Smoke On The Water BBQ and Seafood in Conneaut is a culinary gem that brings together the rich flavors of traditional barbecue with the fresh, vibrant tastes of seafood. Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, this restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere where locals and visitors alike can indulge in expertly crafted dishes.
Whether you’re craving tender smoked meats or succulent seafood, their diverse menu promises to satisfy a wide range of palates. The combination of expertly smoked barbeque and the bounty of the lake creates a unique dining experience that captures the essence of both land and sea.
The menu at Smoke On The Water is thoughtfully curated, featuring an impressive lineup of appetizers, mains, and sides that showcase the restaurant’s attention to detail and commitment to quality. From smoky ribs glazed with house-made sauces to fresh catches grilled to perfection, every plate tells a story of passion and craftsmanship.
The restaurant also caters to those who prefer lighter fare or vegetarian options, ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable dining experience for all guests.
Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a special celebration, Smoke On The Water BBQ and Seafood offers an atmosphere and menu that make every meal memorable. Their dedication to fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and impeccable service makes this spot a must-visit destination in Conneaut’s vibrant food scene.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Smoke On The Water sets the stage for a satisfying meal, offering a variety of flavorful bites that awaken the palate. These starters blend traditional BBQ favorites with seafood-infused options, perfect for sharing or indulging solo.
Among the highlights are the smoked wings, which come glazed in a choice of sauces ranging from sweet honey BBQ to spicy cayenne. Each wing is slow-cooked to deliver that signature smoky aroma and tender texture.
For those who prefer seafood, the crab cakes stand out with their golden crust and rich, creamy interior, served alongside a tangy remoulade sauce.
Vegetarian diners can enjoy the grilled vegetable platter, featuring a colorful assortment of seasonal produce seasoned with herbs and olive oil. This dish perfectly balances smoky flavors with fresh, natural sweetness.
Popular Starters
- Smoked Chicken Wings – Available in mild, hot, or BBQ glaze
- Crab Cakes – Served with house-made remoulade
- Grilled Vegetable Platter – Seasonal vegetables with herb seasoning
- Stuffed Jalapeños – Filled with cream cheese and wrapped in bacon
“The appetizers at Smoke On The Water are a perfect introduction to their mastery of flavor, combining smoky, spicy, and fresh elements that leave you eager for more.”
Signature BBQ Plates
Smoke On The Water’s BBQ plates are the heart and soul of the menu, showcasing their expertise in smoking meats to perfection. These dishes are slow-cooked over wood fire, infusing each cut with deep, robust flavors that BBQ enthusiasts crave.
The ribs are a standout, featuring fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy notes thanks to their signature dry rub and glaze. Pulled pork sandwiches served on freshly baked buns come loaded with tangy coleslaw and pickles, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.
Brisket lovers will appreciate the generous slices served with a side of smoky beans and cornbread, highlighting the depth of flavor achieved through hours of careful smoking and seasoning. For an added touch, the menu allows customization with sauces varying from classic BBQ to spicy chipotle.
BBQ Meat Options
| Meat | Cooking Style | Signature Sauce | Recommended Side |
| Baby Back Ribs | Slow smoked over hickory | Sweet & Tangy BBQ | Coleslaw |
| Pulled Pork | Smoked and shredded | Classic BBQ | Pickle slices |
| Beef Brisket | Low and slow smoked | Spicy Chipotle | Smoky baked beans |
“Each BBQ plate at Smoke On The Water is a testament to patience and precision, with smoke and spice carefully balanced to honor tradition while exciting the palate.”
Seafood Specialties
Capitalizing on its proximity to Lake Erie, Smoke On The Water offers an array of seafood dishes that are fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared. The seafood selection complements the BBQ offerings, providing lighter, yet equally satisfying options.
Fresh lake perch, lightly battered and fried to a crisp golden finish, is a favorite among seafood lovers. Served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges, it highlights the freshness of the catch.
Grilled salmon, marinated in herbs and citrus, delivers a smoky, tender bite that pairs wonderfully with seasonal vegetables.
For those seeking variety, the seafood platter combines several favorites including shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets, offering a comprehensive taste of the region’s aquatic bounty. This dish is perfect for sharing and is a great introduction to the seafood offerings.
Featured Seafood Dishes
- Lake Perch Basket – Lightly battered and fried fresh daily
- Grilled Salmon – Herb and citrus marinated
- Seafood Platter – Shrimp, scallops, and fish fillets
- Seared Scallops – Served with garlic butter sauce
“The seafood at Smoke On The Water captures the essence of Lake Erie’s freshness, prepared with care to bring out natural flavors enhanced by subtle smoky undertones.”
Sides and Accompaniments
The sides at Smoke On The Water are crafted to complement the main dishes, offering a mix of classic BBQ staples and fresh, vibrant options. These accompaniments round out the meal and provide balance to the rich flavors of the meats and seafood.
Traditional favorites like creamy mac and cheese and baked beans are prepared with a smoky twist, adding depth to familiar dishes. The coleslaw is a crisp, refreshing counterpoint with a perfect blend of tang and sweetness.
For guests seeking lighter options, the seasonal salad features fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a house vinaigrette.
Additionally, the cornbread served is moist and slightly sweet, often paired with honey butter to enhance its flavor. These sides are available in various portion sizes to accommodate different appetites and preferences.
Popular Side Dishes
| Side | Description | Recommended Pairing |
| Smoky Baked Beans | Slow-cooked with bacon and BBQ spices | Beef Brisket |
| Coleslaw | Crisp cabbage with tangy dressing | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| Mac and Cheese | Creamy with a smoky cheddar blend | Baby Back Ribs |
| Seasonal Salad | Fresh greens with house vinaigrette | Grilled Salmon |
“The thoughtfully prepared sides at Smoke On The Water elevate the dining experience, providing both comfort and freshness to every plate.”
Desserts
Finishing your meal with a dessert from Smoke On The Water is a delightful experience that continues the restaurant’s commitment to quality and flavor. The dessert menu features a mix of classic southern sweets and lighter options to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Their signature smoked apple pie offers a unique twist on a beloved classic, with a smoky aroma that enhances the tartness of the apples and the sweetness of the crust. For chocolate lovers, the rich, fudgy brownie is served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating an irresistible combination of textures and temperatures.
Seasonal fruit crisps are also available, highlighting fresh, local produce topped with a crunchy oat topping. These desserts provide a satisfying conclusion to a hearty meal without overwhelming the palate.
Dessert Selections
- Smoked Apple Pie – Classic apple pie with a smoky finish
- Warm Fudge Brownie – Served with vanilla ice cream
- Seasonal Fruit Crisp – Made with local fruits and oat topping
- Key Lime Pie – Tart and creamy with a graham cracker crust
“Smoke On The Water’s desserts are the perfect balance of indulgence and refinement, showcasing creativity that complements the savory dishes.”
Beverages and Cocktails
The beverage menu at Smoke On The Water is designed to complement the robust flavors of the food, offering a diverse selection of craft beers, wines, and signature cocktails. Each drink is carefully selected or crafted to enhance the dining experience.
Local craft beers dominate the beer list, providing a range of options from light ales to bold stouts. Wine selections focus on varietals that pair well with smoky meats and seafood, including crisp whites and full-bodied reds.
Signature cocktails incorporate fresh ingredients with a smoky or spicy twist, offering guests a unique way to elevate their meal.
Non-alcoholic options include house-made lemonades, iced teas, and specialty sodas, ensuring there is something for everyone at the table.
Featured Drinks
| Beverage | Description | Recommended Pairing |
| Smoky Old Fashioned | Classic cocktail with a hint of hickory smoke | Beef Brisket |
| Local IPA | Crisp with citrus and pine notes | Grilled Salmon |
| House-Made Lemonade | Refreshing and sweetened naturally | Crab Cakes |
| Chardonnay | Buttery and oaky with tropical fruit flavors | Lake Perch |
“The curated beverage offerings at Smoke On The Water are crafted to bring balance and depth to every dish, enhancing both casual and special occasion meals.”
Specials and Seasonal Offerings
Smoke On The Water frequently updates its menu with specials and seasonal dishes that highlight local ingredients and culinary creativity. These offerings provide guests with fresh, innovative options alongside the classic menu staples.
Seasonal specials often include unique seafood preparations or BBQ variations that reflect the time of year and availability of fresh produce. For example, summer months may feature a grilled shrimp salad with fresh berries, while autumn might bring smoked turkey plates paired with pumpkin-infused sides.
These specials encourage repeat visits and offer an opportunity to experience new flavors crafted by the kitchen team’s passion for innovation and quality.
Examples of Seasonal Specials
- Grilled Shrimp and Berry Salad – Summer special with seasonal fruits
- Smoked Turkey Plate – Autumn special with pumpkin sides
- Blackened Walleye – Spring special with fresh herbs
- BBQ Pulled Jackfruit – Vegan seasonal option
“By embracing seasonal ingredients and creative cooking, Smoke On The Water keeps the menu vibrant and exciting throughout the year.”
Conclusion
Smoke On The Water BBQ and Seafood in Conneaut offers a remarkable fusion of traditional smoked barbecue and fresh seafood, set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Erie. Their menu is a reflection of dedication to quality, flavor, and variety, appealing to a broad spectrum of tastes and preferences.
The carefully crafted dishes—from rich, smoky ribs to delicately prepared lake perch—demonstrate the kitchen’s expertise and passion for their craft.
The restaurant’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients combined with a welcoming atmosphere makes every visit a memorable event. Thoughtful sides, handcrafted desserts, and an extensive beverage selection further enhance the dining experience, ensuring that every meal is well-rounded and satisfying.
Whether you are a devoted BBQ fan or a seafood enthusiast, Smoke On The Water offers something exceptional.
By continuously introducing seasonal specials and maintaining high standards across all menu items, Smoke On The Water remains a standout destination in Conneaut’s culinary landscape. It is a place where the warmth of smoked flavors meets the refreshing tastes of the lake, creating a harmonious and unforgettable dining experience that invites guests to return time and time again.
