Southern BBQ Roots In Big Bear Lake
At the heart of our restaurant is a story of passion and dedication. After three and a half years at The Cookshak, we—Sean Lowe and Garrett Donohoe—took over in January 2025. Sean, from Lake Charles, Louisiana, brings his Southern and barbecue roots, while Garrett, inspired by his grandfather Bill, found his path in food after years in baseball. Together, we’re bringing Texas-style barbecue and Cajun flavors to Big Bear, honoring tradition while making it our own.
What Makes The Cookshak Different
We focus on doing a few things well instead of doing too much. Our meats are smoked for hours, not rushed. Our menu is clear and built around what works. We also keep service easy, whether you dine in or order out. This focus helps us stay consistent and gives our guests a reason to come back.
Built On Care and Consistency
Our mission is to serve food that people can trust. We cook with care, keep our process steady, and treat every order the same way. Whether it’s your first visit or not, we want you to know what to expect. That is what keeps our kitchen running and our guests coming back.
