J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York: Meet the Pitmaster
Best BBQ in the Catskills? J&J Smokehouse BBQ in Catskill, NY Is a Hidden Gem
We sat down with Pitmaster Jim Sterling of J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York. Tucked at the end of historic Main Street, J & J Smokehouse BBQ delivers one of the most authentic barbecue experiences in New York’s Hudson Valley. Set inside a converted 1940s gas station beneath a train trestle and overlooking Catskill Creek, the atmosphere is equal parts rustic, local, and scenic—making it a true hidden gem just minutes off the New York State Thruway.
Image Credit: J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York
Signature items include towering pulled pork sandwiches, chopped brisket, ribs, and creative specials like the Catskill Cuban and house-smoked pastrami dishes—all paired with homemade sides and sauces that elevate the experience beyond typical roadside BBQ.
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
Daisy, my Blue Heeler puppy, wakes up at 5:12am every day - let's just say, I'm really grateful for caffeine! I wrap up my workday around 7:30pm - head home to watch the news, catch up with my son and then hopefully catch another amazing Catskill Mountain sunset.
Do you have a favorite pitmaster that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
James Haller - Blue Strawberry and Chris Schlessenger - East Coast Grill - both were an inspiration.
Being a chef and running a restaurant - it's much different than what you see on tv. Do what you enjoy, be proud of your food and keep your menu short.
Image Credit: J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
“Taste of the Town” Lowell, MA
“Best of Greene County” 2026
And a number of awards in between including a 6'4" son, and I cooked for a date once and she married me.
What do you typically cook at home?
Cereal, fruit, salads. I make a mean peanut butter and saltines.
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
I’m not real trendy.
What drink do you enjoy most?
I drink a lot of lemon lime Gatorade but a cavity inducing cocktail at the end of the week tastes really good!
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
My wife. She's my celebrity.
Image Credit: J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York
What’s Your Instagram So Readers Can Follow You?
You can follow us on Instagram at @jjsmokehousebbqcatskill.
What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? AND did you like it?
I don't think I've been there yet.
Image Credit: J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York
Why should readers visit J&J Smokehouse in Catskill, New York?
BBQ is different by region, state, or chef and we've blended flavors and recipes into what works for us. We are in a beautiful location with a train trestle over the Catskill Creek, a view of the Catskill Mountains and some tasty BBQ. Come for the BBQ and stay to enjoy our community and scenery.
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