Nickel’s Pit BBQ
📍 15.9 Miles 🚘 21 Minutes 🚲1 Hour 34 Minutes
Nickels Pit BBQ: wood-smoked flavor & Finger Lakes soul in Watkins Glen
Travel time from North Forest FLX: 20 minutes
Perfect for: casual dinners, post-hike meals, family lunches, local beer lovers, and anyone who appreciates a good smoky barbecue.
A local favorite in the heart of Watkins Glen
After a day exploring waterfalls, vineyards, or scenic drives along Seneca Lake, Nickels Pit BBQ is where you go to kick back, fill up, and soak in the small-town vibes. Located right on Franklin Street, the main drag in downtown Watkins Glen, Nickels is housed in a repurposed firehouse that somehow feels both historic and lively. With its garage doors flung open in the warmer months and a buzz of conversation and clinking glasses inside, this is Finger Lakes comfort food with edge and attitude.
“The food: low + slow, flavor-packed, always satisfying”
Meat-lover musts
Nickels does wood-fired barbecue the right way—slow-cooked meats kissed by hardwood smoke, with crispy edges and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness inside. Their pitmasters are serious about flavor, and it shows in every bite.
Brisket melt: arguably the local cult favorite. Smoked brisket sliced thin and layered with cheese and onions, griddled to golden perfection.
Pulled pork platter: juicy, tangy pork shoulder with just the right bark. Best with a side of their house BBQ sauces.
Smoked chicken wings: hearty, smoky, and a little spicy. Go for the cherry pepper sauce if you like heat.
Pit combos: can’t choose? Try two or three meats with sides and cornbread—it’s a tour of the smokehouse.
House-made sides you’ll dream about later
Their sides are more than an afterthought—they’re destination-worthy.
Mac & cheese: creamy, cheesy, and never bland.
Cornbread with honey butter: sweet, savory, and always served warm.
Collard greens: braised low and slow with smoky undertones.
BBQ beans with brisket burnt ends: enough said.
Drink local: Finger Lakes brews + beyond
Nickels is committed to local—and that includes what’s on tap. They offer a rotating selection of craft beer from the Finger Lakes region, local cider, and New York State wines. Whether you’re into IPAs, lagers, or dry ciders, the bartenders can guide you to a perfect pairing for your meal.
They also carry cocktails and seasonal drink specials. Their bloody mary (available during brunch) is smoky and savory with all the trimmings.
Atmosphere: unfussy and full of life
The vibe here is industrial rustic—a firehouse turned barbecue haven. There’s reclaimed wood, corrugated metal, chalkboard menus, and a mix of booths, tables, and high tops. In the summer, the garage doors open up for fresh air dining and patio seating that spills out onto the sidewalk, giving it a festival-like atmosphere.
They also host live music events and seasonal festivals, especially during summer weekends. You may walk in for a brisket sandwich and find yourself sticking around for a cold beer and a local bluegrass band.
Dog-friendly and family-friendly
Traveling with your pup? Their outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and water bowls are usually available. They’re also kid-friendly, with high chairs, casual vibes, and menu options for picky eaters (hello, chicken fingers and fries).
How to get there from North Forest FLX
Drive time: ~20 minutes
Route: Head east toward Hammondsport, then take NY-54A to NY-414 N toward Watkins Glen.
North Forest insider tips
Time it right: Go in the late afternoon before the dinner rush, especially on weekends. This place gets busy—and for good reason.
Try all three sauces: They make their own house BBQ sauces in three styles—original, mustard-based, and spicy vinegar. Mix and match!
Bring a big appetite: Portions are generous. Consider splitting a combo or coming hungry enough to sample the whole menu.
Nickels Pit BBQ
Address: 205-207 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891
Phone: (607) 210-4227
Website: nickelspitbbq.com
Open: 7 days a week (hours vary seasonally)
Why we love it for North Forest guests
Nickels Pit BBQ captures exactly what makes the Finger Lakes feel special—it’s welcoming, locally rooted, and full of flavor. You’ll leave full, happy, and already planning your next trip back. Whether you're exploring waterfalls or sipping your way around the wine trail, Nickels is the kind of place that feels like a reward at the end of the adventure.
