Big J's Smokehouse 134 1st Street Southwest, Rothsay, MN 56579

"A hidden gem. Just off of 94 between Fergus Falls and Moorhead it is well worth the stop. Housed inside an old turn-of-the-century building it has wonderful ambience. The food was delicious, the portions were large, and the owner was very friendly and responsive. Definitely planning on making this a regular stop."

"This restaurant was so good! Everything was cooked perfectly! The atmosphere is great and the employees friendly. We will definitely go back."

"Never tried the BBQ here before, but wanted to try some Minnesota Q for the first time. We ordered the brisket and the pulled pork to try a variety along with a suggested side of the Mac n cheese. The brisket was pretty dry with an oily backing. It was missing character in taste and the fullness of a good quality piece of beef. The pulled pork was also dry also including the oily backing and mealy texture. The mac had a lack of cheese and greasy. When we go to get BBQ, there’s obviously some greasiness you’re going to meet no pun intended, but not a saturation of it. Juiciness, good texture and character (smoke profile) is key. Last but not least were the sauces. Both the sweet and regular were much like sugar water. We we’re really hoping to find a good local BBQ place to call home. We’ve had Q from all over the country and have smoked/Q’d for over 30 years. I understand that not only there can be different tastes (preferences), but also styles available to like our dislike. Yet I could not recommend poor quality in meat and execution of Qing. I wish you guys well and hope things get better"

"As far as smoked meats go in the ottertail county area, I don't think you can get better than here. I had the ribs and they were delicious. My wife had the famous mac and really enjoyed it. The sides were good but too large I walked out of there feeling like I didn't need to eat for a week! Prices are really good for the amount and quality you get. Service was great!"

"Really good food. Philly came out dry this last time in my opinion. Asked for no onions on a salad and received them anyway. Waitress was a little slow on service when we were the only table in there. Asked for a refill and the other two adults at my table received refills but I did not. Then we were all ready to go (half the table standing and kids getting restless) and it took about 20 minutes for her to ask how we wanted our tickets, bring us boxes, get us our tickets, and to run our cards. One more table had came in at the end but wasn't even ready so shouldn't have been busy. Kids meals are way too expensive as well. $9.50 was spent on a 1 year 9 month old meal and drink. She barely ate the food and her mothers meal cost $14.75 for both."