Who doesn’t love barbecue? From smoky meats to tangy sauces and all the must-have Southern sides, it’s a classic. And Charleston knows how to do it right.
I’ve lived in Charleston my whole life, and I’ve tasted my way through just about every BBQ joint in the area.
Whether you’re craving pulled pork, ribs, or vinegar-based sauce, there’s no shortage of standout spots. But with so many options, where should you go if only visiting Charleston for a couple days?
I’m sharing the best BBQ in Charleston, SC plus what style to expect at each. Yep, BBQ isn’t one-size-fits-all. Each region does it a little differently, and I’ll help you find your favorite.
Best BBQ in Charleston, SC
All of the best Charleston barbecue restaurants that you HAVE to try on your next trip. Actually, you might need to make two trips ;).
Lewis Barbecue
464 N Nassau Street | Texas Style Smoked Meats
John Lewis of Lewis Barbecue is famous for his Texas-style smoked meats, including melt-in-your-mouth brisket and his signature hot guts sausage.
Order by the pound from the line, then choose from a variety of Southern sides to complete your platter. I’m a huge fan of their green chili corn pudding, pinto beans, and especially the cheese dip! If you’d rather skip the line, head to the bar for a limited menu with sandwiches, sides, and starters.
They offer indoor seating, plus a screened porch with a bar, or a spacious outdoor area with picnic tables, making it a great spot for groups and very family-friendly.
Be sure to try the brisket—it’s so popular they run out fast, so go early! I’m also a big fan of the turkey, especially on a sandwich. You really can’t go wrong with anything here.
One thing’s for sure: after eating here, you might want to plan for a nap!
Rodney Scott’s BBQ
1101 King Street | South Carolina BBQ
Rodney Scott is a Charleston legend, known worldwide after his episode on Netflix’s Chef’s Table and his James Beard Award for Best Chef! What started as a family business in Hemingway, SC, has grown into a successful chain with multiple locations across the South—and even a cookbook.
At Rodney Scott’s, you’ll find some of the best South Carolina-style pulled pork, along with chicken tenders and catfish. Don’t miss the mac ‘n cheese—it is seriously so good and feels like the ultimate comfort food!
They offer indoor seating, a covered outdoor section with picnic tables, and even a drive-thru for convenience.
It’s easily one of the top BBQ spots in Charleston, so be sure to add it to your itinerary. And make sure to watch his Chef’s Table episode before you go for a deeper dive into his story and style!
Home Team BBQ
126 Williman Street and 2209 Middle Street | Southern Barbecue & More
Home Team BBQ has been a Charleston staple since 2006, starting on Sullivan’s Island and now expanding to downtown and other locations across the state (and even Aspen!).
What I love about Home Team is the variety—each table is stocked with six different sauces, so you can dress your own ‘cue just the way you like it. Besides BBQ, they offer tacos, burritos, burgers, salads, and amazing BBQ sliders.
Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly with the option to substitute black beans on almost anything from salad to tacos. And don’t skip the nachos—they’re a must!
It’s also a local favorite for their infamous “Game Changer” cocktail, which is similar to a painkiller. I’m also all about their frozen Irish coffee—definitely worth trying.
I’m a huge fan of the original Sullivan’s Island location, but the downtown spot is spacious and perfect for groups and families. They even have a big chalkboard outside that kids love to color on.
Saturdays during football season can get pretty wild, though. If Georgia or Clemson is playing, it’s definitely a lively scene and you might think twice if you aren’t up for it.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
1622 Highland Drive | Tennessee Style Whole Hog BBQ
Located just outside of Charleston on James Island, Martin’s BBQ is the place to go for Tennessee-style whole hog barbecue. They smoke the meat every morning at 5 a.m. for over 20 hours using hickory wood, resulting in perfectly tender, flavorful barbecue. The location is great, with indoor seating and a family-friendly outdoor patio.
In addition to BBQ, they serve up other favorites like wings, fried chicken, tacos, and a variety of sides. I was pleasantly surprised by how good the pulled pork and wings were the first time I tried them!
Swig & Swine
1217 Savannah Highway | House Smoke Meats, Craft Beer & Bourbon
I really like Swig & Swine. They cater a lot of events around town so there’s always an opportunity to have some!
With locations in Summerville, West Ashley, and Mount Pleasant, it’s easy to enjoy their BBQ no matter where you are.
Head chef Anthony Dibernardo is no stranger to the kitchen—he’s worked at some of Charleston’s top restaurants, including Blossom, Kiawah Island Resort, and Rita’s. He eventually made the move to focus on barbecue, and the rest is history.
Melvin’s Legendary BBQ
538 Folly Road or 925 Houston Northcutt Boulevard | Ribs and Southern Fare
Melvin’s has been a Charleston favorite for as long as I can remember, and we ate here all the time growing up. This spot is a classic example of South Carolina BBQ, known for its rich history dating back to 1939. The highlight is their incredible mustard-based sauce, which gives their barbecue a distinct, tangy flavor that’s hard to beat.
When you visit, you have to try the pulled pork sandwich. It’s a must. Pair it with a side of their thick, crispy French fries and definitely start with one of their giant onion rings. They’re legendary! And to wrap up the meal, don’t skip the banana pudding. It’s the perfect sweet ending to an unforgettable BBQ experience.
Bessinger’s
1602 Savannah Highway | Carolina Style Meats
Bessinger’s is part of the same family as Melvin’s known for their mustard-based sauces. It’s a family-run Charleston barbecue restaurant that has been around for nearly 100 years.
The restaurant is very family-friendly, offering an extensive kids’ menu with chicken fingers, burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches.
If you love the sauce, you can even buy it to take home!
Jim ‘N Nicks Bar-B-Q
4964 Centre Pointe Drive | Slow Cooked Alabama Style BBQ (and amazing cheese biscuits)
Go to Jim ‘N Nicks for the barbecue and stay for the cheese biscuits. These biscuits are famous in Charleston – seriously they are divine! Soft, buttery biscuits with the cheese baked right inside.
Jim ‘N Nicks serves Alabama style barbecue slow-smoked by their pit masters for 12 hours. They also have great salad options and tons of sides from collard greens to chili.
Now good luck deciding which of these Charleston barbecue restaurants to try during your visit! Also check out my other restaurant guides for Charleston.
Is Charleston known for barbecue?
Absolutely! Charleston is home to a variety of barbecue spots, showcasing styles from all over the South—think the Carolinas, Texas, Alabama, and Tennessee. Local pitmasters get creative, slow-smoking meats to perfection and pairing them with classic Southern sides like corn on the cob, collard greens, mac n’ cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, and more. And of course, don’t forget a glass of sweet tea to complete the meal!
What BBQ is South Carolina known for?
South Carolina is famous for its unique mustard-based barbecue sauce, adding a tangy twist to the smoky goodness. The state’s BBQ tradition typically features slow-cooked whole hogs, smoked over coals for 12+ hours until the meat is so tender it practically falls apart. Add in some dry rub, and you’ve got a true South Carolina classic.
The Wrap Up: Best Barbecue Restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina
When it comes to BBQ in Charleston, you’re truly spoiled for choice. From classic South Carolina mustard-based sauces to unique takes on smoked meats, the best barbecue restaurants in Charleston offer something for every palate.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to explore these iconic spots and experience the flavors that have made Charleston a top destination for BBQ lovers. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
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