Famed for its rich history and culture, Columbia is one of the loveliest destinations to visit in South Carolina. It brims with historic neighborhoods, world-class museums, stunning parks, and a whole lot of exciting outdoor thrills. There is so much in this vibrant city that is waiting for you to uncover and explore. Take a stroll along the breathtaking Riverfront Park, make a quick stop at South Carolina Military Museum, and get personal with the animals in Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. If you find yourself getting tired after a long day of exploration and fun, there are tons of food options in Columbia to try. For some recommendations, check out our list below of the top BBQ joints in Columbia, South Carolina, for a tasty trip.
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1. Little Pigs Barbecue
Experience the best of South Carolina by visiting one of its famous barbecue joints, Little Pigs Barbecue. This restaurant offers dine-in, take outs and deliveries. Some of the dishes to try aside from its tasty grilled meats are macaroni & cheese, collards, beans, and desserts. If you’re craving a tender and juicy dish, Little Pigs Barbecue’s ribs, brisket, and pork chops are your options. Apart from that, you can choose your style from tomato-based and mustard-based to vinegar-pepper. The best part? It offers a buffet where you can indulge as much as you want.
Little Pigs Barbecue
Address: 4927 Alpine Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, United States
Website: Little Pigs Barbecue
Opening hours: Wed: 11am - 2pm; Thu - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 3pm
2. Midwood Smokehouse
With a warm and inviting ambiance, it’s no wonder Midwood Smokehouse is a hit with customers and diners. Boasting hanging lights and wood furnishing, everything about this barbecue restaurant will remind you of those dining places in the 90s. Its location is perfect for those who are not good at navigating. It is easy to locate in the downtown area. When it comes to the menu, it offers an extensive list of healthy meals, barbecue dishes, and pick-up food. Some of the food to try are the brisket with fries on the side, braised ribs with a sweet glaze, and burgers.
Midwood Smokehouse
Address: 1401 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205, United States
Website: Midwood Smokehouse
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 11am - 9pm; Thu: 11am - 8pm; Sat: 11am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Fri)
3. Big Boys Original Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
For those craving that smoked beef brisket sandwich, there’s no better place than Big Boys Original Smokehouse Bar-B-Que. For only less than 10 USD, you’ll be able to satisfy your cravings for that juicy burger with fries on the side. Apart from that, there are also rice meals available with pork, chicken, and beef as your choices. The flavored wings are also something you shouldn’t miss. When it comes to dessert and drinks, you’ll also have plenty of options. Make sure to try its delicious and moist Butter Pecan Cake that will make your taste buds burst with flavor.
Big Boys Original Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Address: 8604 Farrow Rd A, Columbia, SC 29203, United States
Website: Big Boys Original Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
Opening hours: Wed - Thu: 11am - 6pm; Sat: 11am - 6pm; Sun: 1pm - 6pm (closed on Mon, Tue & Fri)
4. The Southern Belly BBQ - Harden St.
Known for its well-crafted barbecue sandwiches, Southern Belly BBQ has been the local favorite since its establishment. It’s a popular hangout spot for university students due to its location downtown, where the food scene is found. Everything about this barbecue house is something to like, including its pristine interior and modern furnishings. The staff is also friendly and easy to converse with, even if you have concerns. When it comes to dining and food, everything is excellent. There’s also cold-brewed beer to match your barbecue.
The Southern Belly BBQ - Harden St.
Address:819 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205, United States
Website: The Southern Belly BBQ - Harden St.
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
5. Doc's BBQ and Southern Buffet
Aiming to serve the best southern cuisines at a reasonable price, Doc’s Barbecue and Southern Buffet is one of the barbecue restaurants in South Carolina you shouldn’t miss. Offering you tender cooked meat dripping with sweet sauces, all ingredients used are of quality and are fresh. From the outside, its exterior might look a lot like a two-story hotel; the interior is more pleasant. Servers are very accommodating, making your experience lovely and fun. Some of the dishes to try are pork, ribs, catfish nuggets, and chicken dishes.
Doc's BBQ and Southern Buffet
Address: 1601 Shop Rd, Columbia, SC 29201, United States
Website: Doc’s BBQ and Southern Buffet
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11am - 2:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
6. Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food
Indulge in the best barbecue with your furry friends in Big Bull’s Bang'n BBQ & Southern Comfort Food. Established in the year 2013, this restaurant started as a stall until it became successful enough to open its location. Some of the must-try dishes at this barbecue house are fried turkey wings, smoked chicken, smothered pork chops with collard greens and baked beans. If you don’t fancy going out but you’re craving some meaty food, Big Bulls Bang'n BBQ & Southern Comfort Food also delivers.
Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food
Address: 2614 HardScrabble Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, United States
Website: Big Bull’s Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food
Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 11am - 2:30pm, 5pm - 8pm; Sat: 12pm - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
7. The Pot Smoker BBQ
If you want to eat someplace where there is satisfying service, an excellent ambiance, and, of course, tasty food, The Pot Smoker BBQ is the place to go. All the food served in this restaurant is of healthy portions, which you won’t finish in just one sitting. Every dish on the menu is worth every penny you are going to spend. Ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork are some of the tasty barbecues you have to try when you visit. Also, if you’re a big fan of burgers with meaty fillings, The Pot Smoker BBQ never disappoints.
The Pot Smoker BBQ
Address: 931-A Senate St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States
Website: The Pot Smoker BBQ
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Sat: 11am - 9pm (closed on Fri & Sun)
8. Big T's Bar-B-Que
If you are a foodie at heart, make sure to bring your appetite with you when you visit one of the loveliest barbecue houses in South Carolina- Big T’s Bar-B-Que. This superb American restaurant offers customers hearty met portions that are sure to satisfy every guest that will walk through its doors. For high-quality and juicy meat, Big T’s Bar-B-Que is the place to go. Its slow cooking process makes it barbecue tender and tasty. For starters, you can order spicy chili and quesadilla. Appetizing meals include rubbed prime rib, Kentucky lamb stew, and sliced brisket.
Big T's Bar-B-Que
Address: 7535 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, United States
Website: Big T’s Bar-B-Que
Opening hours: 11am - 9pm (daily)
9. Palmetto Pig
Known as one of the top destinations in South Carolina when it comes to smoked barbecues, Palmetto Pig is a dining place where you can enjoy a hefty plate of world-famous barbecue in town. With its location being downtown, you will find it easy to visit, especially if you’re after full meals, snacks, or just a quick bite. It offers a dining experience in a relaxed and warm ambiance that most customers have come to love. Indulge in pulled pork covered with own-made sauces, try its famous fried and barbecued chicken, and even pair them with delicious banana pudding.
Palmetto Pig
Address: 530 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29201, United States
Website: Palmetto Pig
Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 11am - 2:30pm; Thu - Sat: 11am - 9pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
10. Home Team BBQ
Home Team BBQ serves not only mouthwatering barbecue but also refreshing drinks and tasty snacks. It has five branches in South Carolina, with a newly established one on Harden St in Columbia. One of the lovely things about this restaurant is its rustic interior, where vintage photographs and band posters are on the walls. It is spacious and well-ventilated. You won’t have to worry about getting too hot. Celebrations are ideal here, especially if you want a casual and intimate party. Some of the best dishes are fried ribs with mac n cheese on the side, burgers, and tacos.
Home Team BBQ
Address: 700 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205, United States
Website: Home Team BBQ
Opening hours: 11am - 10pm (daily)
An unforgettable holiday
If you want the whole package, you can never go wrong by choosing Columbia as your next travel destination. Whether you’re after a scenic drive, a nature trip, or a food trip, Columbia has it all. Make your holiday in the city an unforgettable one by trying out some of our recommended BBQ joints.
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