clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile
A plate of barbecue from Rodney Scott’s BBQ.
A plate of barbecue from Rodney Scott’s BBQ.
Leslie McKellar

6 Standout Barbecue Spots in Charleston

Ribs, brisket, and pulled pork

View as Map
A plate of barbecue from Rodney Scott’s BBQ.
| Leslie McKellar

There's no denying the popularity of barbecue in South Carolina, but it wasn't until the past few years that Charleston saw an explosion in restaurants serving smoked meats. Now there are plenty of establishments to quell cravings, whether that be for pulled pork, flame-kissed chicken, or fatty brisket.

Read More
Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process.

Swig & Swine

Copy Link

Swig & Swine has a top-notch selection of bourbons, beer, and barbecue in all three of its locations. Most folks hit up this restaurant for the great variety of options available on the menu. Pulled pork, wings, and sausages are just a few of the smoked varieties offered.

Mac n cheese, beans, and slaw.
Sides and meats at Swig & Swine.
Swig & Swine

Home Team BBQ

Copy Link

Home Team BBQ has multiple locations for maximum smoked meat consumption. The dry-rubbed wings with Alabama white sauce are addictive, as are the frozen boozy Gamechanger cocktails. The daily specials are always a hit, like juicy Lucy burgers or giant pastrami sandwiches.

A large tray of smoked meats.
A large tray of smoked meats from Home Team BBQ.
Home Team

Dukes Barbecue

Copy Link

If an all-you-can-eat buffet of smoky meats and Southern favorites sounds appealing, head to Dukes Barbecue on James Island. Customers will regularly find pulled pork, fried chicken, collards, and hash on the menu.

Rodney Scott's BBQ

Copy Link

When James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Rodney Scott opened his whole hog barbecue restaurant in North Central, Charleston reached full pulled pork frenzy. Lines are out the door every day for the smokey delights that made Scott famous in Hemingway, South Carolina. The ribeye sandwich is often overlooked but should be tried at least once.

Pulled pork on a red tray.
Whole hog barbecue is a must-order at Rodney Scott’s.
Bill Addison

Lewis Barbecue

Copy Link

Pitmaster John Lewis brought brisket perfection to Charleston by way of Austin, and it's been a hit since day one. Don't miss the fatty brisket, green chili corn pudding, or the super-moist turkey slices. Bring friends to help with the leftovers. If the line is long, grab a margarita from the bar first.

A platter of brisket, beans, and ribs.
Brisket is the star at Lewis Barbecue.
Bill Addison

Melvin's Legendary Barbecue

Copy Link

Melvin’s has served smoked meats to the Charleston community for decades. It is known for its family-friendly establishments and speedy service. Try a pulled pork plate with mustard sauce, onion rings, or the famous burger while on the go.

Loading comments...

Swig & Swine

Swig & Swine has a top-notch selection of bourbons, beer, and barbecue in all three of its locations. Most folks hit up this restaurant for the great variety of options available on the menu. Pulled pork, wings, and sausages are just a few of the smoked varieties offered.

Mac n cheese, beans, and slaw.
Sides and meats at Swig & Swine.
Swig & Swine

Home Team BBQ

Home Team BBQ has multiple locations for maximum smoked meat consumption. The dry-rubbed wings with Alabama white sauce are addictive, as are the frozen boozy Gamechanger cocktails. The daily specials are always a hit, like juicy Lucy burgers or giant pastrami sandwiches.

A large tray of smoked meats.
A large tray of smoked meats from Home Team BBQ.
Home Team

Dukes Barbecue

If an all-you-can-eat buffet of smoky meats and Southern favorites sounds appealing, head to Dukes Barbecue on James Island. Customers will regularly find pulled pork, fried chicken, collards, and hash on the menu.

Rodney Scott's BBQ

When James Beard Award-winning pitmaster Rodney Scott opened his whole hog barbecue restaurant in North Central, Charleston reached full pulled pork frenzy. Lines are out the door every day for the smokey delights that made Scott famous in Hemingway, South Carolina. The ribeye sandwich is often overlooked but should be tried at least once.

Pulled pork on a red tray.
Whole hog barbecue is a must-order at Rodney Scott’s.
Bill Addison

Lewis Barbecue

Pitmaster John Lewis brought brisket perfection to Charleston by way of Austin, and it's been a hit since day one. Don't miss the fatty brisket, green chili corn pudding, or the super-moist turkey slices. Bring friends to help with the leftovers. If the line is long, grab a margarita from the bar first.

A platter of brisket, beans, and ribs.
Brisket is the star at Lewis Barbecue.
Bill Addison

Melvin's Legendary Barbecue

Melvin’s has served smoked meats to the Charleston community for decades. It is known for its family-friendly establishments and speedy service. Try a pulled pork plate with mustard sauce, onion rings, or the famous burger while on the go.

Related Maps