Smok’y Blues BBQ, founded in 2012 by pitmaster Roger McLyea, has become a go-to spot in Spartanburg, SC, for authentic wood-smoked barbecue.
Combining elements of Carolina, Memphis, Texas, and Kansas City BBQ, Smok’y Blues delivers rich flavors through traditional wood-cooked methods. Now owned by Tyler Foster, the restaurant continues to honor its roots while maintaining a loyal customer base.
Smok’y Blues BBQ complements its expertly smoked meats with a variety of scratch-made sides.
Their offerings, like potato salad, mac and cheese, bourbon beans, and collard greens, are frequently praised by patrons for their homemade quality. What further sets Smok’y Blues apart is their unique sauce selection.
In addition to traditional BBQ sauces, Smok’y Blues is known for its moonshine-infused and blackberry sauces, which provide a distinctive twist to their dishes. As one reviewer noted, “the blackberry sauce was great on the chicken.”
The menu at Smok’y Blues BBQ is anchored by slow-cooked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and smoked chicken, all prepared over wood to achieve that deep, smoky flavor.
The brisket is a particular favorite among regulars for its tender texture. For dessert, customers rave about their banana pudding, a perfect sweet ending to a hearty BBQ meal.
With daily specials, a kids’ menu, and combo plates offering various meats and sides, Smok’y Blues has something for everyone.
The restaurant is a hit with both locals and travelers looking for authentic, flavorful BBQ in a welcoming environment.
Located in a small strip mall, Smok’y Blues BBQ may be easy to miss, but it’s become a Spartanburg hidden gem.
The restaurant has earned a reputation for its warm, friendly atmosphere, where staff members and even the owners personally engage with customers.
As one diner said, “Great local spot for delicious BBQ. The owners are working the counter, and the service is just as good as the food.”
Founded on a passion for great barbecue, Smok’y Blues BBQ carries on the legacy of its founder, Roger McLyea, with a dedication to quality and hospitality.
Now under Foster’s leadership, the restaurant continues to offer top-tier BBQ and a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re a local or just passing through Spartanburg, Smok’y Blues BBQ promises delicious, down-to-earth meals that keep you coming back for more.
(Of course, South Carolina’s barbecue scene is packed with legendary joints and hidden gems. See more BBQ restaurants in SC to discover where to go next in the state or find other great BBQ joints in Spartanburg.)
Among the many Google Reviews, Local Guide Judy Horton says her spouse is a fan of the moonshine at Smok’y Blues BBQ:
Great food made by great people. Military Veterans. Wonderful family business that serves up the best bourbon baked beans ever.
The homemade fries are also a must taste. Get the brisket as it’s absolutely delicious. Chopped chicken available for lighter fare.
Homemade sauces of all types. I like mixing the mild and hot. My husband likes the moonshine. Try them all!
There is usually a homemade dessert to choose from such as banana pudding or peach cobbler. You can’t go wrong with either one. Stop in and give it a try.
Over on Yelp, Spartanburg-local and Texas-transplant Aaron S. knows good brisket when he tastes it:
I usually don’t give five star reviews unless it is merited. So on a whim I decided to stop by this place since I was driving past it. It’s one of those places that’s tucked away in Spartanburg and you wouldn’t usually know about it unless you drove past it.
When I went in I noticed that they had beef brisket so that is definitely what I decided to order along with their moonshine sweet barbecue sauce. I can tell you one thing for sure, it is definitely hard to find good beef brisket outside of Texas where I am from. This is some of the best in the area.
We will be frequenting this Mom and Pop place in our future.
Note: Menu prices and options are subject to change over time. Contact the restaurant for the most up-to-date information.
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
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| Sunday | Closed |
Cards and Cash, Hash, Heavy Tomato Sauce
Seeing the various recipes from different regions of SC is what I liked most about the cookbook. Looking forward to trying them out. It’s a small investment to pay to learn about various BBQ within our state, or a great way to try SC BBQ without having to actually go there. So much information on… Read more “SO MUCH INFORMATION”