I rarely leave reviews like this, but after our experience at Wholly Smokin' BBQ & Ribs, it feels warranted. After driving 15 hours on March 21, 2026, my husband and I were genuinely excited to try this place and planned to take our food back to the hotel. Unfortunately, the experience started off poorly and never really recovered. First, parking is extremely limited out front, which is frustrating when you're tired and just want a quick pickup. Inside, things only got worse. The front-of-house staff was shockingly unprofessional. The employee helping us clearly didn't understand her job and had to be corrected multiple times by another staff member--something no customer should have to witness. It created confusion, delays, and zero confidence in our order. We paid about $50 for a sampler, which is not cheap, and yet the same employee argued about giving us the sides because she entered the order incorrectly. If another, more competent employee hadn't stepped in, I'm convinced it would have escalated further. Even then, we never received one of the four sides we paid for. To make matters worse, we were never asked if we wanted drinks to go, and we weren't given plates, silverware, or even BBQ sauce--basic essentials for a takeout order. That's just unacceptable. While waiting, we also watched this same employee tell three separate dine-in families to go sit and wait while she stood there rolling silverware. Completely rude and dismissive. If I had been one of those customers, I would have walked out. This is the first impression customers get, and it's a terrible reflection of how the place is run. Between the disorganization, poor communication, and outright unfriendly behavior, the service was a mess. The only reason this isn't a one-star review is because the food itself was actually very good. The burnt ends and ribs were the standout--absolutely delicious. But great BBQ can't fully make up for such a frustrating and poorly managed customer experience. read more

We stopped by while passing through South Carolina during a roadtrip and I'm so glad we did!! Our server **Johnathan** completely made the experience. He was SO hospitable, sweet and genuinely welcoming. He gave great recommendations and did not steer us wrong. These days, it's not always easy to come across service like that, which made it even more appreciated. I ordered the Sunset Blush drink and it was delicious. We also got the cornbread and I'm not exaggerating when I say it was the BEST cornbread I've ever had. So soft and flavorful. The brisket sandwich was a little dry (could be because we went during closing) but still had really good flavor. The mac and cheese though... WOW. I am very picky with mac and cheese and most places miss the mark, but this tasted homemade. Easily a 10/10. My husband got the peach bourbon burger and said it was great. The kids ate everything in sight which is always a win...lastly the cinnamon roll cheesecake for dessert... phenomenal!!! Overall such a great experience and I'm really glad we stopped in! read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Cornbread ...MUST TRY!!! - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

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Been a BBQ week that is for sure. Second BBQ restaurant in two days. Customers swing from Mexican to BBQ and this week is a BBQ week for sure. Very nice clean looking restaurant. Service was spectacular and the sweet tea was legendary. The sides were all excellent. I had the burnt ends were delicious as well. read more

The service was excellent. Parking is easy and close. I was able to sit down immediately. The food was great and a must try. BBQ in Florence done right read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Two meat plate Brisket and Pull pork - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

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For a bbq place it's refreshing to have one that is so in-touch with food allergies. The menu is clearly marked "GF", and it's quite an extensive option. Service was prompt even though it got steadily busier into the evening. The place was well kept and had a warm atmosphere. read more

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We were nearby this town for a trip and we chose this place after a long day. We are so GLAD that we chose this. This place on a Sunday afternoon was quiet and quaint and full of flavor in their food. Most of the party ordered the burnt ends wrap with fries. They all loved the wrap and the fries were crispy/hot/salty. Everything you want fries to be. I ordered the quesadilla - pulled pork. I think you can also order a chicken option. The cheese in the quesadilla is pimento cheese and it was everything and more. They do have a salsa that is corn and beans - I am not a huge fan of beans so I did try to eat around it - it does come on the side. It is an appetizer/shareable but I got it as a meal and it was DELICIOUS. This place is a great stop!! Must try. read more

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Looking at the menu online, I was expecting a standard decent-but-basic stop for lunch. What a delight to find such a thoughtful, quality place. From the decor to the servers to the fact that there was live music playing when we walked in, it was a great surprise. They were serving barbecue brunch when we arrived, but also had their regular fare. The chicken bog was simple and tasty. The mac & cheese, fried okra, and collard greens were the standouts for our visit. We didn't end up trying the barbecue itself. Next time we're back in this part of the world I'll look forward to some burnt ends. Thanks, team! read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Front door - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

This place was amazing. Went down with my husband to South Carolina on a whim for our anniversary. I found this place on Yelp as we both wanted bbq it was phenomenal. The service and food. We got the fried green tomato's with pimento cheese and red pepper bacon jelly. It was so tasty. Then I got the pulled pork platter with collards and warm potato salad my husband got the ribs with Mac and cheese and potato salad. Everything was so good I hope I can go back one day. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Menu - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

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As much and as long as I have been wanting Wholly Smokin BBQ I am wholly disappointed. The chicken was old/dry with no skin at all. Usually when you order a 1/4 chicken the leg and thigh are one piece. Nope two little pieces of dried chicken. The potato salad which I use to love had no taste at all. Well another restaurant bites the dust. read more

if i could bump this up to give a half star i would here's the breakdown of the experience and ratings to match wholly smokin' is a dope spot in downtown florence. i'm sure it wasn't as busy on a saturday night due to the race being in town but i was a little nervous coming in and only seeing three tables seated during prime dining hours. the aesthetic is signature southern BBQ, no frills with tons of accolades on the wall. our server was absolutely amazing! she'd been with the restaurant for years and gave great recommendations as well as being knowledgeable about the menu and providing excellent service. the food is where we find the struggle i knew i was in for a tough time once the plate hit the table. i think im going to give up on trying brisket at larger establishments. this brisket was tougher than shoe leather and it was sliced thin. it was dusted with some great spice rub and served with au jous but neither one of those things could save it. brisket was a 0/5 the burnt ends were ok but were on the tough and dry side as well. the sauce made up for it but it lacked tenderness. burnt ends were 1/5 the pulled pork was ok. it definitely needed sauce as was on the colder side upon arrival at the table. pulled pork was 1/5 now the star of the show were the sides and the dessert that wasn't pictured the spicy baked beans were AMAZING! i'm usually reluctant to order baked beans because they're just a sugary smushy mess but these were great! they had a great kick to them as well as great texture. beans were 5/5. the collards were amazing as well. vinegary and bright with a good little bit of spice to them. they were cut on the larger side but i'm good with that. collards were a 5/5 overall it's a dope spot and i might come back just for the sides. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - 3 Meat Sampler - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

Just enjoyed a fantastic lunch at Wholly Smokes. I've rarely given five stars but this place exceeded expectations and deserves every star. It's a cute barbecue joint right downtown with on-street parking. Our food was served promptly and piping hot. The menu offers a number of great options at better than reasonable prices considering the portion size. Our server Tim, was attentive and his recommendations were spot on. If you find yourself in Florence SC and you like barbecue, don't miss this spot - Best of the Best. read more

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I stopped in at lunchtime and had the burnt ends sandwich, mac & cheese, and fried green tomatoes. The fried green tomatoes were the best I've ever had! The mac & cheese was good, but nothing special. The burnt ends sandwich was good. I would have liked a little more smoky flavor to it. But I would definitely eat here again when in Florence. Service was OK but no one really checked in to see how my meal was. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Fried green tomatoes - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

We were passing through Florence, SC on our way to the beach, and I was so excited for my friend (visiting from Wisconsin) to try some real Southern BBQ. After checking reviews, we decided to stop at Wholly Smokin' BBQ, and while the food, unfortunately, missed the mark for us, I cannot say enough good things about our server, Infinite. Let me be clear--Infinite is hands-down one of the best bartender/servers I've ever encountered. He was welcoming, engaging, attentive, and brought such a warm and genuine energy to our visit. If I were rating service alone, this would be a 5-star review without hesitation. Full stop. Now, about the food--we ordered the 2-meat sampler with burnt ends and a 1/2 rack of ribs, along with mac & cheese and the creamy slaw. Sadly, everything was underwhelming. The ribs were tough and overcooked--nowhere near the "fall-off-the-bone" experience you expect from Southern BBQ. I couldn't even cut them easily with a knife. The slaw had a strange aftertaste, and the mac and cheese lacked flavor and creaminess--it just felt flat. We told Infinite everything was "fine" at the time because he was so attentive and kind, and we genuinely appreciated his service. But in all honesty, the food did not live up to the hype. That said--if you're in town, I still recommend grabbing a drink at the bar, especially if Infinite is working. His service alone made the stop worthwhile. But absolutely skip what we ordered. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - 2-meat sampler with burnt ends and a 1/2 rack of ribs, along with mac & cheese and the creamy slaw. - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

Came here on Wednesday night, only a handful of patrons. They have a nice selection of craft drafts and I started with a flight of beer. Had the two meat platter. I chose the pulled pork (very good) and burnt ends (not so much). The burnt ends came soaked in a sauce that tasted like a combination of barbecue sauce and mole sauce - these were definitely a disappointment. Both my sides, coleslaw and spicy beans, were tasty. Got a banana puddin' for dessert and IMO, it was the star of the show. read more

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Our waitress was incredibly sweet, ensured we had everything we needed and even entertained my random questions and commentary. She also made sure to check in often while passing to make sure that our table was fine and didn't need anything extra. The sandwich I ordered was definitely something I would order again, it was freshly cooked so the chicken was very hot as you were biting into it. The spice level was surprisingly comforting considering I have a moderate spice tolerance, not too high and not too low. The sweet tea they served us was very fresh and tasted delicious. I would definitely recommend. The ambiance was fairly homey, it wasn't quite nor loud and it felt like you were just a piece in a crowd, it was very nice. Overall, I can see myself recommending and returning to this restaurant on a later date. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Nashville HOT Fried Chicken Sandwich Combo (3 fried chicken tenders, tossed in Nashville HOT sauce), with a side of Mac & Cheese - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

Nice stop off on our drive for an early dinner. The staff is very friendly and prompt. The restaurant itself was spacious, good music that wasn't too loud. We got an order of the corn bread, which was amazing. I ordered the chicken salad plate. I liked that they had this option that wasn't too heavy. A decent portion of chicken salad with some greens, strawberries and grapes with some crackers. The chicken salad itself was good but I tend to prefer chicken salad only lightly coated with mayo/dressing, etc. read more

Best southern food - peach cobbler was the perfect dessert and I'm so glad I went. Truly an amazing experience

Doing my Yelp search while traveling for business and choose this jewel. Arrived for a late lunch and establishment was not too crowded. Was able to be seated outside to enjoy sunshine and decompress time. Met the owner on my arrival, who seemed to be a charming lady who expressed genuine appreciation for being there. The bartender/my server was better than a x10 star rating! His name is Infinity (please forgive if there is a misspelling). So polite, attentive and on point with the entire experience. My order was bbq nachos and deviled eggs (they were fantastic!). If ever back in town, I'll be sure to return! read more

Best bbq, Dargan devil eggs are scrumptious and the best collards ! Always enjoy my sit downs and takeouts. Only way WHS bbq so yummy

Service was okay, food was fantastic! I wouldn't bring children recommended if you're looking for some cozy bbq

Food- always good. Service- always good. Draft beer- full price for a 12oz. pour. Good local selection. read more

Stopped here for a quick lunch during work. This place gives really cool vibes. I was immediately impressed walking in. Wasn't sure what to expect from the outside, but the inside exceeded expectations! The decor and atmosphere are great. There are tons of places to sit whether you want to be inside or outside. The service was fast and friendly. Now for the food We didn't have to wait long at all after we placed our order. The warm loaded baked potato salad is something I've never tasted and amazing! Our pulled chicken sandwiches were very filling and just how it should be. Portions are great, so make sure to get extra napkins because you will happily make a mess! I look forward to coming here again when in the area! One of my new favorite must go places to eat read more

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Excellent food for locals and tourists. Pretty much everything is good at this place. I really liked the fried pickles lol they were yummy! read more

Stopped here for lunch on our way to West Virginia from Myrtle Beach... We had: Dargan Deviled Eggs $10.95 Fried chicken bite, fried pickles, WS Firey KC Style BBQ sauce (There were only 6, so I didn't taste them, but they seemed to be a hit) And fried green tomatoes with some kind of melted cheese on top that overpowered the tomatoes. The whole thing was a mushy mess. I was super unimpressed. I had, as my entree, Wholly Smokin' BBQ Nachos $11.95 - choice of BBQ pork or pulled chicken, roasted corn and black bean jalapeno salsa, beer cheese sauce, and house fried tortilla chips. (Decent, but far from the best nachos I've ever had. Not enough jalapeño. Meat needed sauce. My nacho loving boyfriend didn't like them at all.) My boyfriend had the 2 Meat Sampler $21.95 - Choose 2: pulled pork BBQ, pulled chicken, chicken bog, brisket, and burnt ends. Sub 1/2 ribs for one of the meats for an additional $8. Comes with your choice of 2 sides. (He had burnt ends and brisket, with warm loaded potato salad - he did not like it - and some sort of spicy beans - which he LOVED) Our nephew had a cheeseburger. He ate the whole thing. I think that says a lot considering he's 11 -years-old. Service was great. There were three bathrooms so my boyfriend/care person didn't have to worry about raising eyebrows in the women's bathroom. Still, it was lackluster. Take it or leave it. The choice is yours. read more

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We stopped here for lunch while passing through and I am so happy we did. Service was prompt and she came by a couple of times to check on us. The ribs were meaty and melt-in-the-mouth tender. I couldn't ask for better. The slaw was nicely tangy and crunchy. The Mac and cheese had split a little but was still very tasty. The cornbread was cakey, they way we northerners like it. He tried the slider trio, said the meats were tender, and loved the sweet potato fries. The place isn't fancy, but food was damn good. read more

On a weekday lunch stop, I got a burnt ends sandwich combo with collards as the side and half & half tea. The burnt ends were heavily sauced in a tangy, quite sweet sauce, but not drippingly so. The collards were very good, with a little bacon, slight spice, and maybe some light vinegar. Drew did a great job with the service. I would return here. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Burnt ends sandwich, collards, and tea. - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

So I got a birthday gift card specifically for this restaurant located in downtown area of Florence. The parking is sparse besides few parallel spots on either side road, otherwise you have to park a block down and walk up. It resembles your typical bbq place in front w bar in back, bring extra layers if you don't like freezing A/C. First visit had bog platter w 2 beers, wife had chicken wrap one mixed drink came to $51. My gift card was for $50 except it wouldn't work that sucked had to pay myself. We came back a 2nd time because we had activated gift card and wanted free meal. Second visit got small pulled pork platter, which is just small serving pork and two sides. Wife ordered chicken wrap again but got quesadillas, 2 beers, total w dessert was $65! Those two beers were $8.99 per crazy expensive right but I had gift card, guess what it didn't work again. Yes I ended up spending $120 over two visits on bbq. Needless to say I want be coming here again and that card went in trash. The food was okay but small portion bit expensive, better options out there. read more

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We love the food We enjoyed bunt ends The platter with cole slaw and potato salad was rnough for both of us U cant beat the service We will return again and again read more

Great place my son and son in-law attended the establishment and it was great. The patrons and staff were awesome. The music was everything we expected and the food was equally as good. read more

Decent place for brunch. The only place we could find with mimosas or Bloody Mary. The benches were disgusting and need to be cleaned. The padding on the back was stained up. The bathroom doors had visible black dirt and need to be cleaned. Flies in the restaurant. Overall ambiance is laid back and open space. Would be cool to have more TVs for the dining area, not just the bar. Food was delicious and we enjoyed the cocktails. Service was great. read more

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Service was great! Food was amazing! Will go back when in the area. Loved the egg appetizer. Probably my favorite thing there. And ended up bringing a lot of food home. Healthy amount of servings per meal. read more

Food great Dessert: $12 for a slither of a slice of cheesecake. Yes, $12. It was good but not worth $12. read more

Didn't get a chance to sit down and eat. Enter in past waitresses smoking cigarettes. They quickly put them out and asked us to check in with the hostess. Unfortunately no one was at the station. We ended up just walking out. Sad to say, as we really wanted some BBQ. read more

Delicious!! We were looking for good southern food and hospitality, and we found both at Wholly Smokin'. Ordered the BBQ combo with a side of collard greens and a Goat Cheese patty salad. Both hit the spot! I'd switch out the raspberry vinaigrette dressing next time. Service was fast, hoped off 95 and back on the road in less than an hour. I plan to stop again! read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Cute water park next to the restaurant! - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

We were on a road trip and overnighting in Florence. The reviews for Wholly Smokin' looked great, so we went. Walked in and were met and seated by very friendly staff. Once seated we got to ordering right away. Ribs were big and meaty and perfect. The burnt ends were buttery and smoked just right. Sauces were all good, but the mustard sauce was incredible. In all, an amazing meal served by very nice people. I'd go out of my way to come back here. read more

Wholly Smokin' Downtown - Burnt Ends Platter with spicy BBQ beans and mac and cheese - Barbeque Near Me - Florence, South Carolina

If you're in town, they're probably the best place to eat in Florence SC. They have the traditional southern food. Beef brisket is good, so is their burnt ends. We've never had the ends served in sauce, which was new. However, we wished they didn't. Limited choices for drinks, soda for example, they have Pepsi not coke. To this who care, be aware. Cameron, our server was the most delightful. Service here is stellar! They are located only 1 block from a great gelato place. You can make a walk after eating here for a nice treat. Location is very clean and safe. read more

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The staff were really inviting and nice we had a great experience there for our first time at Wholly Smoking. We had a variety of delicious food my husband had the brisket and I had pulled chicken nachos. The tea was great and music very good! Also, the place was super clean. Just all around awesome! read more

First time visit after finding it on Yelp. Traveling from Philly to FL stopped in Florence SC. Our waiter Tim greeted us and was totally delightful. Food was excellent. Pulled pork platter with collards and baked beans was best my husband ever had as well as the cornbread with hot honey and sweet potato fries. Chicken quesadillas also very good. All in all a great experience. Will definitely recommend. Don'teave without having the banana pudding. Too full? Get it to go. YUM read more

The food is very good! Loved the barbecue Benedict! Drinks are great ! Banana Pudding is homemade read more

First time here, the food was great, and lived the cornbread, a nice light cornbread, we loved it. The service was great. Highly recommend. We definitely will be back when we come back through town. read more