This place was an absolute must try after seeing it pop up in my feeds. I checked the website and it showed they were closing in an hour. I called and tried to place a Togo order and they do not allow for that. They did say though that they keep serving customers even if it's past closing. So took the drive to the other side of Columbia and it was very much worthwhile. They sell out of things and so if things are cross off the menu, then you should have went earlier. I missed out on the smoked links. It was pretty quiet for a Sunday afternoon and there were not that other many people in the dining area. Hopefully, that's just because it's a Sunday in South Carolina. The burnt ends, wings, wings, collards, beans, corn bread and rich with hash we're all stand outs. The staff was very friendly and helped make this place a gem that I'll highly recommend. read more

City Limits Barbeque - Burnt ends, wings, collards, pulled pork , corn bread and rice and hash - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

The Beef Rib and Spare Ribs was perfect. Their sides is really good. Had the Mac and cheese, collards. The best coleslaw you can put your hands on. I had the brisket last time gave bad review/ but I guess I'm not a brisket person. It's expensive, but I will just go every now and then. Went at 4:30 and they still had the groceries read more

I feel like barbecue spots might follow a similar playbook regarding meats, smoke, sides, and sauce, but they certainly are not created equal. When I was visiting my sister in Columbia, South Carolina, she told me about City Limits Barbecue and since there was only one day on our calendar that they would be open, our schedule was set. We got there pretty early after they had opened, but there's still was a line out the door. A little bit into our wait in line the owner/chef came out to talk us through the menu, his process, and recommendations. This was such a cool touch. I loved hearing about everything that he put into the product and the passion he has for his cooking. As you can imagine... The food was SPECTACULAR. Look, the brisket was absolutely top-notch and this beef rib was possibly the most tender chunk of meat I have ever had. We also got a half pound of their chopped whole hog option with crispy skins, and while it was delicious and flavorful, it didn't have the smoke or barbecue flavor without sauce that I was looking for. Of course, we had to go with practically an appetizer sampler of the sides and if I would've been able to put the food away, I would have just ordered one of everything. The collard greens were really good and not overly bitter, this sweet jalapeño coleslaw was maybe one of my favorite coleslaw recipes I've ever had, but the star of the show in my opinion were the sweet beans which was what most people would call baked beans. The amount of time, effort, and attention to every flavor in these beans was 10/10. Talk about bringing a humble ingredient to life. The cornbread was as amazing as you would imagine and the carrot cake was delicious. If you're looking for something unique with their barbecue, opt for the brisket sandwich with chili con queso or the Texicano. I was being a purist snob and just wanted the beef rib, but I stole a bite of my sister's sandwich and holy cow... Starve yourself the day before you visit, arrive early, and prepare to have a religious experience. read more

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Absolutely the best in SC. Everything is fresh and made on the spot. Lines moves quick so don't give up on the wait. Very friendly and helpful staff. Go hungry read more

After moving to Columbia in the spring and being somewhat of a BBQ snob my husband and I had to try City Limits. We have eaten BBQ all across the country and nothing was outstanding. The overall experience was average and the food was certainly not worth the wait. We were hopeful with all the hype, sorry to be disappointed. read more

Absolutely incredible bbq experience. I was blown away by every single menu item, literally everything was a must order. We came on a saturday early around 9, they typically open at 11 but there is always a line early. We wanted to be sure we would be able to order anything without having items sell out, it was 100% worth the wait and I would do it again. You can tell everyone who works here is genuinely passionate about the product and the experience. I would absolutely recommend coming here, it is a must if you are in the area. read more

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I moved to Columbia in June after living in central Texas for the past 3 and a half years, where I was exposed to some of the highest quality barbeque between Austin, DFW, Houston, and Lexington. What Robbie and the rest of the crew are doing here is nothing short of what the best of the best are doing out there (and exceeding them in certain areas). Before getting to the food, I love hearing Robbie come out and speak to the crowd before opening every morning. It speaks to his character and passion for his craft; something that is severely missing in this world today. Food is getting more expensive everywhere, but I will always cater to the place that is pouring themselves into every aspect of the food and the experience. While the Saturday menu is what most people love and know about barbecue (meats by the pound, beef ribs, etc), I love the different approach they are taking to the Sunday menu. Here you'll find house-made brisket hot dogs from their brisket trim topped with brisket chili, jalapeño slaw, mustard, and diced onions, a bahn mi packed with their sliced pork belly, and even some special Sunday proteins (this weekend was a yellow sauce pulled pork). Turning a scrap cut into a beautiful bite all on its own shows just how much they care about maxing out the product they are spending so much money on each week in order to deliver the best bite they can. Sure, the wait can be longer than you're used to, but in a world where we are so used to instantaneous gratification, do yourself a favor and enjoy the break with some friends, your family, or just yourself, and get some of the best barbeque you can find in the south. Don't skip the carrot cake. read more

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This place definitely has great bbq and every item was delicious. Although the wait was long, I didn't mind as it was all about the experience. Texas Brisket- would rival any Texas bbq outside of Texas but a little tougher than I've had in Texas. Pork Belly burnt ends- worth every penny Sausage- good but probably a one and done. Collard Greens- a million times yes Jalapeño slaw- incredible Hash & Rice- not a fan in general but this was super good Corn Bread- a must The reason for 4 instead of 5 stars is I'm rating this against Texas Bbq and not bbq in Columbia or South Carolina. read more

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The food here is amazing!! The chef is a James Beard finalist award winner. Be prepared to wait in line about 45mins. to an hour. It's well worth the wait. The menu varies from weekend to weekend but I have tried most everything they have served. The Texas Tater is a meal in itself. The brisket is absolutely fabulous. The made in house sausage is fantastic. The collards and shells and cheese is some of the best in town. The atmosphere is really laid back and the people are amazing. I am sure you will enjoy anything on the menu!!! read more

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Omg -- I LOVE this place! My husband and I live in Va., but we come to SC occasionally to visit our son, so of course we have to get our City Limits fix while we're there. Read Cary A.'s review -- it's spot-on. I'm typically not a big meat eater, but that changes when it comes to this place. Everything is smoky, tender, and just plain delicious. I had my first brisket hotdog this past Sunday, and I highly recommend it. I got it with their brisket chili, mustard and onions, but next time I'lll go all the way with a Slaw Dog. =) The sides are perfect as well. The collards are like my mama used to make, only 10x better (sorry, Mama). The green beans are cooked underneath the hog and have all that smoky pork goodness. The sweet beans are not like your regular baked beans, but more savory, with just a hint of sweetness. Really good. Save room for dessert, and get both! One is always carrot cake, and it's spectacular. Both are, really, and right now the second dessert is apple cobbler. This isn't a fast-food meal. Prepare to wait in line a bit, but you'll be well rewarded. Thank you, Robbie, for your hospitality! read more

I've been here three times and I have to admit it's by far the best BBQ I've had in S.C. I reviewed it after that visit and gave it a 5 star rating. I went back for my second visit on a Saturday morning and Arrived about 10:20 AM. They open at 11 a.m. and the owner came out and gave a talk on the menu items for the day explained how everything worked. They were also videotaping his comments for an ad or something on television. This took about 20 minutes so I don't think they actually started opening the doors till about 11:20 AM. Again the line was 20 or 30 people long and the wait was about an hour to get in the door. After both of these visits, I decided to try going in the afternoon at around 2-3 PM as he says the wait would be much shorter But some items may be sold out. So this past Saturday I decided to try one more time with neighbors. We arrived at 2:25 PM and found parking in the back and I was surprised that the line was still about 25 to 30 people long. The temperature outside was 103° according to the thermometer. They have Posted outside of the average wait time is 2 to 3 minutes per person. That may be Correct but it seems longer, as a few people that were in front of us seem to take much longer than three minutes and they had questions on the phone and what they wanted. They do have free water for people standing in line which is great we had about an hour wait in the heat. I was looking forward to ordering a half a chicken and also a Pulled and crispy pork sandwich. Unfortunately, And we were about 10 people from getting in. The door he said they were only 3 half chickens left. Once I got in the door and there were none left. They also were out of the crispy and pulled pork sandwiches because of lack of crispy to add to the Park. One of their sides was Esquistes (Mexican corn) But they were out of that also. I ended up ordering a pound of brisket to take home and a pulled pork sandwich along with a small side of lil Fritos chili and a side of Hoppin John. A pulled pork sandwich was very good, served with a nice bun, and they finally chopped Large amount of pork. I'm thinking it's probably 8 ounces of pork. The Hoppin John was excellent With the sea island, rice and red peas. I highly recommend that. The Lil Frito was also good. The brisket chili excellent along with the cheese with it. I actually couldn't finish a fourth of my bun so I took the pork out of my sandwich to finish eating it. As much as I like the food here, I'm not sure if I can return because of the long wait time and the fact that if you go in the afternoon, you'll get some food, but possibly not really what you were looking for. It's too bad that they aren't open more days of the week. I have posted that the reason for that is they spent most of the week making the food for us Saturday and Sunday. I Friends and I were talking about it and we're wondering how they can speed things up. A lot of customers order takeout food and we see several coming out with cardboard boxes with food in it. I can see if they would have phone number to call could call to place a pickup order 90% of their customers would just order takeout and come and pick it up, so that may not be the answer. We were thinking that if they were to have an employee go down the line and take orders for people that knew what they wanted, take their name and give them a ticket or a number that by the time they got to the register, they would have that food already prepared. I guess I would take more people working in the back, So I'm not sure if that would work for them either. Right now the employees are all great and talk to each customer to make sure they get exactly what they want. Bottom line Is this place is definitely a winner, but there Needs to be someway to improve the wait time since it's so popular. The food is great and it's definitely not cheap. A pound of brisket for $38 but it's great. I guess my next excursion will be to find some friend that's going out there and see if they can bring me back something As I don't think I can wait two hours to get in. The owner said this past weekend people are showing up at 9 AM to get in at 11 AM. So I'm only giving it four stars based only because of the fact it takes so long to get in and order your food. read more

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Outstanding BBQ--had their brisket along with some amazing sides. Will be back, and will be bringing family with us! read more

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Best bbq almost in the country!! See the awards they have gotten...2nd place in the nation!!

Ordered the pork belly burnt ends, half chicken, pork spare ribs, and the crispy pork chopped to go along with corn bread and pint of pimento cheese. Ranking the meat from best to average is burnt ends, crispy pork, chicken, and the ribs. The meat is definitely high quality and premium cuts. The burnt ends and crispy pork werr by far some of the best tasting meats. The burnt ends were in a sauce and had great flavor. The crispy pork was just great with the pieces of crunchy pork mixed with the soft meat. Both worth coming back for. The ribs while tender and good taste, I didn't really like the way they were cooked and not my preference. Chicken was also good but didn't stand out compared to the other meats I listed above. There are five sauces to choose from which is mustard, Alabama white, Carolina vinegar base, and two Texas red BBQ sauces that can be applied to the meats. I was going to order the apple cobbler but asked the guys which one they would choose between cornbread and cobbler and no hesitation they picked the cornbread. I ordered the cornbread and was a great choice and another highlight of the meal. I ordered 4 more to go after demolishing the corner piece! Lastly the pint of jalapeno sweet pimento cheese is really good to take with you. It is not spicy however but still very good and fresh. Luckily for me and others today there was a minor line that was just outside the entry door. Saturday is the only day you can get this so I would recommend this place to anyone in the Columbia or surrounding area. Probably one of the best BBQ in and around the area or in the state. Definitely not the cheapest but the quality is very high. Don't pass on this one day a week BBQ place. read more

City Limits Barbeque - Burnt ends, ribs, chopped crispy pork, smoked chicken, corn bread, jalapeno sweet pimento cheese - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

Delicious food, and incredibly friendly staff. Awesome pork bbq & hash, the best brisket outside of Texas, and on Sundays don't miss their house-made hot dogs with brisket chili. read more

City Limits Barbeque - Chopped pork barbecue with hash & rice, beans, onions, and pickles - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

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City Limits BBQ is the best BBQ I've ever had, and I grew up in the Carolinas, so that's saying something. They really know what they're doing here. The brisket is super tender and juicy. Their sauce selection is elaborate and taste like they're made in-house. Also highly recommend the peach cobbler (take it home and eat with some ice cream), but you really can't go wrong here with any of their dishes. On top of that, everyone there is super friendly, and the line moves fast. They often hand out free waters while you wait which is a thoughtful touch. Definitely a must-visit if you're in the are! read more

City Limits Barbeque - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

We were excited to finally get to try city limits barbecue at the hearing so many people rave about it for so long. I am almost positive that I attempted to make this post previously but here we go. The location is perfect for a barbecue spot. I'd come back time and time again based on the Customer service alone they are absolutely attentive and gives great definitions of the menu. The proteins are phenomenal. The chopped pork sandwich with crackling is a 10 out of 10 the brisket is phenomenal as well and it's not pictured their burnt ends are top-tier!!!!! The sides are good. Some of them just didn't stand up against the excellency of the proteins I had hoping John which was a slightly different variation than what I'm used to, but I felt it lacked in seasoning. The potato salad was solid, but it was missing something as well also. But with that being stated, the chopped pork sandwich will keep me coming back. Please know that they sell out so get there early! read more

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Absolutely met our expectations of great BBQ food! The wait time, atmosphere & customer service was great! Highly recommend if you're looking for good BBQ. read more

City Limits Barbeque - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

This was easily one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. The wait was long (2+ hours for that particular day), and it was worth every minute. The owner came out and talked to the crowds while we waited - this was a super unique and impactful experience for me. I loved hearing his explanation of the menu, how they approached things differently, and how special his team is. The proteins were incredible, particularly the sliced brisket. The barbecue with the crispy pieces has ruined all other barbecue for me moving forward, and I'm ok with that. The sauces were so good that we couldn't decide. We took home three and still add them to other dishes. Every interaction with the staff was top-notch and added to the experience. I loved the entire experience and how intentional the owners are in every piece of their business. Consider us raving fans! read more

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This place is so good. We moved here 7 months ago and went to an Aldi restaurant and we saw the line in a distance but didn't stop. But we were searching for a new place to eat and saw the reviews and tried it out. Man, this place is worth the wait. I suggest get on the line early ( 9am) or the meats will be out. It opens at 11am and close about 5 pm but I am telling you come early if you want to try the beef brisket, beef ribs( they are huge) and the wings! read more

Amazing food! Line over relatively quick and I have yet to not be able to get what I want. Owner is humble and keeps everyone informed when on line read more

amazing food. brisket sandwich was great and so was every single side. We came during a USC game and had no wait, so lucked out there. Definitely a place to come with a group and order some of everything. It was hard to walk to the car, I ate so much. Staff very chatty and kind. read more

Best bbq I've ever had. The pork sandwich with crispy skins and chop sauce is droll worthy. Carrot cake is out of this world too. It's not too sweet and perfectly balanced. read more

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Made some friends in line, was a long wait, worth it. I have only been a few times, it's special. I won't complain about the wait or the fact that a few things were sold out when I wanted to show up late. It's worth showing up early, or late. The food is delicious and the people are so nice. I've made my way around the menu and I will say there hasn't been a single thing I wouldn't have again. Get the chopped pork with crispy skins, try the lil frito at least once, that brisket chili is amazing. Once you clear the line and the anticipation falls off your bones you can settle into the space. You look around and see those faces that not long ago were anxiously awaiting in +90° heat, now smiling ear to ear relaxed as can be as they dash toward a food coma. I will say, considering the amount I've eaten every time I go there, it doesn't feel heavy or overwhelming. Don't know how they do it. read more

Waited in line over an hour(which we were prepared for), and the bill was $156, so I had some high expectations. But wow, got a 2.6lb rib(yes, 1 rib with over 2lbs of meat) it was tender, mouthwatering, dripping with juices. Best ribs Ive had, and I go far and wide for quality ribs. Before City Limits, my favorite beef ribs were found at Phil's BBQ in Temecula, CA. My wife and I had our wedding at a venue down the street so that we could have them cater. Glad that we don't have to travel to the West Coast for good ribs now. read more

Is this the holy grail of BBQ? YES! As first timers we were in unknown territory. When we arrived about 15 minutes after the Saturday 11:00am opening, the line to enter the modest, rustic two story building was about 20 people deep. And the line moved S-l-O-W-l-Y. Once inside the door things get better--grab a side (I got slaw and potato salad), beer or free water from the coolers and on to the meat slicer (where you order meat). We are ready to order--about 50 minutes after we arrived! Do not be discouraged! They have Sunday hours too! And Texas style beef ribs! These colossal ribs boast a nine or ten inch bone and copious amounts of tender, slow cooked heavenly meat. Think Mississippi pot roast but 2x the flavor. This is BBQ on another level. Don't get me wrong I like pork ribs, but these are a special treat. My wife had the chopped brisket and said it was the best she ever had ! All our sides were great, including the jalapeño coleslaw, potato salad, hash, and chili. In sum, the BBQ experience at City Limits is epic. Arrive early, and have patience. It is also worth noting that if you get beef ribs they are advertised as costing $40 per lb; however, because of their size and how they are portioned expect to pay for much more. We planned on buying a pound, but our ribs topped out at almost 4 pounds. Plenty of delicious meat for two. read more

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All though the wife and kid didn't enjoy waiting to get food. The food was worth it and they realized good things in life are worth waiting for. The food is amazing and looking forward to going back in the future read more

Food truck turned brick & mortar, this place is killing it with BBQ. Brisket is delicious and ribs are on point. The jalapeño slaw is the bomb...sweet, creamy, ...with just enough bite. Mac and cheese is really good as well. You stand in line for food and when they ate out...they're out. There are menus posted in two areas outside so that you can review the offerings for the day. They do all beef hot dogs in all styles only on Sundays and man, they are some delicious dogs. Looking forward to their expansion in the future. Great for take out as well! It's great to sit outside on their deck in spring and summer. I am not a big fam of BBQ in general, but their menu and flavors have me hooked...especially the hotdogs. Sick... right? read more

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Wonderful place. It's a long wait but the folks are the nicest I've ever met at a restaurant. Genuine and attentive. I can tell these folks love what they do and are always striving to improve. We came late so much of the food was sold out. The bahn mi was delicious and the spare ribs perfectly cooked. Will be back for sure ! read more

City Limits Barbeque - Bahn mi and spare ribs - Barbeque Near Me - West Columbia, South Carolina

I only recommend this place is you have a patience in a long line and are prepared to leave uncomfortably full. Went with a group so we could order tons of items and all of us were impressed. The pulled pork and hash and rice were my favorite. The pork belly also had an amazing flavor with a sticky glaze. Total line time was 1.5 hours on a football Saturday. read more

Trust me when I say this: Don't go there unless you love BBQ The brisket will melt in your mouth, the collards and mac are better than momma's, and you're going to wish you brought home more pulled pork. read more

Do not go on a Sunday. Long lines (spent 2hrs) and they begin to run out of food fast. Logistics is really bad as they take your order, first meat, then sides, then payment. Only 3 behind the line for eat in and take out. One taking the money. Its bottlenecks the entire process. A food is purchased 8n bulk and the reason the food runs out. Sorry, this has won awards but I believe it will be short lived as it has been for me. Oh then you have the owner come out side to tell people why they are backed up. Its like this on Saturdays and Sunday's. I'm not sure you want to stay in line for a hot dog. He was right I almost went to McD's. read more

We stood in line for an hour and a half to place our order only to be told of by a not so friendly staff we would have to wait even longer if we wanted less than the two pound short rib he offered . Not wanting to wait longer we accepted the two pound rib which cost us $76.( JUST for the rib) I doubt there was even a pound of meat after the bone and fat. The potato salad was undercooked and not very tasty. Now we know. read more

Food is excellent Brisket is on point. First time here definitely a fan will be back. Staff friendly and helpful with decisions on which protein to choose. Chopped BBQ reminds me of home Only open Saturdays and Sunday for lunch read more

Great service, Old country playing, outdoor patio seating ambiance and the Brisket is incredible food

Where to begin...everything is excellent. Not just good, or pretty good....excellent. The brisket rivals Franklin's and PRIME (yes, I've eaten at both). The...freaking...pulled pork . Get it chopped with chicaronnes and thank me later. NOTHING needs sauce (as it should be), but if you're inclined, their sauces are again, excellent. The hash and rice (no funky bits), baked and green beans, collards, etc....excellent. Then, friends, we come to the cornbread. HOLY F#$%ING MOLY! I'd fight someone for their cornbread. I know, it seems too good to be true, but I wouldn't waste your time or money telling you something different. Just go, and go early....cornbread goes fast. read more

Sunday Sunshine and BBQ today in Cola..I have had City Limits on my list to visit and today we had the pleasure of having an amazing lunch there. Don't let the line discourage you, it's more than worth the wait. Robbie did not disappoint with everything we had. We arrived about 45 minutes after they opened, and unfortunately the large group in front of us cleared out the chopped bbq and spare ribs...but the sweet guys managing the front gave us the last two ribs and a few slices of pork belly to try. We got the brisket dog,made in house of course,Sally's style with jalapeño coleslaw and brisket chili. We also got shells and cheese, Frito Pie, Brunswick stew, and a Pork Belly Banh Mi. I think I will probably dream about that pork belly. It was cooked perfectly and melt in your mouth tender. The honey cornbread literally tasted like dessert. I can't say enough great things about them and we can't wait to come back on Saturday to try all of the different bbq. They are only open Saturday and Sunday so come early before they run out! read more

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i am an ABSOLUTE raving fan!!! let's start with dundee , the owners son, who greats you as soon as your park and walks you to the door. dundee is AWESOME and is a gift of joy and enthusiasm. the entire family is involved whether it's greeting you or serving you in some capacity and i absolutely love it! there's some outdoor seating both upstairs and just outside the entrance. now, the entire reason for the five star rating, the food! everything is a la cart , so don't expect a "platter" option , just build your own this brisket is the absolute BEST i've ever had. it's sliced thick , seasoned well and has the absolute BEST smoke ring. their pork belly burnt ends (not in the video) are like having meat candy lol. the perfect balance of salty and sweet and they're absolutely tender with just the right amount of smoke flavor. their sides are amazing as well. whether it's the frito pie or the shells and cheese or their collards they absolutely don't miss. as if that's not enough, they make their own sauces and i am absolutely hooked. whether it's their take on a carolina gold or the alabama white or a vinegar mop sauce, they're ALL great! you can also get one ounce of each with your order and if you get hooked like i did, you can buy a bottle to go! chances are that you'll find me here on saturday mornings taking some time to myself or getting the meat sweats as i share this amazing experience with close friends / family. read more

This may be the best brisket I have ever had and we eat a ton of bbq!!! Flavorful fall apart meat that when you eat it you are immediately happy. Plus- all the sides we got: Mac n cheese, collards, potato salad and cornbread were superb!! We commented that it's unusual to find a bbq spot with both good meat and good sides-- but this place does it! Plus- the staff here are some of the nicest people ever! read more

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Our wait from the time we arrived until we paid was approximately an hour. Take out line should be seperate in my opinion. The service was professional and courteous. Very friendly staff. Personally that was the best part. Now to the food. We chose the chopped bbq with the crispy skins, the burt ends and rickey for the proteins We chose the collards, rice and hash and potato salad. Food scores: BBQ w/ Crispy skins : 8 Brisket: 6.5 Burt Ends: 4.5 Why these scores. Chopped BBW w/ Crispy Skins: Good and the crispy skins added a great taste. Brisket: Greasy but moist. Burt Ends. Fat, fat and more fat with a side of grease. Potato Salad: 6 Collards: 5 Rush and Hash: 8 Potato Salad: Very bland. Collards: More stems than greens. Rush and Hash: Good taste and texture. Overall the experience was a 6. read more