There’s something magnetic about the scent of barbecue drifting along Ocean Boulevard. Myrtle Beach doesn’t just do BBQ. It celebrates it, with smokey traditions and bold local twists you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re a slow-cooked brisket devotee or a pulled chicken aficionado, the Grand Strand has a hot spot to match your craving. I remember a night lost in a wood-paneled rib joint, sauce on my fingers and that low buzz of happy locals swirling around—proof that here, barbecue is more than a meal; it’s part of the experience.
Finding the best BBQ in Myrtle Beach isn’t just about which joint piles the highest plate. It’s about who gets the smoke right, honors their sides, and makes you want to linger long after the last bite. Lucky for you, I’ve sharpened my focus—and my appetite—on the top cuts across town. Whether you want a family feast, a cozy spot near the surf, or a classic hit of Carolina flavor, this guide will lead you straight to the good stuff. Ready to discover your next favorite? Let’s dig in.
1. Swig & Swine Myrtle Beach
At Swig & Swine Myrtle Beach, the aroma of hardwood smoke hits you well before you spot the sign. The vibe is relaxed, with old-school BBQ touches and friendly faces quick to share their favorites. My first visit left me hooked after a bite of their tender smoked chicken—juicy, lightly charred, and seasoned just right.
What truly sets Swig & Swine apart is their steady hand with classics. Their pulled turkey and brisket are must-tries, proof that simple techniques, done well, always win. If you’re all about sides, don’t skip the collard greens and cornbread.
This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s one to settle in, take your time, and let each bite remind you why barbecue in Myrtle Beach is worth talking about.
2. Simply Southern Smokehouse
If you want Myrtle Beach BBQ with a side of true Southern charm, Simply Southern Smokehouse delivers. The buffet here is bustling, filled with families and locals who know their way around slow-cooked favorites. My plate was a patchwork of colors and flavors, but it was the smoked chicken and ribs that stood out—tender, full of flavor, and clearly cooked with patience.
The singing servers keep things lively while you load up on sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. Everything is fresh and made from scratch, echoing the tradition of home-style Southern cooking.
This spot feels less like a typical restaurant and more like a family reunion. Each bite is hearty, simple, and unmistakably Southern.
3. Carolina Roadhouse
Carolina Roadhouse isn’t shy about making an impression. With palm trees indoors and an upbeat energy, this spot feels like a nonstop summer party—even when it’s raining outside. The menu stretches well beyond BBQ, but the barbecue chicken keeps regulars coming back.
I remember pulling apart a plate of their smoked chicken, the sauce sticky but not overpowering, every bite smoky and satisfying. Sides here punch above their weight, especially the baked beans and coleslaw; it’s the kind of spread you’d brag about after a Myrtle Beach beach day.
If you want a break from routine, the lively crowd and generous plates make Carolina Roadhouse worthy of its loyal following.
4. Wahlburgers
Wahlburgers brings a celebrity twist to hearty, comfort food in Myrtle Beach. The vibe is bright, modern, and always buzzing with fans of both burgers and the famous family name. My go-to is the BBQ chicken sandwich—juicy, tangy, and stacked high, it’s a nod to the flavors of classic barbecue, delivered with a fresh spin.
Here, the kitchen knows how to balance smokiness and sweetness. The crispy onion rings make an excellent side, pairing well with everything on the menu. Service is sharp, and there’s a clear attention to simple, quality ingredients.
If you want a spot where BBQ gets a fast-casual update without losing its soul, Wahlburgers is your move.
5. Little Pigs Bar-B-Q
Little Pigs Bar-B-Q is one of those places that feels like it’s been a neighborhood secret for years. With its laid-back setup and steady crowd of locals, you know the food does the talking here. My visit started with the pulled turkey plate—moist, smoky, and served with their signature barbecue sauce. Each bite tasted like something straight from a backyard cookout.
What separates Little Pigs is their devotion to simplicity. The smoked chicken is always juicy, cooked low and slow, and their sides—think baked beans and coleslaw—actually taste homemade.
When you’re craving barbecue that’s unpretentious but packed with flavor, Little Pigs is a sure bet. It’s the kind of spot you’ll want to visit again.
6. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit sets the stage with a whiff of hickory smoke and rows of savory offerings. It’s all about consistency here—every visit feels like coming back to a dependable classic. The smoked chicken is what convinced me this spot deserves a spot on any Myrtle Beach BBQ list. It’s pulled straight from the pit, tender with a genuine smoky note.
There’s an old-school approach to the menu, but with Texas flair. Try the brisket sandwich or their classic turkey plate. The sides—like baked potato casserole and coleslaw—round it all out, stick-to-your-ribs style.
If you want barbecue done right and served up quickly, Dickey’s delivers every time with familiar comfort and steady quality.
7. Sweet Carolina’s
Sweet Carolina’s is the kind of place where barbecue comes with a hefty serving of Southern hospitality. The lively spot at Broadway at the Beach always feels special, thanks to its aroma of slow-cooked meat and a crowd that never seems to thin. My first plate here was piled with pulled chicken—it was smoky, juicy, and topped with a tangy house sauce worth coming back for.
The menu features a strong lineup, but the smoked turkey and classic sides like macaroni and cheese are favorites among regulars. The portions are generous, inviting guests to linger and soak in the setting.
If you want an easygoing spot that lets Myrtle Beach’s love of barbecue shine, Sweet Carolina’s fits the bill.
8. Little Pigs BBQ
Little Pigs BBQ on Dick Pond Road keeps things low-key but never cuts corners on flavor. The straightforward setup hides a kitchen that turns out the kind of barbecue you’d expect from a local legend. I dropped in for lunch and left with a new appreciation for their smoked chicken plate: juicy, perfectly seasoned, and finished with a house sauce that strikes the right balance between sweet and tangy.
It’s the small touches that set this spot apart. The sides, especially the baked beans, are made in-house and bring real comfort to the table. Portions are generous but not overwhelming.
For classic Myrtle Beach barbecue that gets straight to the point, Little Pigs BBQ deserves a spot on your radar.
9. Rooster’s Restaurant & Bar
Rooster’s Restaurant & Bar puts the spotlight on chicken and does it with style. The Broadway at the Beach location is lively, modern, and tailored for fans of classic Southern flavors. My favorite memory here? Digging into their smoked half-chicken, served with a crisp char and a smoky aroma that lingers just right.
What makes Rooster’s unique is their dedication to chicken in all its forms, from barbecue platters to spicy signature sandwiches. The chicken wings—smoked and slathered in house sauce—are another crowd-pleaser you can’t skip.
Sides like coleslaw and seasoned fries keep things comforting. When you’re craving top-notch barbecue chicken in the heart of Myrtle Beach, Rooster’s is hard to beat.
10. Big D’s Bar-B-Que Barn Inc
(843) 236-4666Call
Big D’s Bar-B-Que Barn Inc has the unmistakable charm of a local favorite, sitting just below the radar but always buzzing with hungry regulars. It’s the sort of spot you might hear about from a friend before you find it yourself. My visit started with their pulled chicken platter, served piping hot and reliably moist, with smoke threading through every bite.
Here, the focus is on barbecue done the traditional way—slow-cooked, never rushed. Their smoked turkey also deserves a shout, especially when paired with their tangy, house-made sauce and a helping of collard greens.
Big D’s doesn’t go in for frills, but it nails the small-town barbecue atmosphere and delivers classic Carolina flavor. It’s a true Myrtle Beach hidden gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What BBQ styles can I find in Myrtle Beach?
You’ll find a mix of Southern barbecue traditions in Myrtle Beach, with a special focus on Carolina-style. Most spots offer smoked chicken, turkey, beef brisket, and signature sides like coleslaw and baked beans. Sauces range from tangy vinegar-based to sweet and smoky, depending on the restaurant.
Are there family-friendly BBQ restaurants in Myrtle Beach?
Yes, many BBQ spots in Myrtle Beach are great for families. Places like Simply Southern Smokehouse and Dickey’s Barbecue Pit are especially accommodating, with relaxed vibes and menus that appeal to all ages.
Do BBQ restaurants in Myrtle Beach offer vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Most BBQ joints offer a handful of vegetarian sides—think collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and salads. Several restaurants, such as Sweet Carolina’s and Rooster’s Restaurant & Bar, also list gluten-free options.
Can you get takeout or delivery from BBQ restaurants in Myrtle Beach?
Absolutely. Almost all the top spots, including Swig & Swine and Little Pigs, offer takeout and many partner with delivery apps for convenient service.
What’s a must-try BBQ dish in Myrtle Beach?
Smoked chicken and pulled turkey show up on most menus and are top picks for tasting local flavor. Pair your choice with classic sides like baked beans or coleslaw for the full Carolina BBQ experience.
Are any BBQ places near the beach or boardwalk?
Yes, several barbecue spots are just a short walk or drive from the beachfront. Check out Sweet Carolina’s and Carolina Roadhouse for options close to Myrtle Beach’s main attractions.