518 Smokehouse
Friendship and Barbecue
Nestled in the heart of Chapin, SC, 518 Smokehouse has quickly become a notable destination for BBQ enthusiasts and families looking for a place to enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere.
Launched by the Middleton family, who are well-known for their impact on Columbia’s dining scene, this establishment marks their expansion into the Chapin area, bringing with them a promise of quality and a space where everyone can feel at home.
The Story Behind 518 Smokehouse
At its core, 518 Smokehouse is about bringing people together over good food and good times.
The restaurant’s foundation is built on the enduring friendship of a group of Winthrop University friends who shared a love for barbecue and beer.
“It all began from a college camaraderie at Winthrop’s campus, a group of friends living together at a college house on 518 Smokehouse Lane bonded forever over beer & good barbecue,” the restaurant’s creators share on their website.
This sense of camaraderie and community is at the heart of everything they do, aiming to create a venue where families can unwind and create lasting memories.
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Menu That Celebrates BBQ
The menu stands out for its commitment to high-quality, farm-to-table ingredients, and a selection that caters to a wide range of tastes.
Diners can look forward to starting their meals with unique offerings like beer-battered onion rings with a twist of Cowboy Candy Ranch, or diving into the bold flavors of Texas Twinkies—jalapeños stuffed with smoked brisket and cream cheese, all wrapped in bacon.
The selection of meats, from brisket to smoked sausage, and a variety of sides, from gouda mac & cheese to collards, is carefully prepared to highlight the rich, smoky flavors barbecue lovers crave.
Yet, 518 Smokehouse offers more than just great food.
Naturally Comfortable
As reported by Jordan Lawrence in the Lexington County Chronicle, the restaurant’s design includes an outdoor area that capitalizes on Chapin’s natural beauty, offering diners outside seating that overlooks a picturesque pond.
This setting not only enhances the dining experience but also reflects the restaurant’s desire to blend seamlessly into the fabric of the local community.
518 Smokehouse’s approach to dining is a fresh take in a crowded field, offering not just a meal, but an invitation to be part of a community that values good food, good friends, and good times.
Whether you’re a Chapin local or just passing through, a stop at 518 Smokehouse is more than just eating out—it’s an opportunity to partake in a shared experience that honors the tradition of Southern barbecue and the joy of gathering around the table.
For those on the lookout for a new spot to enjoy great barbecue in a setting that feels like an extension of home, 518 Smokehouse in Chapin, SC, is a place worth visiting.
With its rich backstory, focus on quality, and commitment to creating a space where every guest can feel welcomed, it’s poised to become a beloved staple in the South Carolina BBQ scene.
What Folks Are Saying
Google Review
Among the many Google Reviews, Kerry Kinney shares the experience as one of 518 Smokehouse’s first customers:
We tried 518 Smokehouse last night and will definitely be going back soon and often.
We sat at the bar and Kelly was our bartender. She did an awesome job and was very helpful with suggestions and explaining the menu.
I ordered the platter with 2 meats and 2 sides. I had pulled pork and brisket for my meats and smoked gouda mac and cheese and corn ribs for my sides.
Everything was delicious and the portions are plenty big enough. I had to get a to go container.
I’m really looking forward to my next visit and plan to become a regular. All of the staff was so friendly and the atmosphere is so warm and welcoming.
Yelp Review
Over on Yelp, Brian R notes that he will be back at 518 Smokehouse many times:
Venue is awesome, very well thought out and done nicely, great for families and groups.
Food is great, drinks are cold, smoked wings are an instant favorite, and can’t go wrong with the max and cheese or corn with good size portions on most items with feeling plenty stuffed on a 2 meat/ 2 side plate.
Staff was also great for being new and they had interesting robots to help bring out food so it doesn’t sit long combined with they process your order at the table instantly to reduce wait times. No complaints and look forward to returning often!
Menu for 518 Smokehouse
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 518 Smokehouse
Chapin, SC 29036
Hours of Operation
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Features
Cards and Cash, Hash, Heavy Tomato Sauce, Light Tomato Sauce, Mustard Sauce, White Sauce