tallow, setting them apart from competitors. One customer highlights the decadent "Bannoffee Pie," calling it a 10/10 dessert for those with a sweet tooth.

While some comments mention the slightly higher prices, many agree that the quality justifies the cost. With great service and an inviting outdoor seating area, “The Smokin Birds” offers a cozy dining atmosphere. Whether you're a cottage-goer or a day-tripper from Toronto, this barbecue spot promises a memorable meal and an ideal stop in Muskoka.

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Amenities & More

Service options

Outdoor seating
Onsite services
Delivery

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Counter service
Dessert
Seating

Crowd

LGBTQ+ friendly

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with The Smokin Birds before visiting.

Reviews for The Smokin Birds

4.8

193 reviews

100%

Review highlights

Based on 193 reviews

The Smokin Birds is widely praised for its high-quality smoked barbecue offerings, particularly their brisket and uniquely prepared fries fried in beef tallow. Customers consistently highlight the exceptional flavor and freshness of the meats, with brisket being a standout item. The outdoor seating and scenic location add to the dining experience, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. While prices are noted to be on the higher side, most agree that the taste and portion sizes justify the cost. Service receives positive mentions for being friendly and efficient, despite occasional busy periods. Overall, The Smokin Birds is recognized as a must-visit barbecue spot in the Muskoka area with a strong reputation for quality and atmosphere.

Brink12Con1080p

Jun 05, 2025

Best smoked food in Muskoka! This location serves amazing food, with great service and not bad wait times. They are a little expensive, BUT. Their food is easily worth the price. If you haven't tried this place yet, I'd highly recommend it! Their sides are very delicious, the fries may be store bought crinkle fries, but they're the only place around that fries their fries in beef tallow instead of processed oils. The Dessert "Bannoffee Pie" is a definite 10/10 recommended if you have a sweet tooth!

Jeremy McQuay

Jun 01, 2025

Awesome place at the side of the road in a beautiful setting. I had the brisket sandwich and fries and my wife had the salad with brisket. Both of us were blown away by the quality and taste. If you like good food I highly recommend this spot. I would actually do a day trip from Toronto just for this meal.

Ricky Khurana (Real Estate Expert)

May 24, 2025

The food here is so good! We been here a couple of times and it does not disappoint. The deluxe burger was good if you like bacon, the plain Jane is delicious too and comes with onions, ketchup, mayo, mustard! The potato salad was okay, the chilli fries was a home run! There’s lots of seating outdoor and parking spots as well. When in Bala, you MUST eat here

Heather Yates

May 17, 2025

Seeking a BBQ/burger trailer leaving cottage country? This is it! We all enjoyed this women-run smokehouse (trailer). Had the Beef Brisket sandwich and kiddo had the burger w cheese. Both were exceptional. Street corn is in a container (no messy corn cobs to deal with if on the road). And the fries were fried in their own rendered beef fat. Worth the 10 minute wait. It got busy after us, people were waiting about 15-20 minutes... Worth it. Picnic table with sunbrellas were lovely. Would have been less comfortable in the rain.

Brian M

May 09, 2025

If you love briskets, then this is the place for you. Cooked on site daily, with amazing flavour. Brisket burgers and more. Slightly pricey, but for the quality of food, it's just right. Service is great with friendly staff. Definite stop if you are in the area.

Lisa Tunney

Apr 30, 2025

One word. Yummy. I couldn’t stop eating the fries. And the beef brisket sandwich melted in my mouth. Staff were super friendly. They have several nice, clean picnic tables with umbrellas. They have some parking or just park at the community lots and walk over. Right on the main street in Bala. Totally worth the visit.

justin meek

Apr 17, 2025

Love this place, and love they are back for another season, had a great Mother’s Day lunch today, fan freaking tastic, Brisket sandwich, share Mexican corn and fries, for the go to order...

Scott

Mar 31, 2025

Delicious from start to finish. Turkey with a side of street corn is my go to. Brisket chilli fries are an added bonus. Beet salad with everything. Brisket so tender and juicy. Absolute must when in the area. So good, I bought the tshirt.