I've eaten at this establishment many times over several years. No matter when you go, it's always the same consistently tasty barbecue. I recently went to lunch with a coworker (his first visit) and he was seriously impressed. All sauces are great. I normally visit for lunch and you can't go wrong with Little or Big Joe sandwich basket. If you're near West Ashley you should definitely stop by. read more

Just drove into town, this place is right next to our hotel, searched Yelp for reviews and thought we would try it...WORST MISTAKE EVER!!!! Ordered dinner, don't even know where to start on how awful the food was. 1st, our order was deleted or lost, had to go to the counter to ask and no one seemed to know what happened. Then was told they were out of baked beans, at dinner time, how is that possible?? They offered my husband Key Lime pie, it's his favorite, oops, they forgot, they were out of that also. I didn't even eat my meal, cold soggy sandwich and mac and cheese was nothing but a mess of burnt cheese and gloppy noodles. Those place needs to get its act together!!!!! read more

I eat at bessinger's frequently and have never had a bad experience! I had Madison take my order at the drive through tonight and her genuine personality and small talk are the kinds of things that make me keep going back! read more

I went to Bessinger's to eat. I stood at the register for 3 minutes and no one waited on me. Suddenly, the cashier rose up from behind the counter with her phone. I asked her if she was on her phone instead of waiting on me. She said yes with a big smile. I asked to speak to the manager. I told the manager exactly what had happened and that I had been eating there for decades. I told her that I wanted her to know the kind of customer service her employee was(n't) providing. Furthermore, I told her I would be dining elsewhere. Very disappointed. read more

2nd chance at the location West Ashley. Bad service, burnt onion ring. Requested a Big Joe pork bbq sandwich and got a small and charged as though I bought the basket. The Onion ring was edible. Took 20 mins to order with only 2 cars in front of me. Shame on me for going back after the 1st bad experience. Smh read more

This place was AWFUL!!! The food was gross, the prices were absurd and the only reason I'm even giving it one star is because I cannot figure out how to rate this place with no stars!!! read more

I've been eating here since I was a kid (over 35 years!) LOVE the cheeseburgers and onion rings. YUM!!!

Wow! We were delighted to discover Bessinger's while vacationing in South Carolina. The half chicken was cooked to perfection - amazingly tender and flavorful. The Little Joe basket had a sandwich with the best pulled pork I have ever tasted along the giant onion ring as an especially delightful treat. We fell in love with the Hickory Red Sauce. The staff was helpful and pleasant! Thanks to Bessinger's for a great BBQ experience. Charlie and Heather Zimmerman read more

Bessingers catered my friends' wedding on Folly Beach on Halloween 2014. I booked the event several months ahead and was a bit nervous since I don't live in Charleston and had not heard of Bessingers. Drew was incredibly helpful, friendly and knowledgeable. When he arrived in more than enough time to get set up we were impressed. Then the food was delicious and the clean up was nothing because we didn't have to lift a finger! And the price for amazing service and great food was also amazing! Great value!!! We will recommend and use Bessingers again! read more

Decent bbq w/o all the frills. I used to eat at Maurice's in Columbia all the time and this place might be a little better. Most everything was slightly above average . I'd say and the hash and rice was really good. Bbq was a little dry but I wasn't overly offended by that. It gets 3 stars instead of 4 b/c of the ill placed, disgusting meatballs on the buffet. Really? read more

The food was really good. I enjoyed the fried fish, and chicken. The chicken just fell right off of the bone as did the BBQ ribs. The ribs were oh so yummy. The sides were just not that tasteful however. I think that $15.00 for a buffet is kind of over kill. read more

Very disappointing!! Onion ring is not edible nor was the mac & cheese. Pork was fair.

While in vacation in Charleston, my meat eating hubby wanted to partake in his favorite culinary past time, BBQ. Of course I binge watch "Delicious Destinations " with the host with the most Andrew Zimmerman, so I decided to go where he's gone before. We opted for the drive through since we were weary from our long drive from Atlanta. We ordered the brisket platter with mac n cheese, baked beans, and cornbread. Total was $14.42. The brisket was on point. Sides were delicious too. Service was swift and painless too. I will be returning when in town to get my piggy fix. read more

Some good old-fashion BBQ. This is one of those little places that's been around for years and has an established following and certain flavor profile with their BBQ. Kind of old-school and different from the newer trendy BBQ places. We learned of this place watching a food show (Food Paradise and/or Man vs. Food) and wanted to give it a try while down in Charleston. On Man vs. Food they showed the host working with the owner to create what they called The Colossal which was pork BBQ, brisket, slaw, onion straws and mustard based BBQ sauce. It was interesting to learn that this sandwich was created just for the show (according to the cashier at the place) but that it was in such a demand after the show, that they added it to the menu. I ordered it along with a side of collard greens and side of cabbage. The sandwich was great! Brisket was tender with good mild smokey flavor. BBQ pork was equally as good. Slaw added a nice mild crunch and didn't overpower the sandwich. The onion straws were a nice touch to finish it off. The mustard based sauce common in SC is always a nice treat when we are in the area (we are from VA) and this was no exception. The cabbage seemed a little over cooked, but flavor was decent. The collards had quite a unique flavor. Sweet with a hint of ham/pork. Different then the usual pork fat/vinegar flavor profile or the bland plan ones (ugh). They were quite good. Overall, a nice, satisfying lunch. read more

Bessinger's BBQ - The Colossal from Man vs. Food, cabbage and collard greens. - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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My BFF and I were in Charleston last month to celebrate our 40th birthdays. A trip to the south would not have been complete without some BBQ, and this did not disappoint. We ordered a pork platter, and enjoyed sides of corn bread and fries. The meat was tender and delicious, and we really enjoyed the sauce. Such great flavor! It's no wonder they've been in the BBQ business forever. Keep up the great work! read more

VERY DISAPPOINTED AGAIN!!! For a barbecue buffet it was again lacking in barbecue offerings. Barbecue hash and barbecue sauce were the only barbecue??? The meat dishes consisted of what looked and tasted like hard & very dry baked chicken, greasy grilled and over cooked chopped baked chicken with mystery meat, grilled greasy sausage, and fried chicken - NO pulled pork or ribs BARBECUE!!! Vegetables of collard greens, green beans, and lima beans were tasty. However, we will not go to the Sunday night barbecue buffet again because it DOESN'T PROVIDE BARBECUE!!! Do not believe the sign posted out front that says to enjoy our barbecue because they DO NOT SERVE ANY OF THEIR TRADITIONAL BARBECUE ON THE SUNDAY BUFFET. read more

My favorite BBQ in Charleston. The mustard based sauce is absolutely unique and delicious. The onion rings are to die for. Better get there early, the line can be crazy. They cater also. read more

The smoked turkey sandwich is the only thing I order. It is awesome. I don't eat the bbq because it is a little on the pricey side. Sweet tea is awesome. The kids meal pricing on Thursdays make it affordable for a family of six to dine out. The last takeout order I had came with four steak fries. The one dish I have tried is great, but the help and the smell around the bathroom make me consider another eatery every time. read more

Bbq was good but overpriced. Payed $16 for two, honestly, pretty small sandwiches and nothing else. Feeling a little robbed even if you have been around as long as you have read more

Been by this place a million times and never really considered it. So his is my first time here even though it has been around for years. We had a large gathering of about 20 people meeting on a Sunday at noon:30. The restaurant has 2 sides. One where you go through a line and order and they buzz you when your order is ready to come scoop. The other side, I think, was a buffet, which we decided against and I think I am glad but can't speak to that side. Our side had several TVs with sports and news on them. There was plenty of seating when we arrived but by the time we left it was full. Get there before12:30 to get a seat. I got the Daily special which was Brisket with fries and a drink for $9.80. The fries were big steak fries and the Brisket was plentiful and great flavor. My wife got chicken and I was kind of surprised but it was real good. The skin was fantastic. Everyone seemed to love their onion ring which I still am ok with but not sold like them. Overall it was a great experience and especially convenient for large parties that are going to have separate checks anyway. We will be back. read more

Wow! Extraordinary, mouthwatering grub! This is a family owned business, steeped in the pride and tradition of 3 generations serving family and friends, and it shows in the quality of the food. At the risk of using a cliche', "The secret's in the sauce." The Bessingers have spent 3/4 of a century perfecting their sauces, and it shows. Check 'em out -- you won't regret it . . . If you're like me, you'll need to get some sauce to go! read more

The food was okay. We ordered a brisket basket and a pulled pork basket. They came with fries and one onion ring. We also ordered a full order of onion rings. The food was barely warm. The brisket was very good. The pork was in a yellow bbq sauce, which was mustard based. We didn't know about the mustard based sauce. I don't like mustard that much. Sadly I didn't enjoy my meal. We wouldn't go back. Food needs to be served hot!! read more

Terrible. Ordered from the counter, not Buffett. The best thing I can say is that At least the ribs were not greasy.

awsome bbq place! has been there 4evr! love mustard bbq sause!

First time here and it did not disappoint. Great pork barbecue, onion rings the size of doughnuts, and a great atmosphere. If you like barbecue, this place does it well. In a food genre that is frequently poorly executed by a multitude of so called barbecue establishments, Bessinger's does it right. read more

Yet ANOTHER terrible experience at bessingers...1/2 chicken was obviously kept in a warmer for hours and was dry as hay. The single onion ring looked good on the top but turned over...completely burnt...this is it for this place...headed back to Swig and Swine flr REAL BBQ. read more

Decent BBQ spot, would definitely recommend dukes over it though. It is very nice tho. Sophisticated BBQ buffet if you can imagine such a thing. No corn nuggets :( also were out of mashed potatoes and sweet Potato pie :( had to scrap my yams man. Lots of flies and can't serve your own desert... but nice place read more

This was the worst place I've ever eaten. I understand that is a subjective statement because everyone has a different idea of what is good and bad but upon leaving the restaurant I asked my husband what he thought (without voicing my opinion) and he said he didn't like it and would never go back. That comment coming from a man who is never critical and loves BBQ. read more

Was really looking forward to eating at Bessinger's after I heard they offered buffet. At 5:00 on a Sunday afternoon I was surpised that the parking lot was not full but entered building full of anticipation. Upon entering hostess greeted me and asked if she could help me. I informed her that I was interested in buffet and she instructed me to help myself to buffet line and a seat and that a waitress would be by to get my drink order. I was half through my meal when a waitress finally came to my table and apologized that she had not seen me sitting there. This was kind of surprise since there were only three tables with people at them including one almost beside me. She bought my tea and check; apologized again and told me if I needed anything to let her know. She never came back to my table. I finished my meal and got ready to leave. I did leave a tip but was wondering why I am tipping her. I should have tipped the busboy instead since he seemed to be the only one paying attention. When I got to hostess stand there was no one present. I waited about five minutes when my waitress came and asked me if she could help me that the hostess must be in the bathroom. She acted like she did not even know me. Very strange. Now I know why there were no cars in parking lot. Food was only OK Fish was fresh Chicken kinda old. Maybe it was fresher at lunch. Or maybe leftover from lunch. Am not eager to go back but if I do it will be from the to go area. I am in food and beverage business and understand the importance of customer service. I know that Bessinger's is a big name in the South Carolina barbeque industry but being from Eastern North Carolina I was not impressed. read more

I got the pulled chicken sandwich and there were two long chicken bones inside the sandwich which I managed to bite down on pretty hard. So gross, I threw the rest away. read more

Very fatty St. Louis style ribs!!! The onion rings should be called onion donuts - sweet. Disappointing meal. I cannot recommend this restaurant for bbq. read more

Your Savannah Highway location could really take a lesson in customer service. I placed a larger order at 4pm to be ready at 6:45pm, to my surprise when I arrived at 6:45pm it was not ready and I did not leave your restaurant until nearly 7:15pm. Not once did someone apologize for my wait, or even take the time to say "we are running a little behind, it will be just one moment." A little kindness goes a long way in the service industry.... read more

The service and food availability is always so so. I must say I was truly disappointed by the food and customer service the last time I ate at Bessingers. I was headed out of town to Jacksonville to visit my sister and stopped by Bessingers on my way down Savannah highway. My sister is obsessed with Bessingers and Melvin's (their family resturaunt on James Island) so I figured I'd surprise her with her favorite meal upon arrival. I ordered three Big Joe Beef Baskets with extra sauce. The energetic and very delightful cashier placed my order correctly, but when I received my food it was incorrect and less than satisfactory. When I finally received my correct order after a lengthy wait I hopped in the car and headed to Florida. I began to eat my food in the car when I realized there was NO barbecue sauce on my sandwich or in my bag!!!! Literally three barbecue sandwiches accompanied by huge steak fries and onion rings with not a drop of sauce! DRY and DISGUSTING doesn't begin to describe the experience. And to add insult to injury I called and spoke to the manager who was unapologetic and slightly rude. He informed me that the sandwiches that my family and I have grown to love over the last 15+ years have ALWAYS been served that way, which is not the truth. If only his sandwiches were as saucy as his response to my complaint this review would have been completely different. read more

Tried it on the urging of friends who called it a Sunday institution in town. It was gross. Can't touch Lone Star or any of the really amazing old school bbq's in SC. They couldn't keep the food stocked or drink orders straight. Expensive for the poor quality, especially for children at $8. When every other kids meal in town is $5... and they won't eat anything because the food is terrible. Miserable experience, not worth it. read more

I just got a pulled pork sandwich here. I found the pork pretty unremarkable and not very flavorful. They also seem to only offer the local gold mustard sauce. You get steak fries and a large onion ring with it. Unfortunately they put so much batter on it, it tasted more like an onion donut which I found disgusting. read more

BBQ pulled pork with sauce is good but most else is average buffet food. Based on review average I was expecting more.

Honestly? I'm reluctant to give even 3 stars. I'm coming from ATL bbq, so maybe I'm spoiled. Ordered a few items for pickup when some family came into town and here are our thoughts: First off, they were out of brisket. Totally out, and the order taker didn't know this when I called (she was very apologetic about it when she called me back, which was nice...but I wouldn't expect a big bbq joint to be out of brisket on a Tuesday afternoon). The pork was tasty but the sauce (original) was not. Too vinegary for me and I'm pretty sure that's NC style, not SC. Ribs fell off the bone (good!), but were way overcooked (bad!). We ordered chicken, which I didn't try, but the others said it was ok. Mac n cheese should be solid at a bbq joint, but it tasted more like buttered noodles. Not cheesy. Not creamy. Buttery. Corn was buttery, too. It was sweet and crisp, but the salty butter covered the natural deliciousness. Coleslaw was awesome. Very fresh and was my favorite side. Now the onion rings... They receive rave reviews on here, so we got two orders (8 rings). I think a more appropriate description would be onion donuts. The batter is sweet and had the fluffy/dense consistency of a donut. And they're the size of donuts. They were good, but not great. I probably won't be back. Hometeam BBQ is better. Two last things: 1) The service was slow (called ahead and arrived about 5 min late. Still had to wait 10+ minutes with about a dozen staff and no other customers in sight). 2) Prices on website are out of date. read more

The little and big Joe Sandwiches are some of the best things I've ever had. They are amazing, and I really like the sauce, which is different from any other that I have tried. read more

What a disappointment. We usually get take-out from here to have when family comes to town. Our $47 meal was unsatisfactory. The qt rice cup was lacking three inches from being full. Not only was the cup not full, the rice had been scraped as the last from the pan. It was riddled with hard brown pieces that hurt if bitten down on. We ended up not able to eat it. Usually, this is a favorite local spot. Next time, we will think twice before deciding to choose here for our meal. read more

The food was good even though I did not get what I ordered. This is a walk up to order restaurant. I ordered by name and meal number. The girl behind the counter looked at me like I wasn't speaking English. I told her three times that I wanted the BRISKET sandwich. Finally a co worker came by and took my order since she was looking at me like a deer in headlights. My husband brought the food to our table after our number was called and I started to eat and realized I was eating a pulled pork sandwich not brisket. The place was crowded. I didn't want to wait in line to complain then wonder if anyone spit in my food. I just ate it and vowed not to return. We go to Melvins which is not too much farther away and have same owners. The place is much better run and has better atmosphere and the food is great! read more