Mission BBQ – Columbia
On a Mission
Amid the hustle and bustle of Columbia’s vibrant Harbison Boulevard, a unique dining destination stands out, offering more than just a meal—it delivers an experience steeped in American values and tradition. Mission BBQ has carved out a special place in the hearts of barbecue enthusiasts by marrying rich flavors with a deep-seated appreciation for the nation’s heroes.
Founded on September 11, 2011, this restaurant chain was established not only to serve great barbecue but also to honor the men and women who serve our communities and country.
“As the founders of MISSION BBQ, we strive every day to remind everyone what makes Our Country great—its heroes,” the founders proudly proclaim. At Mission BBQ, every bite tells a story of passion, pride, and patriotism, inviting diners to partake in a celebration of true American barbecue culture.
The Mission Behind the BBQ
At the heart of Mission BBQ is a commitment to honor and support American heroes—every meal served is a tribute to the soldiers, firefighters, police officers, and first responders who dedicate their lives to our safety and freedom.
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The founders, driven by a passion for both barbecue and country, embarked on a quest across America to gather the finest barbecue traditions from Texas to the Carolinas, all the way to Kansas City and St. Louis. This exploration was more than a search for recipes; it was a mission to bring the soul of American barbecue to every table in their restaurants.
With an environment festooned with American flags and service memorabilia, Mission BBQ offers more than just a dining spot—it provides a place where the community can come together to celebrate their local heroes. The daily noontime salute to the Stars and Stripes has become a beloved ritual, pausing the day’s hustle to unite everyone under a common banner of patriotism.
“Every day we strive to serve you authentic BBQ made from the freshest, most delectable ingredients, and serve it to you in a patriotic dining room filled with tributes to those who’ve made Our Country great, given to us by the people who earned them,” the founders explain.
This ethos is palpable in every aspect of the restaurant, from the decor to the dishes served, making each visit a memorable experience for patrons who come not only for the food but for the atmosphere that celebrates American spirit and sacrifice.
A Taste of Authentic America
Mission BBQ prides itself on offering a menu that is as rich and diverse as the country it celebrates. Patrons can choose from an array of smoked meats, each prepared with traditional techniques that honor the regional styles from across the United States.
From the Texas-inspired oak-smoked brisket to the tender and juicy pulled chicken, every dish is crafted to reflect the authenticity and heart of classic barbecue.
The Smokehouse Signatures are particularly noteworthy, featuring items like baby back ribs that fall off the bone, and North Atlantic salmon, smoked to perfection. For those who appreciate a blend, the Meat Sampler allows an indulgent tasting of multiple meats, catering to the connoisseur who enjoys variety.
Sides are not mere afterthoughts but are central to the Mission BBQ experience, with options like Maggie’s Mac-N-Cheese and green beans with bacon, each adding a comforting touch to the meal. The attention to detail extends to the smallest items, ensuring that every component on the plate contributes to a harmonious whole.
The beverages and desserts also carry a touch of tradition, from kettle brewed iced tea and summertime lemonade to the seasonal sweets that round off the meal perfectly. For the community-minded, the American Heroes Cup offers a way to enjoy a refreshing drink while also contributing to nonprofit organizations that support local and national heroes.
In a world where meals can often be hurried and forgettable, Mission BBQ slows things down and invites diners to savor each bite, infused not just with flavor, but with a sense of purpose and pride. It’s a place where eating is a form of patriotism, a celebration of what makes America truly great—the people, the history, and the culture encapsulated in every plate of barbecue.
What Folks Are Saying
Google Review
Among the many Google Reviews, Local Guide Jillian Oddon shares that she is a regular at Mission BBQ:
Mission BBQ is one of my go to places. I eat here about once a week. I love the pulled chicken and the smoked turkey. Their portions are generous.
They also have some of the best sides – especially the mac and cheese, cheesy potatoes (seasonal), and baked beans. Each meal comes with a piece of cornbread.
They also have a variety of sauces, and they are all good. I usually do take out, but they also have an ample dining room with an outdoor patio.
Food: 5/5 | Service: 5/5 | Atmosphere: 5/5
Recommended dishes: Pulled Chicken
TripAdvisor Review
Over on TripAdvisor, David G “highly recommends” Mission BBQ:
Stopped here for lunch wanting BBQ, this was the number one BBQ place on TripAdvisor. Here just before noon and the place filling up fast, we ordered, went to a table to wait for our meal. At noon an announcement came over to please stand for a salute to America’s Veterans, Military, EMS and the like, it was a touching tribute to honor these hero’s, they do this every day at noon.
My wife ordered a combo meal chopped brisket & pulled pork, bean, coleslaw it came with cornbread as well and the combo included a beverage. I had a 5 bone St. Louis rib with mac-n-cheese and cornbread. I have to say it was delicious, my wife said it was the best brisket she ever ate, the pulled pork was tender and tasty. My ribs were tender, moist and great tasting.
They have 6 different types of BBQ sauces to suit whatever taste you like. Our sides were just as good. I cant wait to try here again, highly recommended…
Menu
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant for the most up-to-date information.
Location, Hours, Contact Info, and More
Map
Directions
Contact Mission BBQ – Columbia
Columbia, SC 29212
Hours of Operation
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Features
Cards and Cash, Heavy Tomato Sauce, Light Tomato Sauce, Mustard Sauce, Vinegar Pepper Sauce, White Sauce