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Eat & Drink

Top 5 BBQ Spots in South Carolina

Featured Image: Southern Living</font size>

If there is one thing all South Carolinians are experts on, it’s good BBQ. The Palmetto State is covered in top-notch BBQ joints from top to bottom. However, in the quest for the best BBQ in the state, which places stand head and shoulders above the rest? We present: The Top Five BBQ Spots in SC

#5 – Ward’s Bar-B-Q

With four locations located in Sumter, South Carolina, Ward’s is an undeniable classic. Not only is the BBQ itself amazing, but Ward’s also has its own original BBQ sauce. However, Ward’s really earns the spot on this list with its hash, which is hands-down the best in the state. Ward’s is definitely your go-to spot in the Sumter area for a fantastic BBQ experience, it’s no wonder that there’s four of them up there.

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#4 – Cooper’s Country Store

Based off that picture alone, you may be confused as to why a gas station is on this list. Well, Cooper’s Country Store is no mere gas station, it is a historical landmark. Cooper’s originally opened in the 30s and the family that originally owned it actually lived on the second floor. The menu is not vast by any means but look no further for amazing BBQ sandwiches. Cooper’s is really about the novelty and the chance to step back into time to experience history itself, all while enjoying the fantastic and unique BBQ of course.

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#3 – Music Man’s Bar-B-Que

Flaunting a wide array of options featuring both an all-you-can-eat buffet and individual plates, Music Man’s is also particularly revered for its Catfish Stew. With slow-cooked whole hogs providing the exceptional BBQ, complimented by their unique sauce, Music Man’s makes for a great experience all around. With daily specials, a great buffet, endless side options, and live entertainment, this is definitely one of the most fun joints on this list

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#2 – Shealy’s Bar-B-Que

Located in South Carolina’s “Twin Cities,” Shealy’s in Batesburg-Leesville is more than happy to share this classic and famous BBQ buffet. Everyone in SC knows Shealy’s as one of the go-to places for an unforgettable all-you-can-eat buffet. People will trek to Shealy’s from all over for good reason. The spread of delicious items on their buffet is incredibly varied. Featuring both mustard and vinegar based BBQ, famous fried chicken, fantastic fixins, and daily specials, there is something for everyone here. Not to mention, great dessert options as well, if you can find the room for it after the impressive buffet. Shealy’s celebrates its 50th year of business in 2019, and it doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.

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#1 – Duke’s Bar-B-Que

And now for the number 1, the cream of the crop, the king of all BBQ in SC, we present Duke’s Bar-B-Que. Located in Orangeburg, SC by the Pepsi Plant. This is the premier place for a true SC-style BBQ experience. Duke’s is only open Thursday-Saturday, but if you happen to be in the area for any of those three days, don’t walk, run to Duke’s. With its all-you-can-eat buffet, there is no better stop for classic BBQ meats, fried chicken, and great fixins. For a tried and true South Carolina BBQ experience, this is it, the king of the state’s endless BBQ joints and you will definitely not regret stopping by.

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Eat & Drink

The Best BBQ In South Carolina

Featured Image Credit: Julia Belles Restaurant Facebook

South Carolina is the birthplace of barbecue, so it is only right to have two of our BBQ restaurants on Travel & Leisure’s The 25 Best Places for Barbecue in the U.S.

Out of 25 BBQ serving restaurants, coming in the 21st spot is JK’s House of Ribs in Manning. They sell ribs, chicken, burgers, and, of course, fantastic barbeque. At number 6 on the list is Julia Belle’s Restaurant in Florence. They serve southern food with a Lowcountry influence. Popular items are shrimp & grits, low country boil, and BBQ egg rolls.

Although these restaurants didn’t make Time & Leisure’s list, they are some fan favorites:

In Charleston: Lewis BBQ, Swig & Swine, & Home Team BBQ

In Columbia: Little Pigs BBQ, Docs BBQ, & Shealy’s BBQ

In Orangeburg: Dukes BBQ

In Kingstree: Brown’s BBQ

In Buffalo: Midway BBQ

 

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