Earning the title of Best BBQ in Clemson is a big deal, let alone winning it four years in a row. Once again, the honor of Best BBQ goes to The Smokin’ Pig, a local institution that has mastered authentic Southern barbecue.
From the moment you pull into the parking lot, it’s clear that The Smokin’ Pig is a local favorite, often with families and groups of friends waiting out front, enjoying the lawn games. Inside, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the charm that can only be created by the thousands of guests who have visited and left their mark by signing their walls.
At the heart of The Smokin’ Pig’s success is their commitment to traditional Carolina-style barbecue. Their pork is cooked low and slow until it reaches the perfect balance of smoky, tender, yet not overdone or mushy.
Ribs arrive with just the right bite, clinging to the bone without falling off prematurely — and you’re given the choice between dry-rub and glazed. The brisket, a real litmus test for any barbecue joint, boasts a flavorful bark and a juicy interior that speaks to hours of careful preparation. And their pulled chicken isn’t bad either.
All four of their meats are available as sandwiches, platters or in a bowl (served over grits or mac and cheese). If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you can also get combination platters featuring two or even three of their gourmet meats, although these are almost sure to send you home with leftovers.
Of course, great barbecue needs a great sauce. The Smokin’ Pig’s four house-made sauces allow diners to customize each bite, whether they prefer tangy vinegar-based flavors, a Carolina mustard sauce or something with a bit more kick.
Their fifteen different sides hold their own alongside the main dish. Mac and cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, sweet potato fries or a seasonal cobbler round out the plate, just to name a few. If you’re looking to try something a bit different, their recently added brisket mac and cheese bowls are also a phenomenal choice.
What truly sets The Smokin’ Pig apart is their unwavering consistency. In a world where eating out seems to grow more expensive by the day, consistency is everything, and patrons can rest easy knowing they can count on the same high-quality meal every time they walk through the door. Whether it’s a busy game day rush or a quiet Thursday evening, the food arrives hot, fresh, and full of flavor.
Beyond just the food, The Smokin’ Pig offers an expansive lawn featuring cornhole, mini golf, a bocce court and a fire pit for guests to enjoy while they wait. Additionally, over the past year, they’ve constructed a new outdoor plaza featuring a mezzanine that can be rented for private events, as well as an outdoor bar. They also offer catering for large events and tailgates, available at all three of their restaurants in the upstate.
Winning Best of Clemson is more than just a popularity contest; it’s about delivering an experience that resonates with locals and visitors alike, and about honoring Southern tradition, while serving the unique character of the Clemson community. The Smokin’ Pig does both, day-in and day-out.
In a region chock-full of barbecue joints, standing out requires passion, precision and heart. The Smokin’ Pig brings all three to the table. With expertly prepared barbecue, Southern hospitality and a deep connection to the community, they have earned their place at the top. For anyone seeking a true taste of the South, the verdict is clear: The Smokin’ Pig isn’t just good barbecue — it’s the best in town.
Hours:
Thu-Sat: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sun-Wed: Closed
Address:
6630 Clemson Blvd.
Pendleton, SC 29670
Phone: (864) 646-5150
www.thesmokinpigsc.com // @the_smokinpig (Instagram) // The Smokin’ Pig (Facebook)
