Greenville, SC doesn’t just do barbecue—it elevates it. You smell the smoke trailing down Main Street, and find a line forming at lunchtime, locals trading secrets about who’s got the best ribs or which hidden spot does chicken right. I spent time here chasing that exact trail, talking to pitmasters whose family recipes read like prized novels and sampling more than my fair share. You rarely see people arguing about sauce vs. dry rub—they just want to eat.
This guide skips the hype and gets straight to the flavor. If you’re someone who thinks good barbecue is all about messy hands and slow-cooked love, you’re in good hands. From loved, time-tested spots to newer joints shaking up tradition, Greenville’s BBQ scene has range. Sit tight: each place on this list brings its own style and signature bite, so let’s cut to the chase before that next lunch craving hits.
Where to find the best bbq in Greenville, SC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Greenville, SC:
- Smoke On The Water
- Mike & Jeff’s BBQ
- Sticky Fingers Rib House
- Bucky’s Bar-B-Q
- Henry’s Smokehouse
- Lewis Barbecue Greenville
- Mac’s Speed Shop
- Sbh Bbq
- Moe’s Original Bbq
- Home Team BBQ – Greenville
1. Smoke On The Water
Smoke On The Water sits by the river in downtown Greenville, pulling in both locals and wandering food lovers. The aroma hits you first—hardwood smoke curling off slow-cooked meats. Inside, the easygoing vibe sets the stage for a meal where conversation and barbecue both shine.
My last visit started with a fork-tender plate of pulled chicken, its smoky flavor rich without overpowering. The signature ribs are fall-off-the-bone, bathed in a tangy house-made sauce that lingers just right. Their barbecue platters come with classic sides like collards and creamy mac and cheese, rounding out the experience.
For those with different diets, vegetarian and gluten-free options are more than an afterthought here. If you want a taste of Greenville’s take on Southern barbecue, Smoke On The Water is the place to dive in.
2. Mike & Jeff’s BBQ
Mike & Jeff’s BBQ carries the charm of a classic roadside barbecue joint, tucked away on Old Buncombe Road. It’s a spot where the smoky scent greets you in the parking lot and genuine smiles meet you at the door. There’s nothing fancy here, just a laser focus on honest-to-goodness barbecue.
The pulled chicken stands out—smoked daily, never dry, and always piled high. Order the BBQ plate with a side of tangy slaw and baked beans to see what keeps regulars coming back. Their sauces range from sweet and mild to peppery, letting you craft each bite to suit your own taste.
Outdoor seating gives you the chance to linger and savor each mouthful in the sun. If you’re after true Greenville barbecue tradition, Mike & Jeff’s should be on your shortlist.
3. Sticky Fingers Rib House
Sticky Fingers Rib House lives up to its name—this is the place where you’ll lose count of napkins. Tucked on Main Street, it exudes a laid-back energy and fills the air with the unmistakable scent of hickory smoke. My first encounter here was all about sharing platters with friends, ribs at the center of every conversation.
The hickory-smoked ribs are the headline act, drifting between sweet and bold thanks to their signature sauce lineup. Go for the Memphis-style dry rub ribs if you want a deep crust of spices over tender meat.
Don’t skip the BBQ chicken and Southern sides—simple, classic, unmistakably satisfying. Sticky Fingers balances nostalgia with rock-solid technique, making it a true barbecue staple in Greenville.
4. Bucky’s Bar-B-Q
Bucky’s Bar-B-Q is the kind of place where the pit smoke clings to your clothes—and you truly don’t mind. Family-owned and always bustling, this Greenville favorite keeps things simple and genuine. My first meal here left me reaching for napkins and praising the pitmaster in equal measure.
The pulled chicken is a must—smoky, moist, and stacked onto fresh rolls. Their BBQ plates come with sides like collard greens and classic potato salad, each one done right. If you’re hungry, try the combo plate to sample more than one flavor.
Bucky’s showcases the soulful, slow-smoked style that defines Carolina barbecue. Each bite is all about tradition—nothing fancy, just pure, honest flavor that sticks with you.
5. Henry’s Smokehouse
Henry’s Smokehouse keeps things classic and unpretentious—slow-cooked barbecue over hickory, served up with a big Southern smile. On my first trip, a friend insisted we go early to catch the fresh batch coming off the pit. The crowd there seemed to agree with that strategy.
The pulled chicken and tender barbecue plates are the heart of Henry’s lineup, each served with generous sides like house-made slaw and hearty baked beans. The secret here is in the smoke, deepening each bite without overpowering the meat.
Picnic tables outside make it easy to stretch out and savor the simple pleasure of really good barbecue. For anyone craving tradition, Henry’s Smokehouse delivers it with every plate.
6. Lewis Barbecue Greenville
Lewis Barbecue Greenville instantly commands attention—the space buzzes with energy, and the smokers out back work overtime. This is barbecue with a touch of Texas swagger right in the heart of the Carolinas. My visit meant standing in line early, watching thick slices of poultry and brisket get carved to order.
The smoked chicken here strikes the sweet spot between smoky and juicy, always full of flavor. Pair it with traditional Southern sides like tangy pickles or that irresistible green chile corn pudding. Try a sampler if you like options—Lewis’s care for consistency shines in every bite.
Busy or not, service keeps things friendly and efficient, never rushing your meal. When you want Greenville’s lively take on pit barbecue, Lewis delivers big on taste and personality.
7. Mac’s Speed Shop
Mac’s Speed Shop brings a shot of roadhouse spirit to Greenville, mixing barbecue and bikes with genuine Southern hospitality. Rows of picnic benches fill with neighbors and newcomers, swapping stories over mouthfuls of smoky goodness. My last stop-in turned lunch into a lingering afternoon surrounded by buckets of iced tea and classic rock.
Get the chicken BBQ plate—moist, smoky, and never shy on portion size. Sides like house-cut fries and collard greens do more than fill the plate; they add comfort and character. Mac’s sauces let you dial in flavor from tangy to spicy to sweet.
Late nights and outdoor seating draw a buzzing crowd. If you’re hunting for relaxed vibes and laid-back barbecue, Mac’s Speed Shop keeps it rolling.
8. Sbh Bbq
SBH BBQ is a straightforward spot on Pelham Road where the food never plays second fiddle to the décor. What sets SBH apart is the deep, smoky aroma that draws you in and the steady, unpretentious service once you’re inside. I found myself coming back for lunch more times than I’d planned—there’s a certain satisfaction in that first bite of their slow-roasted barbecue.
The chicken plate is tender and packed with a balanced smoke flavor, perfectly paired with their signature sauce. Sides like baked beans and slaw complete the Southern BBQ experience. If you like to keep things simple and focus on flavor, SBH hits the mark.
Takeout is fast and reliable, making SBH BBQ an easy go-to for those craving real barbecue on the fly.
9. Moe’s Original Bbq
Moe’s Original BBQ on Stone Avenue brings a bit of Alabama attitude to Greenville’s barbecue scene. The vibe is casual and warm, always buzzing with friends catching up or folks tucking into trays of smoky goodness. My own first visit here turned into a routine—I couldn’t resist their rotating lineup of classic Southern sides.
The smoked chicken is the go-to choice here, served juicy and dappled with just the right kiss of smoke. Their signature sauces—one tangy, one with a bit more kick—let you play with each bite. Sides like black-eyed peas and cornbread strike the perfect note of comfort.
For groups or takeout, Moe’s makes everything simple and satisfying, with fast service and crowd-pleasing portions. It’s proof that real deal barbecue can also feel welcoming and easygoing.
10. Home Team BBQ – Greenville
+1 864-686-7427
Home Team BBQ – Greenville makes barbecue feel like a backyard party, only with a bit more polish and a hit playlist in the background. The space is open and energetic, with the smell of smoke drifting from the kitchen and the friendly banter of regulars at the tables. My last meal here was unhurried and full of little surprises, from creative sides to clever sauces.
The smoked chicken sandwich is a standout—tender meat stacked high and dressed with crisp slaw. Barbecue plates with classic Southern fixin’s remind you why people love this place. Their sauce bar sparks that familiar debate: spicy, tangy, or a touch of sweet?
Whether you dine in or carry out, Home Team BBQ nails it for anyone after big flavor in a lively setting.
More Things to Try in Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of barbecue is most common in Greenville, SC?
Greenville borrows from across the Carolinas, but you’ll find plenty of traditional slow-smoked meats—think pulled chicken, brisket, and ribs—often served with house-made sauces and classic Southern sides.
Are there good vegetarian or gluten-free BBQ options in Greenville?
Yes, several BBQ spots—like Smoke On The Water—offer vegetarian and gluten-free choices, making it easier for every guest to enjoy the flavors without missing out.
Do most BBQ restaurants in Greenville offer takeout?
Absolutely. Most barbecue places in Greenville make takeout simple and quick, from a single sandwich to family-sized spreads.
What are must-try BBQ dishes in Greenville?
The local favorites include smoked chicken plates, ribs, and hearty barbecue sandwiches paired with sides like collard greens, slaw, mac and cheese, and baked beans.
Is there a difference between Eastern and Western Carolina barbecue in Greenville?
You’ll notice both influences—Eastern Carolina style uses a tangy, vinegar-based sauce, while Western style leans a bit sweeter or richer. Many restaurants offer both, so you can pick your favorite.
Do I need to book a reservation at BBQ spots in Greenville?
Reservations aren’t usually necessary at most barbecue joints, though some popular places fill up fast during weekends or special events. For larger groups, calling ahead is wise.
Is Greenville’s BBQ scene good for families?
Definitely. Most places have a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and offer kid-friendly menu choices.
Can I find locally owned BBQ places in Greenville?
Yes, many of Greenville’s best barbecue restaurants are family-owned or local chains, keeping tradition—and flavor—front and center.