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Best BBQ in Aiken, SC

Aiken, South Carolina, is such a cool place for BBQ lovers like me! There are so many spots here that serve up some seriously tasty barbecue. I’ve explored the local scene, and I’m excited to share my favorite places where you can find mouthwatering dishes made with love and skill.

So, what’s the best BBQ in Aiken, SC? Well, the best BBQ in Aiken is a mix of amazing restaurants that are known for their delicious flavors, super tender meats, and cozy vibes. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic smokehouse or a trendy spot, Aiken has something for everyone who loves BBQ.

Get ready to dive into the yummy world of Aiken’s BBQ! I’ll take you through some of the best places to eat, where you can enjoy not just great food but also a fun and memorable experience. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these tasty adventures!

Top 10 BBQ in Aiken, SC

  1. Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken
  2. Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken
  3. The Pot Smoker BBQ
  4. Shane’s Rib Shack
  5. Neon Fig
  6. Rack and Grill III
  7. The Feed Sack- Aiken
  8. Metro Diner
  9. The Great American Grill
  10. Jon and Jesses Snac Shac

1. Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken

Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken

4248 Whiskey Rd, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 649-7675
Menu: dukesbbqaiken.com
Directions: Open on Map

Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken

Oh wow, Dukes Bar-B-Que in Aiken is just amazing! I remember the first time I walked in, and the yummy smell of BBQ hit me right away. The people there are super nice, and the place feels so cozy, like you’re eating at a friend’s house. It’s a great spot to hang out with family or friends.

What makes Dukes really special is how tasty their food is. The BBQ is always so tender and full of flavor! You have to try their pulled pork sandwich. It’s juicy and just melts in your mouth. And don’t forget to get some fried okra on the side; it’s crispy and delicious!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, Dukes Bar-B-Que is a must-try for anyone who loves BBQ in Aiken!

2. Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken

Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken

222 The Alley SW, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0549
Menu: southboundsmokehouse.com
Directions: Open on Map

Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken

Oh wow, Southbound Smokehouse in Aiken is just the best! I remember the first time I went there, and the yummy smell of smoked meat made my tummy rumble right away. The people who work there are super nice, and the place feels so warm and welcoming. You can sit inside or outside, which is really cool!

What I love about Southbound is how tasty their BBQ is. Everything is cooked just right! You have to try their brisket; it’s so soft and full of flavor. And don’t forget to get the mac and cheese—it’s creamy and super cheesy!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, Southbound Smokehouse is a must-try for anyone who loves BBQ in Aiken!

3. The Pot Smoker BBQ

The Pot Smoker BBQ

651 Silver Bluff Rd, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0941
Menu: www.thepotsmokerbbq.com
Directions: Open on Map

The Pot Smoker BBQ

Oh wow, The Pot Smoker BBQ is just awesome! I still remember the first time I went there. As soon as I walked in, the yummy smell of BBQ made my mouth water. The people who work there are super nice, and the place has a really fun and chill vibe. You can sit inside or outside, which is great for enjoying the nice weather!

What I love about The Pot Smoker BBQ is how tasty everything is. They really know how to make BBQ! You have to try their ribs; they are so tender and just fall off the bone. And their baked beans? Oh my gosh, they are sweet and smoky, and just so good!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, The Pot Smoker BBQ is a must-visit for anyone who loves yummy BBQ in Aiken!

4. Shane’s Rib Shack

Shane's Rib Shack

2645 Whiskey Rd, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0192
Menu: order.shanesribshack.com
Directions: Open on Map

Shane’s Rib Shack

Oh wow, Shane’s Rib Shack is just the best place ever! I remember the first time I walked in, and the yummy smell of slow-smoked BBQ made me so happy. The people who work there are super nice, and the place feels so cozy, like a big warm hug. You can sit inside or outside, which is really cool!

What I love about Shane’s is how tasty their BBQ is. Everything is cooked just right! You have to try their ribs; they are so juicy and fall right off the bone. And don’t forget to get their sweet potato fries—they are crispy and sweet, just perfect!

Whether you want to eat there or grab some takeout, Shane’s Rib Shack is a must-visit for anyone who loves yummy BBQ in Aiken!

5. Neon Fig

Neon Fig

110 Park Ave SW, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0424
Menu: www.neon-fig.com
Directions: Open on Map

Neon Fig

Oh wow, Neon Fig is such a fun place to eat! I remember the first time I went there, and I was super excited to try their food. The vibe is really nice, and you can pick to sit inside or outside, which is awesome for enjoying the nice weather. The staff is super friendly, and they make you feel right at home!

What I really love about Neon Fig is how they put a special twist on BBQ. You have to try their smoked chicken; it’s so juicy and packed with flavor! And don’t forget to get their crunchy coleslaw—it’s so fresh and yummy!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, Neon Fig is a must-visit for anyone who loves tasty BBQ in Aiken!

6. Rack and Grill III

Rack and Grill III

522 York St NE, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0256
Menu: www.rackngrill.com
Directions: Open on Map

Rack and Grill III

Oh wow, Rack and Grill III is such a fun place to eat! I remember the first time I walked in, and the yummy smell of BBQ made me so excited. The vibe is really nice, and you can choose to sit inside or outside, which is perfect for enjoying the sunshine. The staff is super friendly, and they make you feel right at home!

What I really love about Rack and Grill III is their delicious BBQ. You have to try their smoked brisket; it’s so tender and just melts in your mouth! And don’t forget to get their sweet potato fries—they are crispy and just the right amount of sweet!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, Rack and Grill III is a must-visit for anyone who loves tasty BBQ in Aiken!

7. The Feed Sack- Aiken

The Feed Sack- Aiken

1593 Whiskey Rd, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 226-0459
Menu: www.thefeedsackrestaurants.com
Directions: Open on Map

The Feed Sack- Aiken

Oh wow, The Feed Sack in Aiken is such a fun place to eat! I remember the first time I went there, and I was super excited to try their food. The atmosphere is really nice, and you can pick to sit inside or outside, which is awesome for enjoying the nice weather. The staff is super friendly, and they make you feel right at home!

What I really love about The Feed Sack is their yummy BBQ and comfort food. You have to try their pulled pork; it’s so tender and full of flavor! And don’t forget to get their creamy mac and cheese—it’s just the best and so cheesy!

Whether you want to eat there or take it home, The Feed Sack is a must-visit for anyone who loves tasty BBQ in Aiken!

8. Metro Diner

Metro Diner

1944 Whiskey Rd #101, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 792-7808
Menu: metrodiner.com
Directions: Open on Map

Metro Diner

Oh wow, Metro Diner is such a cozy and fun place to eat! I remember the first time I walked in, and I felt so happy right away. The atmosphere is warm and friendly, and you can choose to sit inside or outside, which is really nice for enjoying the fresh air. The staff is super nice, and they make you feel like you’re part of the family!

What I really love about Metro Diner is their yummy breakfast and lunch options. You have to try their famous meatloaf; it’s so juicy and full of flavor! And don’t forget to get their crispy hash browns—they are the best and so crunchy!

Whether you want to eat there or grab some takeout, Metro Diner is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food in Aiken!

9. The Great American Grill

350 E Gate Dr, Aiken, SC 29803, USA
Phone: (803) 641-4220
Menu: hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Directions: Open on Map

The Great American Grill

Oh wow, The Great American Grill is such a fun place to eat! I remember the first time I walked in, and I felt so happy right away. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, and you can pick to sit inside or outside, which is awesome for enjoying the nice weather. The staff is super friendly, and they make you feel right at home!

What I really love about The Great American Grill is their yummy food. You have to try their BBQ chicken; it’s so juicy and packed with flavor! And don’t forget to get their creamy mashed potatoes—they are just the best and so smooth!

Whether you want to eat there or take it to go, The Great American Grill is a must-visit for anyone who loves tasty food in Aiken!

10. Jon and Jesses Snac Shac

Jon and Jesses Snac Shac

61 Ward Cir, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Phone: (803) 295-2333
Directions: Open on Map

Jon and Jesses Snac Shac

Oh wow, Jon and Jesses Snac Shac is such a fun place to eat! I remember the first time I went there, and I was super excited to try their food. The vibe is really cool, and you can sit inside or outside, which is awesome for enjoying the nice weather. The staff is super friendly, and they make you feel right at home!

What I really love about Jon and Jesses Snac Shac is their yummy snacks and BBQ. You have to try their BBQ nachos; they are so cheesy and loaded with flavor! And don’t forget to get their crispy onion rings—they are the best and so crunchy!

Whether you want to eat there or take it to go, Jon and Jesses Snac Shac is a must-visit for anyone who loves tasty food in Aiken!

Map of BBQ in Aiken, SC

Choosing the Right Restaurant for You

With 10 excellent places, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Restaurant Price Seating Takeout Delivery Wheelchair Reservation
Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken Inexpensive Yes Yes Yes Accessible No
Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken Inexpensive Yes Yes Yes Accessible Yes
The Pot Smoker BBQ Moderate Yes Yes Yes Accessible No
Shane’s Rib Shack Moderate Yes Yes Yes Accessible No
Neon Fig Moderate Yes Yes No Accessible Yes
Rack and Grill III Yes Yes No Accessible No
The Feed Sack- Aiken Moderate Yes Yes Yes Accessible Yes
Metro Diner Moderate Yes Yes Yes Accessible No
The Great American Grill Moderate Yes Yes Yes Accessible
Jon and Jesses Snac Shac Yes Yes No Accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best BBQ restaurants in Aiken, SC?
    Oh, there are so many great BBQ places in Aiken! Some of my favorites are Dukes Bar-B-Que, Southbound Smokehouse, and The Pot Smoker BBQ. Each one has its own yummy flavors and a cozy vibe that makes you feel right at home.

  • Is BBQ in Aiken, SC, good for families?
    Absolutely! BBQ spots like Shane’s Rib Shack and The Feed Sack are super family-friendly. They have tasty menus that everyone can enjoy, so it’s a great place to eat together!

  • Do I need to make reservations for BBQ restaurants in Aiken?
    It really depends on where you go. Some places, like Southbound Smokehouse, do take reservations, especially if you’re going with a big group. It’s always a good idea to call ahead just in case!

  • Can I get BBQ delivered in Aiken, SC?
    Yes, you can! Many BBQ restaurants, like Dukes Bar-B-Que and Metro Diner, offer delivery. So, you can enjoy your favorite BBQ right at home!

  • What are some popular BBQ dishes to try in Aiken?
    When you’re in Aiken, you have to try pulled pork, smoked brisket, and BBQ ribs. They are super tasty and show off the best of Southern BBQ flavors!

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