In Columbia, barbecue is more than a meal—it’s a way of life. South Carolina’s capital sits at the intersection of several historic ‘cue traditions, but it’s best known for its tangy, mustard-based “Carolina Gold” sauce and slow-cooked pork.
Backyard pitmasters and old-school joints alike take pride in whole-hog barbecue, pulled sandwiches piled with slaw, and soulful, scratch-made sides.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you’ll find Columbia’s barbecue scene has heart, history, and sauce in abundance.
1. Southern Belly BBQ
Creative yet firmly rooted in tradition, Southern Belly is famous for loading up its sandwiches with pulled pork, brisket, and inventive toppings (think: pimento cheese, green tomato relish, or fried pickles).
Their signature mustard sauce is a must-try, and you can mix-and-match different meats and sauces on your platter.
2. Doc’s Barbeque & Southern Buffet
A Columbia staple, Doc’s is the kind of place where locals bring visiting family.
They specialize in classic pork barbecue—smoked over hickory wood, chopped to order, and served with that signature yellow sauce.
The Southern buffet at lunch offers fried chicken, BBQ hash, collards, and more—old school, and full of comfort.
3. Hite’s Bar-B-Que
Operating since 1957, Hite’s is perhaps Columbia’s most iconic barbecue stand.
Their Friday and Saturday takeout service is legendary: expect lines and paper-wrapped orders of smoky pork, tender ribs, and spicy sausage links, all with tangy mustard sauce and down-home sides like potato salad.
Get there early—they often sell out.
4. Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ
No South Carolina barbecue guide is complete without Maurice’s. With a history as spicy as its sauce, Piggie Park is synonymous with “Carolina Gold” and tender chopped pork.
Fans love the old-school drive-thru vibe, the crunchy hush puppies, and the bright, peppery sauce that defines Midlands ‘cue.
5. Palmetto Pig Bar-B-Q Restaurant
Rustic and all-you-can-eat, Palmetto Pig offers a true downhome buffet experience.
Load up your plate with pulled pork, fried chicken, hash and rice (a Midlands SC specialty), and all the mac and cheese you can handle. The banana pudding dessert is a local legend.
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