13 Best BBQ Restaurants In Charleston SC In 2025

Living in Charleston since 2007, I quickly discovered that BBQ is not just something you eat; it is a way of life. As Charleston continues to grow as one of the nation’s best food destinations, so does the opportunity to have delicious BBQ. This is why I decided to put together a list of the “best BBQ restaurants in Charleston, SC” post.

Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its rich history, Southern charm, and mouthwatering food scene, especially when it comes to BBQ. Whether you’re a fan of smoky pulled pork, tender ribs, or tangy sauces, the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC offer something for every palate. Whether you prefer traditional Southern styles or creative twists, the city offers a diverse range of BBQ experiences that reflect its unique culinary heritage.

If you’re on the hunt for the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC, this guide will point you in the right direction. Prepare to indulge in smoked meats, savory sides, and signature sauces that capture the essence of Charleston’s BBQ culture.

Best BBQ In Charleston

Does Charleston have good BBQ? Absolutely! While the city may be known for its seafood and Lowcountry cuisine, the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC prove that it’s also a haven for barbecue lovers.

Scattered throughout The Holy City, you’ll find everything from traditional smokehouses to modern BBQ joints offering new takes on Southern classics. These spots serve up tender pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and creative sides that keep locals and visitors coming back for more.

Whether you’re exploring the historic downtown or venturing into West Ashley, North Charleston, or James Island, you’re never far from a great barbecue experience.

Each neighborhood offers its own standout flavors, with some restaurants focusing on Carolina-style vinegar-based sauces and others delivering Texas or Memphis influences. No matter where you go, Charleston’s BBQ scene will leave you full and satisfied.

Best BBQ Restaurants In Charleston SC

The best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC showcase the city’s diverse and flavorful take on Southern barbecue. Charleston’s BBQ scene offers something for every palate.

Popular spots like Lewis Barbecue and Rodney Scott’s BBQ located in downtown Charleston, Home Team BBQ in multiple neighborhoods, and Swig & Swine in West Ashley and Mount Pleasant serve up signature dishes alongside creative sides.

Whether you’re exploring North Charleston, James Island, or the heart of downtown, these BBQ joints deliver mouthwatering meats and unforgettable flavors that make Charleston a must-visit destination for barbecue lovers.

1. Rodney Scott’s BBQ

Location: 1011 King St., Charleston, SC 29403

Hours Of Operation: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Rodney Scott’s BBQ is renowned for its whole hog barbecue, a traditional cooking style that uses live coal and direct heat. The process involves roasting the hog slowly over the glowing embers of hardwood, which infuses the meat with a deep, smoky flavor.

This method, combined with Rodney Scott’s expertise, results in a rich and bold flavor profile that sets it apart from other barbecue styles. Every bite reflects the art of low-and-slow cooking, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that BBQ lovers can’t resist.

Founded by pitmaster Rodney Scott and restaurateur Nick Pihakis, Rodney Scott’s BBQ is built on passion and dedication. Both friends put their heart and soul into crafting some of the best barbecue, drawing from time-honored traditions while adding their own personal touch.

With locations in Charleston and beyond, the restaurant has become a destination for anyone seeking exceptional Southern BBQ. Their commitment to quality, hospitality, and authentic flavor ensures each meal is memorable, making Rodney Scott’s a standout in Charleston’s thriving BBQ scene.

2. Lewis Barbecue

Location: 464 N. Nassau St., Charleston, SC 29403

Hours Of Operation: Sunday and Monday – 11 AM – 9 PM and Tuesday – Saturday – 11 AM – 10 PM

Lewis Barbecue, which specializes in Texas-style barbecue, has earned a reputation as one of the best barbecue spots in Charleston, recognized by Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Known for its focus on authentic Texas flavors, this restaurant delivers perfectly smoked meats with just the right balance of bark and tenderness. Pitmaster, owner, and founder John Lewis takes pride in every detail of his craft, even welding his own custom-made smokers to ensure each batch of meat is cooked to perfection.

At Lewis Barbecue, the passion for great BBQ is evident in every bite. John Lewis pours his heart and soul into preparing customer favorites like beef ribs, smoked pork spare ribs, and his famous brisket, which keeps visitors coming back for more.

While the lines might be long, they’re worth the wait as locals and tourists gather to enjoy some of the best barbecue Charleston has to offer. Whether you’re dining indoors or on the spacious patio, the experience at Lewis Barbecue is unforgettable for BBQ lovers craving bold, smoky flavors.

3. Palmira Barbecue

Location: 2366 Ashley River Rd, Building 1, Charleston, SC 29414

Hours Of Operation: Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday – 11 AM – 8 PM, Friday and Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM, Closed Monday and Tuesday

Palmira Barbecue, founded by Hector Garate, draws its name and inspiration from his grandmother, who grew up on a sustainable cattle ranch. This heritage drives the restaurant’s commitment to quality, focusing on wood-fired barbecue made with local meats and thoughtfully prepared sides.

At Palmira, the emphasis is on simplicity and authenticity, using fire and smoke to create unforgettable flavors while honoring time-honored cooking traditions.

Hector Garate blends influences from Texas, Carolina, and his native Puerto Rico to craft a rich, flavor-filled experience. Diners can savor standout dishes like tender beef cheeks, smoky brisket, and savory barbacoa, each showcasing Garate’s passion for barbecue.

Palmira Barbecue is the perfect stop to get a great bite of food after a long day of visitng historic plantations on Ashley River Road. Every meal at Palmira feels like a celebration of culture and culinary expertise, where carefully chosen ingredients meet bold, global flavors to create something truly special.

4. Swig & Swine BBQ

Multiple Locations:

• West Ashley: 1217 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29407
• Summerville: 1990 Old Trolley Road, Summerville, SC 29485
• Mount Pleasant: 2379 Highway 41, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
• Moncks Corner: 547 Reid Hill Road, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
• Myrtle Beach: 525 Broadway Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Hours Of Operation: Every location is open Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Swig & Swine BBQ is built on the philosophy that hard work and long hours are essential to making the best barbecue. Every piece of meat is cooked low and slow, allowing the flavors to develop fully and ensuring tender, mouthwatering results.

Founded by Navy veteran and pitmaster Anthony DiBernardo, the restaurant reflects his dedication to excellence and passion for crafting high-quality barbecue. Each bite showcases his commitment to traditional techniques and bold flavors that keep customers coming back for more.

With multiple locations throughout the Lowcountry, Swig & Swine BBQ makes it easy to enjoy great barbecue no matter where you are in the Charleston area. Whether you’re craving brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, you can always pair your meal with a cold one from their impressive selection of craft beers.

Known for its laid-back vibe and welcoming atmosphere, Swig & Swine BBQ offers the perfect spot to kick back with friends, enjoy flavorful barbecue, and savor the best that Southern food and drink have to offer.

5. Southern Roots Smokehouse

Multiple Locations:

• West Ashley: 2544 Savannah Highway, Charleston, SC 29414
• Park Circle – North Charleston: 1033 E. Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

Hours Of Operation: Both locations are open Sunday – Saturday – 11 AM – 2 AM

Southern Roots Smokehouse puts its heart and soul into crafting some of the best barbecue in Charleston. Committed to supporting the community, they strive to use as many local ingredients as possible, including locally sourced meats, produce, and beer.

Their menu is packed with mouthwatering options, from tender brisket to fall-off-the-bone ribs, ensuring there’s something for every BBQ lover to enjoy.

Beyond great food, Southern Roots Smokehouse offers a lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends. As the official watch spot for Michigan fans, it’s a favorite destination for game days.

The fun doesn’t stop there—Southern Roots hosts a wide range of events, including open mic nights and live music performances, creating a dynamic environment where guests can enjoy great food, cold drinks, and vibrant entertainment.

6. Bessinger’s BBQ

Location: 1602 Savannah Hwy., Charleston, SC 29407

Hour Of Operation: Sunday – Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Bessinger’s BBQ is a true family establishment, known as the “first family of BBQ” in South Carolina. This Charleston staple has been perfecting the art of slow-cooked barbecue for generations, using hickory and oak logs to smoke their meats for up to 18 hours. They pride themselves on sourcing only the freshest pork shoulders and hams, ensuring quality and flavor in every bite.

Known for their signature mustard-based barbecue sauce—a family recipe dating back to the 1930s—Bessinger’s BBQ has even earned a nod from Travel Channel’s Andrew Zimmern, who praised its unique flavor.

When you visit Bessinger’s, you’re not just dining; you’re stepping into a family tradition passed down through generations. Still owned and operated by the Bessinger family, the restaurant radiates warmth and hospitality, making every guest feel like they are a part of the family.

This dedication to quality, tradition, and community makes Bessinger’s BBQ a beloved spot in Charleston, where locals and visitors alike can savor the rich history and authentic flavors of Southern barbecue.

7. Melvin’s BBQ

Multiple Locations:

• Mount Pleasant: 925 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
• James Island: 538 Folly Rd., Charleston, SC 29412

Hours Of Operation: Monday – Saturday – 10:30 AM – 9 PM, Closed Sundays

Melvin’s BBQ has deep roots in South Carolina’s barbecue history, tracing back to the 1930s with family patriarch Joe Bessinger. Joe passed down his secret mustard-based BBQ sauce recipe to his sons, Melvin and Thomas, who initially went into business together with Bessinger’s BBQ.

But Melvin eventually decided to branch out, opening his own restaurant across town, which became the legendary Melvin’s BBQ. This beloved spot continues the family tradition, using open-pit wood smoking to bring out the best flavors in every piece of meat.

At Melvin’s BBQ, you’ll find mouthwatering options like Texas-style brisket and burnt ends, showcasing their commitment to classic barbecue techniques and rich flavors. Of course, a visit to Melvin’s wouldn’t be complete without trying the iconic “Melvin’s Golden Secret BBQ Sauce”—the original mustard-based sauce that helped put South Carolina BBQ on the map.

Today, Melvin’s BBQ remains a Charleston favorite, where generations have gathered to enjoy authentic Southern barbecue with a dash of history and family pride in every bite.

8. King BBQ

Location: 2029 Carver Ave., North Charleston, SC 29405

Hours Of Operation: Wednesday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM

If you’re searching for a fresh spin on classic BBQ, King BBQ delivers “Chinese BBQ made with Southern smoke.” But what exactly is Chinese BBQ? Known for its focus on roasted and chopped meats, Chinese BBQ offers tender, savory cuts that are perfectly balanced with Southern-style smoking techniques.

This combination results in a fusion of flavors that you won’t find anywhere else, bringing together the best of two BBQ traditions into one unforgettable dining experience.

King BBQ is the brainchild of Shuai Wang, the Beijing-born chef behind the acclaimed Chinese restaurant Jackrabbit Filly, and his wife, Corrie Wang from Buffalo.

At King BBQ, Chef d’Cuisine, Brandon Olson takes the reins, blending his North Carolina BBQ roots with Chinese BBQ methods to create something entirely unique. His skillful mix of tradition and innovation has made King BBQ a standout, offering Charleston a deliciously unexpected twist on classic BBQ.

9. Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ

Multiple Locations:

• West Ashley: 1205 Ashley River Rd., Charleston, SC 29407
• Downtown Charleston: 126 Williman St., Charleston, SC 29403
• Mount Pleasant: 3563 Hwy, 17, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466
• Sullivan’s Island: 2209 Middle St., Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482

Hours Of Operation: All locations are open Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – Midnight

Fiery Ron’s Home Team BBQ combines classic barbecue with the comforting flavors of Southern cuisine, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Known for using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Home Team BBQ offers a menu filled with slow-cooked meats, signature sauces, and Southern-inspired sides that showcase authentic Lowcountry flavors.

Founded by Aaron Siegel and his dedicated team, Home Team BBQ creates a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, complete with live entertainment and a lively dining experience that draws in crowds for its mouthwatering dishes and relaxed vibe.

Having perfected the craft of BBQ, Home Team has expanded beyond Charleston, opening additional locations in Columbia, Greenville, and even reaching as far as Aspen, Colorado. Each restaurant stays true to its roots, bringing community-driven values and a love of great food to every location.

No visit to Charleston is complete without a stop at Home Team BBQ, where you can experience the warmth of Southern hospitality and savor some of the best BBQ in the area.

10. Poogan’s Smokehouse

Location: 188 E. Bay St., Charleston, SC 29401

Hours Of Operation: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM

Poogan’s Smokehouse brings the rich flavors and cherished Southern barbecue traditions to downtown Charleston’s heart. As the second location in the Poogan’s family—following the famous Poogan’s Porch restaurant—this smokehouse delivers a unique twist on classic Lowcountry cuisine.

Using only the highest quality ingredients, their meats are smoked low and slow to perfection. From tender pulled pork and juicy brisket to creamy mac n’ cheese and smoked chicken wings, every dish reflects a deep commitment to authenticity and flavor.

The warm welcoming dining room at Poogan’s Smokehouse provides the perfect atmosphere to relax and recharge after exploring Charleston’s historic streets. It’s more than just a BBQ joint; it’s an integral part of Charleston’s vibrant food scene, celebrating Southern culinary heritage with every plate.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Poogan’s Smokehouse offers an unforgettable barbecue experience that captures the true spirit of Southern hospitality.

11. Queology

Location: 6 N. Market St., Charleston, SC 29401

Hours Of Operation: Monday – Sunday – 11 AM – 9 PM (Temporarily Closed)

Queology, located just off the market area in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, offers the perfect spot to take a break from exploring the city and indulge in some amazing BBQ.

Known for its smoked ribs, pulled pork, and flavorful wings, this cozy restaurant provides a true taste of Southern barbecue. Pair your meal with a locally brewed beer from Palmetto Brewing Company or Westbrook Brewing Company, and you’ll experience the full flavor of Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene.

Founded by BBQ enthusiasts Matt and Russ, Queology is backed by over 25 years of experience and has grown into an award-winning barbecue team. With more than 10 accolades earned throughout the Southeast, their expertise and passion are evident in every bite.

Stop in to discover why Queology has become a must-try destination for both locals and visitors, offering an authentic and satisfying BBQ experience in the heart of historic Charleston.

12. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint

Location: 1622 Highland Ave., Charleston, SC 29412

Hours Of Operation: Sunday – Thursday – 11 AM – 9 PM and Friday – Saturday – 11 AM – 10 PM

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint is all about the art of slow-cooked, authentic barbecue, smoking their meats over local hickory wood for more than 20 hours to achieve bold, rich flavors.

Known for their signature Western Tennessee-Style Whole Hog BBQ, Martin’s also serves up barbecue classics like tender ribs, smoked wings, and tasty nachos that keep guests coming back for more. With a neighborhood-friendly atmosphere and a menu packed with delicious options, Martin’s offers a barbecue experience that feels like home.

Founder Pat Martin opened his first joint in Nashville, TN, driven by a passion for whole hog BBQ and a desire to perfect this traditional Southern style for everyone to enjoy. Since then, he’s expanded Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint into four states, sharing his love of barbecue with communities across the South.

Stop by to taste the care and dedication Pat puts into every bite, and you’ll quickly understand why this barbecue haven has become a favorite destination for BBQ lovers near and far.

13. Duke’s Barbecue

Location: 331 Folly Road, Charleston, SC 20412

Hours Of Operation: Tuesday – Saturday – 11 AM – 9 PM, Sunday 11 AM – 3 PM, and closed on Mondays

At Duke’s Barbecue, you’re guaranteed classic South Carolina BBQ at its finest, featuring their signature mustard-based sauce that defines the region’s barbecue tradition.

The restaurant’s laid-back, welcoming vibe captures the feel of a backyard gathering or a fun family party. With a full buffet setup, picnic plates, and plastic utensils, Duke’s keeps things simple so you can focus on enjoying the incredible flavors of their slow-cooked meats and Southern sides.

Duke’s is a family-based restaurant that hands down their recipes to each new restaurant. From their tender pulled pork to their variety of tangy mustard-based sauces, every dish delivers the authentic taste of South Carolina barbecue.

It’s the perfect spot to visit after a day at the beach—just stop in, fill up, and savor the true essence of Southern comfort food.

What Barbecue Is South Carolina Known For?

South Carolina barbecue is celebrated for its time-honored tradition of Whole Hog Barbecue, where the entire pig is cooked low and slow over hardwood coals. This method infuses the meat with rich, smoky flavors, resulting in tender, juicy pork that practically melts in your mouth.

Unlike barbecue styles that emphasize beef, South Carolina’s barbecue culture favors pulled pork, making it the centerpiece of any traditional BBQ feast. The process is meticulous and steeped in history, reflecting the pride and dedication of pitmasters across the state.

What sets South Carolina barbecue apart is not just the cooking style but the flavor profiles that accompany it. Mustard-based sauces, often called “Carolina Gold,” are a hallmark of the region, adding a tangy, slightly sweet kick to the succulent pulled pork.

Whether enjoyed at a local barbecue joint or a backyard gathering, South Carolina barbecue offers an authentic taste of the South, with Whole Hog Barbecue standing as a proud and flavorful tradition.

How To Get To The Best BBQ Restaurants In Charleston SC

Charleston is an easy city to get around, especially if you are staying downtown and most of your activities are downtown as well. As you can see though, the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC are spread all over the place for you to visit. I suggest using these options to try as many as possible.

• Walking – Charleston is a very walkable city, especially the entire downtown area. The peninsula is not too large, so walking is easy.
• Rideshare – Rideshare is a major part of Charleston with lots of rides available.
• Taxis – Charleston has plenty of taxi options available including Charleston Green Taxi.
• Rickshaw – Downtown Charleston will have a lot of rickshaws available to use. They will get you to just about everywhere in the downtown Charleston area.
• Bikes – The city of Charleston also has invested in bikes that you can rent around the city. It is a great way to get around.

Where To Stay In Charleston

Charleston has many great hotel options for staying in while visiting. You can find the perfect hotel for your stay in many areas.

There are plenty of great hotel options that you can find from boutiques to ones with amazing dining options. Charleston has everything you need to find the perfect room for all that you need.

To find the perfect hotel for you and your location, check out my post below.

Save Money And Get Your Tour Pass Now

If you are planning on being in Charleston for multiple days and looking to do a lot of tours, take a look at the tours included in the Charleston Tour Pass. I have found that you can save money if you are planning on taking the tours provided.

Charleston Tour Pass has over 45 tours in its package with multi-day options. Save some money and purchase your Charleston Tour Pass.

Get Charleston Bag Valet

Don’t want to haul your luggage all around Charleston while waiting for your flight to leave or for your hotel to be ready? Good News! Charleston Bag Valet will help you out with that. As they say, you explore, they store.

Charleston Bag Valet will pick up your bags curbside anywhere in Charleston and secure each item with a customizable tamper-proof lock. They will store your bags in an insured and secured climate-controlled environment while you explore. When you are ready, they will deliver your bags to you where you want them and when you want them. You can even have them delivered to the airport for your ease.

Best BBQ Restaurants In Charleston SC: In Conclusion

Charleston is a city that knows how to do barbecue right, and its vibrant food scene is a testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. From Whole Hog Barbecue cooked low and slow over hardwood coals to innovative fusions like Chinese BBQ with Southern smoke, the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC offer something for every palate.

Whether you’re savoring mustard-based sauces at legendary spots like Melvin’s or Duke’s or indulging in mouthwatering brisket and ribs at Lewis Barbecue or Rodney Scott’s BBQ, Charleston’s BBQ joints provide unforgettable flavors that showcase a deep passion for the craft.

No visit to the Holy City is complete without sampling the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston. These restaurants, many founded by dedicated pitmasters and passionate families, are more than just places to eat—they’re where traditions are kept alive and community comes together over a shared love of great food.

So, whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to explore Charleston’s barbecue scene and discover why these spots are celebrated as the best BBQ restaurants in Charleston SC.

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