About Our I-85 SC BBQ Restaurant Guide
Barbeque in South Carolina — the birthplace of BBQ — is so unique and plentiful that those taking a road trip within our state need a guide to help them find the best location to sample from the SC BBQ Trail.
With that in mind, we have created SC BBQ Road Trip: A Restaurant Field Guide for each interstate that traverses our state. This edition covers Interstate 85 and its restaurants on the SC BBQ Trail.
Interstate 85 in South Carolina extends diagonally across the western corner of the state before exiting in Cherokee County.
This journey has Interstate 85 passing through only one of the four primary barbecue regions in the state. Regardless, those who find themselves on I-85 have ample opportunity to sample traditional South Carolina barbecue, and they don’t need to detour far from their travels to do so.
Interstate 85 extends 107 miles during its passage through the state. On this relatively short journey, I-85 spends its entire length in the region of SC most known for a light tomato sauce. (Note: if you’d like to learn to make authentic SCBBQ recipes, including the world’s best mustard sauce, check out the recipes we’ve published on this site or our SCBBQ Recipes: Going Whole Hog cookbook, with 300 pages of recipes from ages-old family traditions and today’s top SCBBQ pitmasters.)
Here is a look at a rough breakdown of South Carolina’s historical BBQ sauce regions:
Despite the map’s insistence, barbecue in our state is not necessarily as defined as the map dictates. This map generalizes and whitewashes regions based on historical precedence.
Today, you are likely to find any of the sauces in any corner of the state, particularly among the newer restaurants that are paying homage to the state’s grand history, but if you are looking for a particular sauce, now you know where to look.
Finding SC BBQ Restaurants near I-85
Anyway, today you find yourself traveling Interstate 85. You know traveling this stretch of road you certainly ought to be able to find some of this SCBBQ you’ve been hearing (and reading) about.
But where should you look and how far do you have to go to get real SC BBQ?
We strongly suggest checking out and using our SC BBQ Trail Locator Map, but if you prefer, you might also consider downloading a copy of the SC Dept. of Tourism’s official SC BBQ Trail Map.
The map will find your location (with your permission) and show you the closest 25 SCBBQ restaurants within 100 miles of you. While our locator map is fantastic if we do say so ourselves, we know you probably don’t want to drive 40 miles off the interstate just to get a taste of SCBBQ. (As a side note, learn how to eat SC’s best BBQ for FREE!)
So, here we present to you all your options for enjoying real SCBBQ within 10 miles of a given exit along I-85. If you love SC BBQ as we do, we know you will appreciate this guide.
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How We Selected These Restaurants
Just a quick reminder about our criteria for selecting restaurants:
- no national BBQ chain restaurants are included; all are SC-based restaurants and most are individual, family-owned shops
- all are “on” the interstate; that is, within 10 miles of an interstate exit
- inclusion in the list is not an endorsement and restaurants may be labeled “Must Visit” for reasons beyond the quality of their BBQ
- we will only include one restaurant on a given route for any major SCBBQ chain; note, however, while there are many Dukes restaurants in SC they are not franchises or members of a chain, so all will be included
- mileage provided is not exact but was calculated using Google maps so it should be very close
- See SCBBQ Road Trip: Start Your Engine for a fuller explanation of our selection criteria.
Interesting Interstate Info
Before we begin, some interstate highway fun facts you might not have known:
- no matter which direction you are heading, the interstate exit numbers are the same for a given junction
- one or two-digit, odd-numbered interstates run south-north, with lower numbered interstates starting in the west; I-85 is clearly a south-north running, East coast interstate, being such a high, odd number.
- mile markers for south-north running interstates begin at the southern end of each interstate
Thus, we will follow the exits along I-85 from where it begins in on the Georgia line until it exits near Charlotte.
Buckle your seatbelt and away we go…
Note: Distances are approximate: Use our map for more precise directions.
Exit 1 (SC 11 north (Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway) – Walhalla)
The Spotted Pig BBQ
“We drive 45mins to this place bypassing several other BBQ restaurants, one that is 7mins from our home. Every time that we’ve gone has been great. From the food to the service.”
~ Jocelyn Jones, Google Local Guide
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 14 (SC 187 – Pendleton, Clemson)
Fork Grove Barbecue
“I have made the trip from Columbia 3 times now with some friends. Every time we have been the food is unbelievable. The Texas-style brisket is probably the best I’ve had in SC. Everything is smoked fresh onsite.”
~ Kevin Thigpen, Google Review
Anderson, SC 29626
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- True 'Cue Certified
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 19 (US 76 / SC 28 – Clemson, Anderson)
Creekside Bar-Be-Que
“Food is good and the portions are huge. Worth every penny.”
~ Steve O’Shields, Google Local Guide
Anderson, SC 29625
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- True 'Cue Certified
- –
- Vinegar Pepper Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
The Smokin’ Pig Express in Williamston
“The food and service were fantastic. It is hard to beat the brisket here and love a lot of the sides like potato salad, baked beans, banana pudding or the sweet potato casserole.”
~ Tim Keaton, Google Local Guide
Williamston, SC 29697
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- Vinegar Pepper Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 21 (US 178 – Anderson, Liberty)
The Pompous Pig
“Took a slight detour to try out this BBQ place. The chopped brisket was awesome, no fat and great flavored meat. My wife tried the brisket sandwich which I tried and thought was quite tasty as well. All in all glad we made the detour!!”
~ William C Albert, Google Local Guide
Anderson, SC 29621
Days/Hours:
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- Vinegar Pepper Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Little Pigs of Anderson
“Carolina Style BBQ done right! Huge portions – fair prices – wonderful sweet tea and sauces! BBQ and all the fixings plus a short order menu! Great value!”
~ Justin King, Google Local Guide
Days/Hours:
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Circle M BBQ
“I’m angry at myself because I should’ve went to this place a long time ago. Only open 2 nights a week—Friday and Saturday. When it’s open, it’s packed…and with good reason, their vinegar-based bbq is top-tier incredible! Circle M BBQ is definitely worth traveling for, especially if you really love BBQ.”
~ Brooke Carman, Google Local Guide
Liberty, SC 29657
Days/Hours:
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
Features:
- 100 Mile BBQ
- –
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- True 'Cue Certified
- –
- Vinegar Pepper Sauce
- –
- Whole Hog
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 32 (SC 8 – Pelzer, Belton)
Southern Smoke BBQ
“This is one of those off the beaten path places that you make the journey to… well worth the adventure! Truly incredible BBQ experience for those who appreciate the craft…. excellent sausage, flavorful brisket burnt ends, tender smoky pork & a juicy chicken quarters. If you’re local, you’re lucky. If you’re traveling, get there & get some!”
~ Michael Cogar, Google Review
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Hash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 40 (SC 153 – Easley)
Mutt’s BBQ in Easley
“This is one of the local diamonds in Easley. It has plenty of local flavor and a train that runs around the restaurant. The buffet is really good with fried chicken and ribs. You will enjoy eating here.”
~ Mike G., TripAdvisor Review
Easley, SC 29640
Days/Hours:
| Monday | |
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Buffet
- –
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Hash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
- –
- Vinegar Pepper Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Smitty’s Smokin’ Soul Food
“If you miss out eating here it’s all your fault. The brisket, pulled chicken and pork are so tender and delicious. Sides are above average as well. Don’t miss this little gem of a restaurant.”
~ JC Fan, Google Review
Suite E
Easley, SC 29640
Days/Hours:
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 42 (I-185 / US 29 north – Greenville, Columbia)
Little Pigs Bar-B-Q of Greenville
“Best BBQ and fried chicken fingers around. Love their fried onion rings too. Highly recommend.”
~ Rick Hansen RPh, Google Review
Days/Hours:
| Monday | |
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Sticky Fingers on S. Main in Greenville
“Absolutely the BEST pulled pork sandwich I’ve ever had. Always loved these sauces, but I was blown away with the quality of the food.”
~ MR, Google Local Guide
Greenville, SC 29601
Days/Hours:
| Monday | |
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- Mustard Sauce
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Lewis Barbecue in Greenville
“The title of one of the Top 50 BBQ joints in the land is well deserved. The flavor of the bbq is matched by the extraordinary customer service.”
~ John Allen, Google Review
Greenville, SC 29609
Days/Hours:
| Monday | |
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Light Tomato Sauce
- –
- True 'Cue Certified
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant directly for the most up-to-date information.
Exit 44 (US 25 (White Horse Road))
Moe’s Original Bar B Que in Greenville
“Great spot to enjoy the North Main end of Greenville off of Stone Avenue. Consistently excellent food and service paired with a lively and homey atmosphere with room to enjoy inside and out.”
~ Josh Hoover-Dempsey, Google Local Guide
Suite B
Greenville, SC 29609
Days/Hours:
| Monday | |
| Tuesday | |
| Wednesday | |
| Thursday | |
| Friday | |
| Saturday | |
| Sunday |
Features:
- Cards and Cash
- –
- Heavy Tomato Sauce
- –
- True 'Cue Certified
- –
- White Sauce
