For the ultimate BBQ experience in the state, search no more! Our meticulously curated list highlights the top-rated locations in Charlotte and North Carolina, ensuring an unparalleled dining experience. It’s essential to rely on the advice of the locals who have a vast understanding of the region. Prepare yourself to unearth the clandestine treasures that these locations have to offer. From beloved local gems to the recently discovered ten best BBQ restaurants in Charlotte, our guide guarantees a delectable journey through the heart of North Carolina’s BBQ culture.
Our focus primarily revolves around the nearby Charlotte joints, but we couldn’t resist the allure of including a few timeless favorites from across the state. The result? A comprehensive guide that promises the ultimate indulgence in the mouthwatering taste of North Carolina-style smoked barbecue. Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure that celebrates the essence of Southern cuisine with our guide as your companion. Trust us to lead you to the pinnacle of BBQ enjoyment, embracing the rich flavors and traditions that make North Carolina a true BBQ haven.
List of Best BBQ Restaurants in Charlotte
Here is a list of the best barbecue restaurants in Charlotte nearby.
- Sweet Lew’s BBQ
- Big Tiny’s BBQ
- Bobbee O’s BBQ
- Midwood Smokehouse
- Jon G’s Barbecue
- Mac’s Speed Shop
- The Improper Pig
- Blue’s Smokehouse
- Bar-B-Q King
- McKoy’s Smokehouse and Saloon
Sweet Lew’s BBQ
Sweet Lew’s, a converted gas station smokehouse in Belmont. Slow-smoked over hickory, pecan, and peach woods, it’s a taste of classic Southern BBQ. Founded by Lewis Donald and Laura Furman Grice, enjoy a simple menu of meats, sides, and more. Join pitmaster Lewis Donald at the Carolina BBQ Festival for a day of whole-hog barbecue, supporting local charities. way to sample local barbecue while also benefiting local and national charities.
Neighborhood: Belmont, Charlotte
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No-contact delivery
Address: 923 Belmont Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205, USA
Big Tiny’s BBQ
Owners John and Elizabeth Maddox took their Texas roots and love of barbecue with them when they relocated to Mooresville. After 25 years on the track, John opted to hang up his helmet and work as a pitmaster, specializing in mesquite-style smoked meats. Big Tiny’s, named after their late dog Tiny opened in downtown Mooresville in 2016 and serves what has been labeled “dog gone good BBQ.”
Neighborhood: Mooresville
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · Delivery
Address: 179 N Main St, Mooresville, NC 28115, United States
Bobbee O’s BBQ
Bob Roberts enjoyed helping his mother in the kitchen as a child and continued to develop his cooking skills as an adult. He specialized in barbecue and homemade sauces, which he perfected over time. Bobbee O’s BBQ offers a variety of delicious dishes, but pulled pork is the most popular due to its flavorful sauce. The restaurant proudly boasts the motto, “It’s all in the sauce!”
Neighborhood: North Charlotte
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No-contact delivery
Address: 9401 Statesville Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269, USA
Midwood Smokehouse
Aside from other favorites, barbecue devotees flock to this rapidly expanding barbecue powerhouse to worship at the altar of smoked pork brisket, St. Louis-style pork ribs, snappy sausages, and barbecue-seasoned salmon. The chef at the establishment isn’t afraid to experiment; try the queso barbecue tacos, a new take on a usual Mexican meal.
Neighborhood: Plaza Midwood, Montford, Huntersville, and Ballantyne
Service options: Delivery and pickup
Address: Ballantyne. 12410 Johnston Rd. Charlotte, NC
Jon G’s Barbecue
Jon G’s Barbecue is a restaurant in Charlotte, North Carolina, offering gastronomic visions and well-maintained grills. The restaurant’s warmth and dedication to creating memorable flavors make guests feel valued. The menu includes flawless smoked brisket slices, tart sauces, and moments spent with loved ones. Jon G’s is a celebration of tradition, passion, and the delight of eating together.
Neighborhood: Peachland
Service options: Dine-in · Takeaway · No delivery
Address: 116 Glenn Falls St, Peachland, NC 28133, USA
Mac’s Speed Shop
This place is an unexpected gem, where you can enjoy bikes, beer, and barbecue. Bring your furry friend, family, or Harley (or all of the above!) and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere filled with live music and a full bar. Choose from a variety of shareable bites like nachos and fried pickles, and indulge in barbecue favorites like pulled pork and smoked chicken.
For those with a bigger appetite, take on the massive five-pound sandwich, piled high with pork, brisket, hamburgers, bacon, queso blanco, fried pickles, and a housemade hot sauce. Finish it all and it’s on the house.
Neighborhood: South End, Steele Creek, Matthews, Cornelius, and Concord
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No-contact delivery
Address: 2414 Sandy Porter Rd, Charlotte, NC 28273, United States
The Improper Pig
The Improper Pig is a restaurant that celebrates fusion BBQ and encourages guests to explore different types of barbecue. The dishes combine traditional Carolina-style pork and St. Louis-style ribs with modern twists like Pork Rolls (Southern-style egg rolls), Chow Bao Sliders with barbecue meat, Asian slaw, and Hoisin sauce, and the No Pig sandwich – a vegetarian option made with hickory wood-grilled portobello mushroom.d portobello mushroom.d portobello mushroom.d portobello mushroom.
Neighborhood: Cotswold
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Address: 9855 Sandy Rock Pl A, Charlotte, NC 28277, United States
Bar-B-Q King
Since 1959, Bar-B-King, a West Charlotte-based drive-in, has been a beloved spot for barbeque enthusiasts. With daily specials like Bar-B-Q Day, the restaurant offers traditional Trays, Chicken, coleslaw, French fries, and dinner rolls. Experience the timeless thrill of the best BBQ King.
Neighborhood: Ashley Park
Service options: Dine-in · Drive-through · No delivery
Address: 2900 Wilkinson Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States
Blue Smokehouse
The staples of barbecue, such as brisket, pulled pig, and wings, are served at the more recent Blue Smokehouse restaurant. A brisket burger is also available at the restaurant; The dish consists of sliced brisket accompanied by lettuce, tomatoes, pickled red onions, and Blue’s Special Barbecue Sauce. Serve your entrée with baked mac and cheese, baked beans with smoked brisket, or collard greens with smoked pork.
Neighborhood: Fort Mill
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · Delivery
Address: 1500 Fort Mill Pkwy #111, Fort Mill, SC 29715, United States
McKoy’s Smokehouse and Saloon
McKoy’s Smokehouse & Saloon is a restaurant owned by a family that pays tribute to their ancestors. Co-owners Namon Register, Ryan, and Jim Register named the restaurant after their grandfather and take pride in its name. The restaurant is famous for its delicious St. Louis-style ribs, smokehouse wings, and other barbecue favorites. Apart from the tasty food, the warm and friendly service of the restaurant makes you feel like you’re dining in the comfort of McKoy’s home.
Neighborhood: LoSo
Service options: Dine-in · Kerbside pickup · No delivery
Address: 4630 Old Pineville Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217, United States
