Holy Smoke

- 241 NY-6N, Mahopac, NY 10541

For New Yorkers who appreciate the true artistry of low-and-slow smoking, Holy Smoke in Mahopac, NY, is a long-standing, beloved destination that brings authentic barbecue traditions right to Putnam County. Operating as both a serious barbecue restaurant and a well-regarded bar, Holy Smoke has established a reputation over many years for delivering high-quality, generously portioned smoked meats, along with an impressive selection of craft beers and bourbons.

The core of the dining experience revolves around their "Tales From The Pit." Here, the commitment to authenticity shines through with staples like the signature Texas Brisket, a favorite among beef lovers that is smoked for 17 hours to achieve a deep, rich, and smoky flavor. The pork offerings are equally essential, featuring both tender 1/2 Slab St. Louis Ribs (known for being meaty and flavorful due to higher fat content) and the succulently tender, "fall off the bone" Full Slab Babyback Ribs (prized for their leanness and tenderness). Customers can also indulge in the house-favorite Carolina Pulled Pork, which is meticulously rubbed, basted, and slow-smoked for 16 hours.

One of the true local specialties served here is the House Made Pastrami, which involves brining the brisket for a full week and then smoking it for 17 hours before slicing it thin—an artisan process that elevates a deli classic to true barbecue excellence. This specialty can be enjoyed as a main plate or as the star of the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. For those who simply cannot choose, the Holy Smoke Combo Platters offer a perfect solution, allowing patrons to sample a variety of the pit specialties.

Beyond the smoker, the menu caters to a variety of tastes with options from the "Grill And Country" section, including Grilled Marinated Chicken Breast, Grilled Atlantic Salmon, and classic comfort dishes like Fried Buttermilk Chicken. The burger selection is also noteworthy, featuring the half-pound Half-Pound Usda Choice Chargrilled Burgers and the towering Holy Smoke BBQ Burger, topped with pulled pork, brisket, and aged NY cheddar. The side dishes are treated with the same care, highlighted by the decadent Triple Mac and Cheese and options like Sweet Corn Fritters and Fried Pickles. Across the board, reviews consistently praise the "huge" portion sizes, with many noting that they are "guaranteed to have leftovers."

It must be noted, however, that the restaurant has faced some criticism, particularly concerning food consistency and flavor on recent visits. Some customer reviews mention having a "bad experience," describing dishes as tasting "reheated, at best," and noting that items like the shredded BBQ sandwich were "cold, rubbery and dry," and the Mac and Cheese was "cold, and floury." Another review went so far as to call a takeout meal "the worst food I’ve ever had," citing a lack of flavor in the wings and a "funky" taste to the cheese in the Mac and Cheese. This suggests that while the quality has been highly rated in the past and the concept is strong, potential diners should be aware of these recent reported inconsistencies in food execution.

Holy Smoke is ideally positioned to serve the Mahopac and wider Westchester/Putnam County communities. Its location on a main route ensures easy access for both local residents and tourists traveling through the area.

The address is:

241 NY-6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA

The venue is accommodating to guests with various needs and modes of transport:

• A spacious free parking lot is available, alongside free street parking options.
• The casual layout and general amenities, including a bar and restrooms, support an accessible and comfortable dining experience for all patrons.
• The restaurant features a Bar Room, Main Dining Room, Patio, and a Great Lawn, offering plenty of space for guests to relax and socialize.

The range of services provided by Holy Smoke is extensive, moving beyond a simple dine-in model to serve multiple needs:

• Dine-in: Full table service is available for lunch, dinner, and dessert.
• Outdoor Seating: A highly desirable feature for the warmer months, allowing patrons to enjoy their barbecue outside.
• Takeout: Convenient service for ordering and picking up meals to enjoy at home.
• Catering: Comprehensive catering services are offered for events and large parties, with family-style options for groups of 25 or more.
• Accepts Reservations: Guests can call ahead to reserve a table, recommended for groups or busy dining periods.
• Family-Friendly: The inclusion of a dedicated Kids' menu and High chairs makes it a welcoming place for families.

Holy Smoke's appeal extends beyond the food itself, with several features that enhance the overall guest experience:

• World-Class Beer Selection: The bar is rated highly for its "Great beer selection" and has even been rated "WORLD CLASS (A+)" by BeerAdvocate.com, often featuring a diverse and rotating tap list of craft beers.
• Great Cocktails & Bourbon: A full bar, including hard liquor and wine, is available, with a particular focus on a strong selection of bourbons that pair excellently with the smoked meats.
• Serves Local Specialty: The House Made Pastrami and Homemade Chorizo Sausage demonstrate a commitment to unique, slow-smoked specialties that go beyond standard BBQ fare.
• Fast Service: Known for offering a "Quick bite" option and generally providing efficient service.
• Sports Viewing: The bar area often features sports on TV, adding to the casual, group-friendly atmosphere.
• Large Portions: The enormous serving sizes for both entrees and combo platters are a key highlight, ensuring value for money.
• Atmosphere: The venue is described as having a comfortable "Casual, Cozy" atmosphere, appealing to both family groups and tourists.

To inquire about the menu, check hours, or make reservations, please use the following contact details:

Address: 241 NY-6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA
Phone: (845) 628-9795

For New York residents in the Mahopac area and beyond, Holy Smoke is worth choosing primarily for its commitment to authentic, pit-smoked barbecue and its exceptional bar program. The restaurant's reputation is built on classic smoked meats like the 17-hour Texas Brisket, two distinct styles of ribs (Baby Back and St. Louis), and the highly praised Carolina Pulled Pork.

The secondary but equally strong reason to visit is the celebrated beverage selection. The "Great cocktails" and "Great beer selection" with a world-class reputation for craft beer, combined with a strong bourbon list, make it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of both smoked food and quality drinks. The option of an enjoyable Outdoor seating area further enhances its appeal as a vibrant social hub.

While recent customer feedback indicates potential inconsistencies with food temperature and quality—an issue that should be considered—the foundation of the restaurant is solid, centered on huge portions, unique house-made specialties like the pastrami and chorizo, and a highly social, family-friendly environment. Diners looking for a full-flavored, hearty barbecue experience with great drink pairings in a cozy, casual setting should place Holy Smoke at the top of their list.

Holy Smoke

241 NY-6N, Mahopac, NY 10541, USA