In need of a family friendly, late lunch during our trip to Charleston, my wife and I chose Lewis Barbecue. The restaurant seems quite popular as evidenced by the line at the relatively off hours of Friday at 2:00PM. Fortunately, the queue moved expediently and we were ordering in less than 10 minutes. The service model is standard in that you wait on line, order your meats, and seat yourself. The dining room and outdoor patio at Lewis are very large and provide ample seating. The ambience is clean but still hews classic with wood accents and butcher paper serving as your plate. We ended up sitting at the bar as we wanted to enjoy one of the many well curated local beers Lewis offers on tap. Bonus points for having bar height high chairs for our little one. We opted to sample four meats and three sides. This amount of food proved perfect for the two of us and our hungry 14 month old. All of the meats carried a discernible smoky taste and aroma with meltingly tender textures and ample seasoning. We enjoyed the meaty pork ribs and tender brisket the most, but everything we sampled had merit. The meats do not need sauce, strictly speaking, though you'd be remiss to pass on Lewis' Tex-Mex infused tasty condiments, which complement all of the meats rather well. The sides also were excellent. The justifiably famous sweet and slightly spicy corn pudding acted as the star, with generous helpings of tangy collards and not excessively creamy potato salad rounding out our meal. Our total for food was less that $60, a very decent value for the quality and quantity. While ultimately a counter service joint, the service here was friendly enough both at the checkout and bar to warrant mention. Everyone seemed genuinely happy to be doing what they were doing and treated us kindly. Overall, for tasty fare, good value, and warm service, this is an easy 5 star rating for barbecue in Charleston. read more

10/10 food. No notes. I'd eat those ribs and green chile corn bread as my last meal in every life time. The service was just good. Just counter service, friendly staff. The restaurant is massive and is full of seating so we found a perfect table inside very quickly! read more

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The fries smh I couldn't believe there were like 7 fries in an order and I had two orders. I couldn't believe it. I normally love the fries and I always got more than 7 in an order so I don't know what's up. Idk if it was because it was take out or what, but this was unacceptable. Everything else was good. Just be consistent the amount of fries. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Order #1 - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Had another wonderful dinner at Lewis BBQ and it was as delicious as ever. With the line to the door, we enjoyed a beer while waiting. It moved fast enough and before we knew it we were ordering. Inside was lively with everyone enjoying their meal. Seating can be a challenge at first, but there are many options. For this visit we enjoyed the sliced brisket, pulled pork, a slice of turkey, and a link of hot guts. Best bites were the moist brisket and pulled porm. We also had sides of mac & cheese and pinto beans. Lewis is one of a kind in Charleston, absolutely the best BBQ around. I always recommend Lewis to visiting friends and co-workers. Go and enjoy. read more

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08/07/2026 My uncle had recommended this BBQ spot on our Charleston trip. It received a Michelin Bib Gourmand last year, so I was very excited to try it. Some family got there right when they opened at 11:00am to ensure that we could get some sliced prime brisket sandwiches because it usually sells out quickly. My group got there a bit late. Everyone was already eating, so I didn't get any pictures of the massive feast we had. They had ordered a bunch of sandwiches, ribs, green chile corn pudding, mac & cheese, sidewinder fries, and more. The brisket sandwich definitely lived up to the hype. I really liked that the fries were cooked in beef tallow. The other sides were delicious too. As we were leaving, there were extremely long lines to order at the counter. The place was jam packed and felt so chaotic. I definitely recommend getting here early. read more

Finally got to Lewis BBQ! Went in on a Wednesday night around 7:30. We found street parking about a block away. The parking lot is not very big. There was a line but it moved fairly quickly. Maybe 20 minutes. Food is ordered at the counter and your tray of loveliness is prepared right before your eyes. You order meats first then move down to another person who does the sides. Very efficient process. See my pic, I got a variety of meats and they were all excellent - chopped brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs and a Green Chile cheddar sausage. One knock - I wish they had more vegetable sides. I got the collards. They were very good. Highly recommend!! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Brisket (Chopped), Pulled Pork, Pork Spare Ribs, Sausage, collards, pickles - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Lewis's was amazing barbecue right in the heart of Charleston. Honestly, it was definitely not what I expected to find in the middle of such a tourist-centered area. The ordering process is a little hectic as you work your way toward the counter, but the server waiting at the end was incredibly helpful and offered some great suggestions for our party of six. The brisket and ribs were phenomenal, and there were plenty of sauce options to satisfy everyone. And the fries? Cooked in tallow. Everyone knows that's the best way to make a fry! We sat outside, and as a family visiting from Wisconsin, why wouldn't we take advantage of every outdoor dining opportunity we can get? Lewis's is definitely a get-your-fingers-dirty kind of barbecue experience, and that's exactly how it should be. Great food, good atmosphere, and a place I'd definitely consider visiting again read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Perfection as usual! Ordered old faithful and tried the green chile cheddar sausage which was delicious! No wonder they ate a too 100 Yelp rated place to eat! read more

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We went on a Saturday night and it was Labor Day weekend at about 7 PM. The line was out the door and into the parking lot. We waited for one hour in line, but it was totally worth it! Everything we had was delicious and I had read the potato salad was amazing but after I tried it myself, I can confirm so so good! The food pictured was about $50. They have a help yourself station to the sauces and they give you the pickled onions, pickles, and bread. We sat outside at the picnic tables and enjoyed our dinner and the atmosphere. I was visiting from out of town, but would definitely go back next time i'm there. We had lots of leftovers and enjoyed it all just as much the next day. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Smoked turkey, chopped brisket, Mac & cheese, potato salad, pinto beans - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

We stopped in, as we've done every time we've come to Charleston. Since we found out about Louis's, this time we ordered a half a pound of the brisket. The young lady who took our order educated us on the lean versus the fatty. We went with middle of the road. She gave us samples, and it definitely sold us on it. We ordered a side of fries along with the side of queso. We split the plate, and it's really, really good. Definitely enough food for the two of us. It was nice and tender. Fries were nice and crisp. The queso cheese sauce really took it over the top. The brisket didn't need the barbecue sauce, but it was a good complement to it. The line wasn't out the door, which was good for us. Got in, got our order, and found us a table. Nice clean atmosphere and great staff, as always. I'm definitely going to give it a 4 out of 5. The only thing that would have taken it to a 5 out of 5 is if the bark on the brisket had a little bit more flavor, with a little bit less salt to it. Other than that, it was an amazing meal. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

We waited 20 and the wailt was worth it we got brisket Mac and cheese and pork and fires and nachos and it was all good the brisket was not fatty and good stuff the fries were crispy and good and the vibe was good I like how they will palying football on the tvs and I got a good hot sublet and it was good I would rate it 10/10 read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

We got here just after opening on a Sunday during the summer while visiting some friends - we walked RIGHT up to the counter, hardly 5 seconds wait; service was fantastic they got us our meal VERY fast. Originally we sat outside (they have small fans on the tables for the flies but honestly we didn't need them). Then the husbands found seats inside the AC. It was a little loud inside but definitely good vibes - the kids loved it here. For two small families (4 adults 2 kids) we ordered 1.5 lbs brisket, 1.5lbs turkey, 1.5 of the ribs (which were our favorite!! Fall OFF THE BONE and beautifully seasoned) and 1/2 pound of the chopped up brisket. Personally I loved the brisket the best - great flavor and the perfect mix of lean to moist ratio. There was someone walking around asking us how our meals were and cleaning the tables (which isn't out of the ordinary) but I especially liked that he picked up the floor after a family of 4 that was quite messy - and he did it with a smile on his face! THATS A WIN!!! I love employees who love their job Only concern we had *giggles* was after my friends found out I was a yelper, they asked me to include that they would like a handle on the to-go bags. DONT FORGET to try the sweet tea!! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Bar - 2026 - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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The brisket here is as good as any I've tasted outside of Texas. Top three now consists of Lewis BBQ, Little Miss BBQ (Phoenix), and the recently closed Horn BBq (Oakland). Beef is super tender with a spicy /peppery bark. Just perfect. Lewis considers itself a Texas-style joint, but don't sleep on the pull pork, which was also incredible. Fantastic sauces, top (special shout out to you, Mustard sauce). Add in friendly staff and fair prices and its a total must visit. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Line was long but it moved super fast. They don't offer combos or dinners, everything is ordered individually, and it adds up FAST but it qas soo worth it! I'm not a big bbq fan, we were here for my husband, but I must admit I enjoyed EVERYTHING, I think this was the best bbq I've ever had st s restaurant! The drinks & utensils are self serve, but the staff taking your order at the counter were very friendly & knowledgeable. We will definitely return when we're visiting Charleston. read more

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By far some of the best bbq that we've tasted . the brisket and pulled pork were fantastic! Fun place will def go back! read more

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Went with a group of four for lunch. The folks I was with are long time residents and they chose without consulting me. Lol, they know good food! It was just after 12 noon and by some miracle we only stood in line about ten minutes. The rush came in shortly after although I will say they handle the crowds beautifully. When it comes to barbecue, I am a pulled pork girl and I have lived in Texas! I don't hate on brisket, but none of it has bowled me over. Until today. Once again, I wasn't ordering so I just went with the flow. That chopped brisket sandwich was so moist and full of flavor that it did not need a DROP of barbecue sauce. I did use the sauce to dip my fries in. I don't often eat macaroni and cheese although I do love it ( my hips don't!) but I had to try it or risk the wrath of my lunch companions. It was delicious! The best I have had in a restaurant. Collards were fresh and tasty. I enjoyed the rustic setting and certainly the company. They can choose dining spots for me anytime! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Delicious! - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Great spot. Visiting from our of town, came across it on YELP. Plenty of parking in lot along with street parking. Seating both inside and out. Some of the best BBQ I have eaten... ordered Brisket, Brisket Sandwich, greens, mac & cheese and beans....all items had great flavor... All of the staff was friendly and professional. read more

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I'm still craving the Brisket after a week. First time going, I will definitely be back with family and friends. Such great spot- causal and family friendly. Different places to sit, inside or outside. This is a popular spot, I was surprised at how busy it got on a Monday at 1pm. The food truly is amazing,and the sauces you can add enhance the flavors! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Prime Beef Brisket, Pork Spare Ribs, Sausage, Cowboy Pinto Beans with Pico on top, Tangy Coleslaw with some onions and pickles on the side. - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

We planned all of our dinner reservations for our Charleston foodie trip, so I let my husband pick where we went for lunches. He chose Lewis Barbecue, and while I'm not usually a huge BBQ person, this might be the best BBQ I've ever had. It's a Bib Gourmand-rated spot, and I can definitely see why. The service at the carving counter was great, and all of the sides were so good. I especially loved the mac and cheese, and the potato salad was absolutely bomb--creamy, a little tangy, and one of my favorite things we ordered. The free pickles were also a nice touch. The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the ribs practically fell off the bone. Everything was flavorful without feeling too heavy. I honestly wasn't expecting to enjoy it as much as I did, but this ended up being one of my favorite lunches of the trip. I'd definitely come back the next time I'm in Charleston. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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The hype is real. The food here is unbelievable. The Michelin star is well deserved. If I were on death row, this would be part of my last meal! My husband and I came here for lunch. The line was out the door but moved quickly. Once inside, the sign on the wall encourages you to grab a beer from the bar to drink while you wait, which we did - great idea! We got the following to share: brisket, ribs, a hot sausage link, coleslaw and mac & cheese. The flavor of the meat tasted like Jesus himself made it AND blessed it before giving it to me. The texture is so tender that you don't even need teeth to eat it. The meat effortlessly fell off the rib bone as soon as it touched my lips! And those sides!! BEST mac & cheese and coleslaw I've ever had anywhere in my life. The coleslaw had very thin sliced green pepper in it (which I loved) and was also the perfect consistency of not-too-wet and not-too-dry. I don't know if it would be possible to make the mac & cheese any creamier or dreamier than it already is; I could have eaten a bucket of it! I already can't wait to come back here again!! :) read more

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This place is a Michelin star restaurant for a reason!! Probably the best food I had in Charleston! The brisket and cornbread were amazing! Also for a Michelin star restaurant the prices were so fair for the amount of food you get and how great it is!! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Cornbread - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Meh, I don't get the hype. Parking is terrible and food is just not great. The pulled pork tastes like it's been soaked in vinegar, collard greens were way too sweet and potato salad was unremarkable. The sliced brisket and Mac and cheese were good. More than half of our food was leftover and I had no desire to take anything with us. Skip. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Damn good ribs. Juicy, peppery and cooked perfectly. I love that the ribs don't fall off the bone. They have a slight bite that keeps the fat from being too soft. Very slightly sweet, not at all overwhelming. I got all four sauces and only tried 2 as the ribs didn't need them. I say this as a lover of bbq sauce. The service was great, the sweet tea warm and not too sweet. The downside is that the line moves a bit slow. Thankfully I got here with only one family in front of me. Still, it took a few minutes to get to the register. Also, there were no napkins on the table. On the good side, there's plenty of seating and WiFi! The restaurant is very spacious. I recommend this restaurant and hope to come back so that I can try some more bbq! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Pork Spare Ribs - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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This place is so good I had to come back the next day! I came on Saturday specifically to try their giant beef short ribs that literally falls off the bone. The beef short ribs are only done by the lb and you can't do a 1/2 lb in case anyone is wondering. This is by far my favorite besides the fatty brisket they serve every day. Food was amazing and of course I had to get their banana pudding pie again! Literally heaven in my mouth. Shoutout to Derick he was working the patio and was cool. Made my experience here even sweeter. read more

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What an awesome first meal to kickstart our trip to Charleston. The moment we arrived and stepped out of our vehicle, the barbeque aroma filled our senses and left our mouths watering with anticipation. Ordering at the counter was an experience in itself. It's apparently common for barbeque places to allow customers to order meat by the pound and have it weighed and sliced to order in front of you, but the only times I've experienced that in Connecticut was at the deli section of Shop Rite. They allowed me to sample the brisket as they sliced it (absolutely delicious and melt-in-your mouth tender by the way) and made thoughtful suggestions, such as adding pickles and onions on the side (gratis) to provide balance and counter the heaviness of the meats. I wanted to try a variety of dishes, and decided to go with a 1/2 pound of brisket and ribs, a link of Texas hot guts sausage, and a side of Mac and cheese. That covered maybe 5% of the menu. There's a lot of options to choose from, in addition to rotating daily specials, presenting the opportunity for multiple return visits. They have a dedicated full service bar, and I imagine this as a fun spot to spend a night. The atmosphere is very inviting and casual, and the vibe eating outside is like having a backyard barbeque. If you prefer indoor dining, they have a large industrial interior that can accommodate a party of any size. Overall we enjoyed our meal very much. We left with our bellies full and our clothes smelling of smoky goodness. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Sliced brisket, ribs, Texas hot guts, and Mac and cheese - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Lewis BBQ is everything that it is hyped up to be. We got the ribs, pinto beans, fried fingerlings, and collard greens. The ribs are so tender and meaty! The sauce was kinda thin but still tasty. The greens were sweet, but tender and delicious. Just different than what I'm used to. The pinto beans are savory. You get a few pickles and pickled onions. The service was excellent. We were greeted with a smile and since it was our first time there they talked through how to order. It's a great casual dining experience. You can try all the different sauces too. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Ribs, pinto beans, fingerling fries, collard greens. - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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I had heard about this barbecue joint all the way in Columbia and when I came down to Charleston for work, I knew I had to try it. The line was super long and it took about 30 to 45 minutes to get to ordering. The staff was great and attentive, and I really liked the barbecue dispensers in the Beverage dispensers. That was a fun twist! I got a brisket platter and everything on it was fantastic. The brisket would melt in your mouth and every bite was extremely good, they definitely deserve that Michelin star. If you're willing to wait a while, this is some of the best barbecue in South Carolina read more

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​Amazing! If you are anywhere near Charleston and haven't been to Lewis Barbecue, it definitely should be your 1st stop! This place isnt hype. Yes there was a long ass line, waited probably 45 mins - 1 hr before we got to order. So bring your patience! Service: 5/5 Omg the sweetest and nicest people I've meet. Probably the owner but staff was friendly too Food: 5/5 So delicious wish I could have ordered everything. Ambiance: 5/5 Indoor and outdoor seating. Very welcoming. From the west coast and wish there was this place there! But I would fly back just for the barbecue :) read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

I didn't even know I liked BBQ that much until I went to Lewis Barbecue. This place completely blew me away. The setup is amazing--you walk up, choose from a huge spread of meats, and everything is weighed so you can build your perfect plate! We went all in and ordered ribs, brisket, and pulled pork, and every single bite was insanely flavorful and smoky in the best way. The brisket was especially incredible--super tender and packed with flavor. They also have a bunch of different sauces and salsas you can dip into, which makes trying everything even more fun. The jalapeño cheddar queso was the perfect addition to all the meats--rich, cheesy, and with just the right kick. For sides we got mac and cheese, collards, pickled onions, pickles, and bread, and everything paired perfectly with the BBQ. The whole experience felt like a BBQ feast, and it's easy to see why this spot is so famous. If you're in Charleston, Lewis Barbecue is an absolute must! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Came here for my birthday dinner and my first BBQ experience in CHS. It was 10/10 all around. All meats were moist and flavorful and the sides were great; specifically the corn pudding, but the Mac was also amazing. Servers were very friendly and the food took no time at all to be plated. There is a bar to the side and I tried the Sandia which was also great. All around good experience and I'll definitely be back read more

Lewis Barbecue - Brisket (Chopped), Pork Spare Ribs, Mac & Cheese, fries, Green Chile Corn Pudding - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Lewis Barbeque does not need this review at all but just have to acknowledge their amazing food. Charleston has quite a few wonderful BBQ places to choose from but by far this is our favorite! The main meats are awesome (Briskett, Ribs, Pulled Pork) AND the sides are amazing. The coleslaw is not drenched in mayo like most places do but is crisp, fresh and tasty! The Cornbread is amazing! Don't complain- there are usually long lines to place your order but factor that in so you are not starving:) read more

Lewis Barbecue - Michelin rated! - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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The best BBQ in America. I stop here everytime I come to Charleston. Food is always on, cooked the same and seasoned the same. They added seating, as well as, plenty of seating outside. The also added automatic rotating bug fans on each table outside. The service can be backed up, as the crowds come. Don't worry as you will get through the line as they usually have 2 sides to check out, one to the left and one to the right and they are active most of the time. Average cost can range from $50-$100 depending on how much and variety of meats you get. read more

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Everything they said was true. It was 100% worth the wait in the long line on Saturday at lunchtime. The line moved pretty quickly and the place is really big, so there was no trouble finding a place to sit once we made it through the line and got our tray. Plus the setup makes it super convenient to grab a beer or soda at the bar to sip while waiting in line. When they ask if you want pickles and onions, just say yes! The brisket.... Mmmmmm. Still dreaming of it. Brought some home and fought over the last slice. All the sides were delicious--the corn pudding is not to be missed! We forgot to order icebox pie for dessert but were so stuffed we couldn't have eaten it anyhow. Next time! read more

Lewis Barbecue - Brisket, sausages, corn pudding, mac and cheese, potato salad. - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Food: excellent!! Ambiance: very casual. Indoor and outdoor seating. Service: counter service. The folks were really nice and helpful. I've been wanting to go to this place for a while and we finally got to go this past weekend. The line was so long. It was out the door and nearly into the parking lot, but it moved quickly. When we reached the counter to order, the folks were really nice, very helpful : explaining all the dishes. I got the pulled pork and my partner got the chopped brisket sandwich. The fries were phenomenal. The sandwiches were phenomenal. The bread was just excellent on the sandwiches. We also got the coleslaw - now coleslaw is a very specific kind of food - either it is made it to your liking or not. In this particular case I did not like the coleslaw because it was salty and vinegary. I like the sweet chopped KFC style, personally. I would definitely recommend going to this place if you've never been. We are returning read more

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Some of the best BBQ I've ever had. The brisket was absolutely incredible--tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. Everything was quick and easy to order, even with how busy the place was. The sides were great too, but the brisket was easily the star. If you're in Charleston and love BBQ, Lewis is a must. I'd absolutely come back. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

Went for dinner on a Thursday and the line was super long. It moves relatively quickly and the longest part of the wait is indoors (where it's air-conditioned and you can get beer or a drink while you're waiting) is it isn't too terrible. Even with the long wait times though the food was definitely worth it. This was probably some of the most tender and juicy brisket I've ever had in my life. The ribs fall right off the bone. The sausage has a good snap when you bite into it. And all of the sauces taste amazing. Really can't say anything bad about anything on my tray. I love that they have local beers here. They had a special green sour which was sweeter than I was expecting but a nice change of pace from a traditional beer. read more

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Wait on line, then hint for a table, then.. Enjoy the best BBQ of your life! Really high quality smoked meats and delicious sides! Two of us went on a Friday evening, and the line was long, but all inside, and we only waited about 15 minutes total. Order at the counter and move along for sides & beverages - cafeteria style. We both had the Friday special which was a smoked prime rib sandwich with tons of (optional) toppings. Delicious! We had no trouble finding seats inside. Staff was very friendly. Family-friendly place. Our second time here, and we'll be back again for sure. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Cafeteria-style indoor goodness! - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

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Best food experience I've had in Charleston -- even though there was an issue towards the end of my visit (more on that later). Yes, there will be a line to wait in during prime meal hours. But it's worth the wait. There's also complimentary water available just inside the door, and you can order a beer or drink at the bar to sip on while you wait. Counter staff are courteous and helpful. They even provided an extra bite of brisket for me to munch on while prepping my order. A half-pound of brisket, moist, was my selection, and it needed no sauce at all for the meat and the cooking method stood on their own. All the traditional Texas accoutrements were provided as well (hooray) and I added some creamy macaroni & cheese to finish off my plate. It all came at a reasonable price too, one of the few instances in Charleston where I felt like I was getting my money's worth at a restaurant. There's covered outdoor seating as well as lots of tables, booths and counter options inside, so even as busy as things were I had a surprising number of options on where to dine. The space was kept clean and near by swarming staff members...which leads to my only issue. When I got up to grab another beverage, the quick thinking bussers took away my plate before I was completely done! Aside from that faux pas, I strongly recommend visiting the Lewis operation. Genuine Texas style barbecue experience (including Shiner on draft!) coupled with efficient, welcoming service is a winning combination in my book. read more

My first time in Charleston and found Lewis Barbecue. It was awesome! The most tender and flavorful brisket I have ever had. read more

Lewis Barbecue - Brisket (Chopped) with macaroni and cheese - Barbeque Near Me - Charleston, South Carolina

My wife and I go to Lewis Barbecue almost every Sunday. We love the food--obviously--and the fatty brisket is an absolute must, but the staff is what truly makes this place special. If you show up and there's a long line, don't get discouraged. It moves quickly, and it's well worth the wait. Grab a drink from the bar and make some friends while you're in line. Welcome to Charleston--now enjoy some of the best barbecue around. You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu! read more