Most items on the menu at The Saltbox Smokehouse in Sodus use meat cured and smoked in house. It is a rustic smokehouse and deli in western New York apple country, between Oswego and Rochester. The food is served for eat-in or carry-out.
Finger Lakes readers voted The Saltbox Smokehouse FLX Finest Gold for BBQ in 2026, FLX Finest Gold for Catering in 2026, and FLX Finest Gold for Sandwiches in 2025 and 2026. The 2026 Sandwiches title followed the same win in 2025.
James and Sara are the owners. James, who goes by Smokey, is the pitmaster who keeps the fire stocked and the smoke going. He calls Sara The Boss. The About page says she holds the place together and inspires recipes. The owners say their goal is to give the local community the finest cured and smoked food in a relaxed, rustic setting where everyone feels at home.
The sandwich list includes the Saltbox BLT, On Top of Old Smokey, a Brisket Cheesesteak, the Knuckle Sandwich, a Brisket Sandwich and a Steakhouse Sandwich. Saja Wings are smoked chicken wings offered in several sauces, including Mild, Buffalo, BBQ and Garlic Parm. The house smoked kielbasa comes in Garlic Cheddar or Jalapeno Cheddar, and the menu also lists beef jerky. The deli sells bacon by the pound in more than 15 varieties. A 2024 listing in (585) Magazine recommended the chocolate chunk cookie with bacon bits. The About page says unique specials sometimes find a permanent place on the menu.
The catering menu covers pulled pork, BBQ pulled chicken, burnt ends, sliced brisket, cheesy smoked meatballs, smoked chicken wings and halves, smoked kielbasa, deli meat and cheese trays, and charcuterie platters. Orders come in half pans that serve 16 or full pans that serve 32.
Plan ahead for catering: the site asks for orders at least 7 to 10 days out, and May through September is high demand, so book early. Gift cards are available. Check the website for current hours.