Takeout Restaurants

ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ

4.9 76 reviews Closed 135 Military St, Houlton, ME 04730, United States

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At ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ, located at 135 Military St in Houlton, ME, the experience is undeniably tantalizing for BBQ lovers. This takeout-only establishment focuses on delivering mouthwatering flavors, from their succulent pulled pork to the expertly smoked brisket. Patrons rave about the tender meat and homemade sauces, particularly the revered Hot John sauce, which adds a delightful kick to any dish.

Notable highlights include the Bigfoot Crunch Wrap and Shirewood Mac n Cheese, both of which have earned acclaim for their rich flavors and satisfying textures. The sides, such as coleslaw and Texas toast, complement the mains beautifully, though opinions vary on the sweetness of the cornbread. Customers like Vic Elkins and Kurt Townsend praise the attentive service and the convenient takeout option, making this a must-visit spot in Houlton. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak hours, as the praise for this BBQ gem continues to grow.

In summary, if you're in the area, ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ is a flavorful stop that promises to satisfy your barbecue cravings. Whether for a quick lunch or a feast to go, it’s a culinary experience you won't want to miss!

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Outdoor seating
Onsite services
Takeout
Delivery

Highlights

Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Table service

Amenities

Restroom

Atmosphere

Casual

Crowd

Family-friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safespace

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 ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ before visiting.

Reviews for ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ

4.9

76 reviews

100%

Review highlights

Based on 76 reviews

ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ in Houlton, ME, is widely praised for its flavorful smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, and ribs that are tender and well-seasoned. Customers consistently highlight the quality of the BBQ sauces and popular sides like cole slaw and mac and cheese. The takeout-only format is a noted aspect, with limited outdoor seating and occasional wait times, especially during peak hours, prompting recommendations to call ahead. Service is generally described as friendly and efficient despite busy periods. While the overall experience is highly positive, some guests mention minor preferences, such as the sweetness level of the cornbread. Overall, ShireWood SmokeHouse BBQ is regarded as a must-visit for authentic, satisfying BBQ in the region.

Vic Elkins

Oct 10, 2025

First time at Shirewood Smokehouse, the pulled pork plate, cole slaw and beans were really good. We tried the two hot sauces and both were great. If you're in Houlton, Maine stop by and give this place a try. You won't be disappointed. This is take out only.

Circo9

Sep 26, 2025

Note that this is a take-out-only spot with a few picnic tables on the side of the building. Even though the service is excellent, be prepared to wait a while (about a 20+ minute wait on a Saturday at noon). It's best to call in advance and pick up your food if you're in a hurry. Service aside, the food was great! The pork ribs were absolutely delicious, pull-off-the-bone tender! The brisket was super juicy and fatty with an incredible bark. We didn't like the street corn very much. The cornbread muffins were moist and not too sweet. Their sauces are homemade; we highly recommend the Hot John sauce!

Lisa B

Sep 24, 2025

Had the Bigfoot crunch wrap and the Shirewood mac n cheese. My son and husband had the pulled pork sandwich and fries. All was delicious, and next time we are up, we will be stopping in to eat again

Kevin

Sep 23, 2025

Stopped by for lunch. Got the brisket with the "fatty" option. Was great, and I will definitely come back again when I am in Houlton (not from the area). Collard greens were also excellent. Service was friendly and relatively fast. It was quite busy, but the wait was fine. If I had to find something to complain about, it would be that the cornbread is a little too sweet for my taste. If you are in the area, check them out!

Kurt Townsend

Sep 05, 2025

That was HANDS DOWN the best BBQ I’ve ever had. 10/10 would recommend the Crunchwrap with Brisket!! Very nice people, if you’re in Houlton you’ve gotta try this place! I’ll be back for sure!

chad white

Aug 29, 2025

Top notch food every single time! Very delicious and more important for this area consistent! Ribs are amazing, brisket is melt in your mouth tender, the list goes on!

bob CRIs

Jul 17, 2025

Our first time here! The best brisket we’ve ever had! (Choice of fatty/lean) we had the fatty! It is Soft! Juicy! Melt in your mouth! Delicious! (Didnt get the chance to take a photo as my family cant stop eating!) Grilled wings is a must try too! We also had a toast, fries mashed potato and 3 different kinds of sauces and everything was just absolutely more than a 5 stars! Great service! worth the price! A must try takeaway spot in Houlton Maine! we’ll be back for sure!

C Brown

Jul 07, 2025

Fantastic BBQ. I know how BBQ and sides are supposed to taste. I'm a Pit Master myself from the South. This place has mastered the art of what good ole southern BBQ is supposed to taste like. I have traveled all over Maine eating at BBQ restaurants. No one has come close to ShireWood. I will make the 2-1/2 hour drive when I want to get my BBQ fix.