On Route 15 in the middle of Pennsylvania, just past the intersection with Route 11 at the northern tip of Shamokin Dam, lies a majestic site. On a bluff above the banks of the Susquehanna River is a BBQ place. Skeeter’s Pit BBQ has terrific view. And the barbecue is first rate as well.

Skeeter’s has been owned and operated by the Skotedis family since July 2005. But it was not their first restaurant in the area, though. The family had owned another restaurant nearby, Tedd’s Landing. Closed in 2014, Tedd’s had been open for over 50 years. I have long been intrigued by Skeeters, but it took years before I was able to stop there. I am glad I did.

BBQ

Skeeter’s menu has three options for barbecue: on a salad, in a sandwich, or on a platter. The platter comes with 2 sides and a corn bread muffin. They also have two meat combination deals. The meats available are what you would expect: chicken, ribs, brisket, and pulled pork or chicken. Sides include baked beans, cole slaw, fries, apple sauce, and a garden salad. Soups and chili are also available.

I have tried both the sandwich and the platter. I think the platter is a better deal, but I get the sandwich for a smaller meal. It’s also a good way to save space for other menu items. As the pictures show, I have had the brisket and the pulled pork. I enjoyed them both, but alas I do not have a picture of my favorite item: burnt ends. That was a special offering on one of the days I stopped by. The brisket sandwich was served with a creamy horseradish sauce. It’s tang complemented the brisket quite well.

The baked beans are home made and have a good amount of pork bits mixed in. I highly recommend them. The corn chowder is thick and hearty with plenty of both chicken and corn. There was also a good sized dumpling on top. I do want to comment on the potato chips that are served with the sandwiches. These are not your typical chips. They are Middleswarth Potato Chips, made in nearby Middleburg, PA (about 10 miles away). The chips are fresh, crispy, and have great taste. I think it is great that Skeeter’s supports local product like that.

Desserts

Skeeter’s desserts vary seasonally. On one trip, I had a Pumpkin Whoopie pie. Whoopie pies are a regional dish that I have only seen in Pennsylvania (although Wikipedia indicates that they are found elsewhere). They consist of two soft cake rounds filled with icing. The flavors of both the cake or the icing vary. I love Whoopie pies and always try have some whenever I am in Pennsylvania. There is nothing special to note about Skeeter’s version. It was well made and I did enjoy it.

The other dessert I have had at Skeeter’s is another seasonal one, their “Pumpkin Cheesecake Cupcake”. Although they call it a cupcake, it really is a small, individual sized cheesecake. Regardless of the name, it is delicious. The pie was creamy, but not too heavy, and had a mild pumpkin flavor. The sign said it was the best cheesecake in the area and I can see why.

Final thoughts

Skeeter’s has a nice, rustic ambiance. Wooden beams and tables provide a barn like atmosphere, but polished enough so you still feel line you are in a restaurant. And the view is spectacular. You can see it from any table as there are wide windows running the length of the side wall. Service is quick and the wait staff is friendly. All in all, it is a phenomenal dining experience.