Not Just Burgers: A Guide to the Barbecue Menu at Yaks on the 5
Not Just Burgers: A Guide to the Barbecue Menu at Yaks on the 5
Most people find Yaks because of the burgers. But our tagline has always been "next level burgers and ridiculously good barbecue," and the barbecue side of the menu is where a lot of regulars end up. If you are in Dunsmuir and craving smoke, here is what to know.
What is on the barbecue menu
Our barbecue menu has its own personality, and its own names:
- She Thinks My Slabs Are Sexy for rib lovers.
- Pick the Wrong Day to Quit Smokin’ Wings when you want something to share.
- The Castle Craig Pastrami, named for the granite spires just south of town.
- The Little Piggy Never Came Home for pork fans.
- Bob’s Barbilicious BBQ Burger when you cannot choose between a burger and barbecue.
- The Hot Cowboy and I Got the BBQ Blues for the rest of the crew.
Tap any item for the full description. Menu items and availability can change, so check at the counter.
How to order barbecue for a group
- Mix a couple of burgers with a barbecue plate and share.
- Wings work well as a starter while everyone decides.
- Barbecue travels well if you are taking food to go.
Mix ribs, wings and sandwiches so everyone can try something. Add salads for balance, or an appetizer like garlic parmesan fries. See group dining.
The sauce
Our house barbecue sauce has a following of its own. Read more about it in our post on the Yaks BBQ sauce.
Pair it right
Barbecue goes with a cold beer or a milkshake. See our guides to craft beer and burgers and milkshakes and drinks for ideas. If you like heat, look at The Hot Cowboy and ask about spice levels.
Barbecue on the road
Barbecue is messy in the car, so it is worth sitting down if you can. Yaks is counter service: order at the counter from the barbecue menu or the burger menu, then take a table. In summer there is outdoor seating out back; in winter seating is indoors. If you are driving I-5, plan the stop for a mealtime so you are not rushing a plate of ribs back to the car.
If you are staying in the area, barbecue makes a good dinner after hiking, fishing or skiing. First-time visitors often split a barbecue plate and a burger so they can try both sides of the menu. Browse the barbecue page and the full menu before you arrive, and ask the counter what is available that day—items and specials can change. Save room for sticky buns or a milkshake if you want dessert. To-go boxes are available if you need to get back on the highway.
After a hike or a highway stretch
Hedge Creek Falls sits at the north end of Dunsmuir, a short drive from Yaks. The walk is about a mile round trip, with free parking near I-5 Exit 732 and no entrance fee. Many travelers do the falls first and then come down Dunsmuir Avenue for barbecue. See our Hedge Creek Falls trail guide if you want to time both stops.
Frequently asked questions
Does Yaks on the 5 serve barbecue?
Yes. The barbecue menu includes ribs, wings, pastrami and BBQ burgers.
Can I get barbecue to go?
Yes, order at the counter and ask for it to go.
What is the most popular barbecue item at Yaks?
Ask at the counter for current favorites. Ribs, wings and pastrami are all on the barbecue menu.
Can I buy Yaks BBQ sauce?
Yaks uses house-made BBQ sauce on menu items such as ribs and wings. Ask the counter whether bottled sauce is available to take home when you visit—availability can change.
Do I order barbecue at the table?
No. Yaks is counter service. You order and pay at the counter, then find a seat.
What are the hours?
We are open 11:30 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Holiday hours can change, so call (530) 678-3517 or check our Google listing before you drive.
Plan your stop at Yaks
Yaks on the 5 is at 4917 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025, just off I-5. We are open 11:30 AM to 8 PM, seven days a week. Call (530) 678-3517 if you want to check anything before you drive, and browse the barbecue menu or the full menu before you get here.
Confirm holiday or special-event hours on our Google listing before you drive.
