When it comes to the art of barbecue, South Carolina knows a thing or two. Florence, SC, nestled conveniently near interstates 20 and 95, is more than just a great place to stretch your legs on your travels—it's an unmissable destination for BBQ lovers. Whether you're a self-proclaimed pitmaster, a foodie on the hunt for authentic eats, or a curious traveler passing through on your way to Myrtle Beach, Florence's BBQ scene offers a little slice of heaven for everyone.
From tender, smoky pork shoulders to tangy, vinegar-based sauces that scream "Eastern Carolina BBQ," Florence is putting itself on the map as a must-visit food haven. But where exactly should you go to savor the best BBQ in Florence, SC? We've got you covered with our top picks for 2025!
Why Florence, SC is Perfect for BBQ Lovers
Located at the crossroads of Interstate 95 and Interstate 20, Florence is a natural pit stop (pun intended!) for travelers exploring South Carolina and beyond. Just an hour from Myrtle Beach and steeped in Southern hospitality, Florence is more than a roadside rest—it’s a flavorful portal into one of America's most iconic food traditions. With a BBQ culture deeply rooted in the Eastern Carolina style, Florence boasts a unique take on barbecue, distinct from its neighbors in North Carolina or Western SC.
Eastern Carolina BBQ stands out for its famous vinegar-based sauce with a hint of spice, and pork is the undisputed star of the show. Unlike the tomato-heavy sauces of other regions, this style leans toward a tangy zing that pairs perfectly with the smoky goodness of slow-cooked meat.
Here’s how we picked the BBQ joints you simply can’t miss.
How We Chose the Best BBQ in Florence, SC
Finding the best BBQ joints is no easy task—someone's gotta bite the bullet (or, in this case, the brisket). We evaluated Florence’s top spots based on a few key criteria:
Taste: The heart and soul of barbecue—perfectly smoked meats, balanced seasoning, and mouthwatering sides.
Authenticity: Commitment to Eastern Carolina BBQ traditions and originality.
Service: Friendly staff and a family-style spirit that make you feel right at home.
Ambience: Whether casual or refined, the vibe should amplify the BBQ experience.
Get ready, because we're about to dig into six BBQ joints that deserve a spot on your 2025 Florence foodie bucket list.
Top 6 BBQ Restaurants in Florence, SC for 2025
1. Holt Bros BBQ ★★★★☆ (4.8 on Google)
Signature Dish: Slow-smoked pulled pork with Holt Bros’ tangy house vinegar sauce.
Why Visit: Holt Bros BBQ is nothing short of a gem in Florence's BBQ scene. It’s a family-owned joint that’s as much about community as it is about perfectly smoked meats. Started over 40 years ago in just a parking lot. Don’t miss their jalapeño cornbread—it’s legendary. Great food with great menu prices.
Address: 510 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-4575
They also have locations in Hartsville and Darlington SC, so stop by any location for some great BBQ. I have eaten at the Darlington location and thought it was top notch. Brisket with hushpuppies that they call Dodgers.
2. Wholly Smokin’ ★★★★☆ (4.7 on Google)
Signature Dish: Smoked beef brisket with a side of their creamy mac 'n' cheese.
Why Visit: Blending tradition with creativity, Wholly Smokin’ offers a remarkable experience for BBQ purists and adventurous eaters alike. Located in downtown Florence, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere paired with phenomenal BBQ.
Address: 150 S Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506
Phone: (843) 407-7545
Open in 2012, but moved to this new location in 2014, this in my opinion is a date night BBQ place. With its outside courtyard and indoor bar area. This place is nicely decorated. My first time visiting was during lunch and tried their chicken bog, because it was something I had not heard of before. It was great!
3. Roger’s Bar-B-Que House ★★★★☆ (4.5 on Google)
Signature Dish: Classic BBQ pork paired with fried chicken for a combo you won’t forget.
Why Visit: If you’re looking for a timeless, no-frills BBQ haven, Roger’s BBQ House is the way to go. Generous portions and traditional recipes make it a local favorite.
Address: 2004 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-7655
I have not tried this place, but a friend of mine has and says it is a staple in Florence. She enjoys the authentic barbecue as much as the seafood. They are known for online order, bulk orders and catering too.
4. D’z BBQ ★★★★☆ (4.6 on Google)
Signature Dish: Baby back ribs dripping with their signature spicy-sweet BBQ glaze.
Why Visit: With a menu that balances classic BBQ staples and innovative dishes, D’z BBQ knows how to make an impression. Their food truck is in more of a permanent location that features indoor and outdoor seating. Buy the meats by the pound, basket or by the sandwich. This is an award winning BBQ and sauces.
Address: 2120 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 665-3222
Something I think is great, boiled peanuts are on the menu. Not typically a BBQ thing, but it is a South Carolina thing, and everyone should try it once.
5. Woodstone BBQ and Seafood ★★★★☆ (4.3 on Google)
Signature Dish: BBQ pork paired with fried shrimp—the best of both worlds.
Why Visit: Perfect for anyone craving a mix of surf and turf, Woodstone BBQ and Seafood takes a unique twist on the classic BBQ experience by adding fresh seafood to the mix. This is known as the best buffet in the Pee Dee region of SC.
Address: 106 W Sumter St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 665-5175
Only Open Thursday -Sunday, so make sure you visit the buffet on a day that it is open. You must get their peach cobbler for dessert.
6. Cain’s BBQ ★★★★☆ (4.5 on Google)
Signature Dish: Smoked pork BBQ sandwich with a tangy slaw topping.
Why Visit: A Florence staple for decades, open in the same location since 1968. Cain’s Bar-B-Que is loved for its casual vibe, quick service, and consistent quality. It’s an excellent pick for families or anyone on the go.
Address: 1502 Pamplico Hwy, Florence, SC 29505
Phone: (843) 662-8991
A great place for a country buffet that features BBQ. My visit included pulled pork, fried chicken plus many other side items. Try their pineapple casserole, its yummy.
Special acknowledgement for Scott's BBQ located in Hemingway SC, an hour from Florence. I had to mention it because it is very good barbeque even though it is an hour away.
Insider Tips for the Best BBQ Experience
Go Early: Many of Florence’s BBQ hotspots run out of their most popular items by mid-afternoon, so aim to get there early.
Try the Sides: BBQ is all about the details, and the mac 'n' cheese, slaw, and hush puppies are often as memorable as the meat.
Weekend Specials: Some places offer limited-time dishes during weekends—don’t hesitate to ask about off-menu items!
Take it Home: Many restaurants sell sauces, rubs, and frozen BBQ meats that you can enjoy long after your trip.
Plan Your BBQ Tour in Florence, SC
Barbecue isn’t just food—it’s a culture, an art, and a way of life in Florence, SC. Whether it’s the authenticity of Holt Bros, the creativity of Wholly Smokin’, or the comfort-food appeal of Roger’s BBQ House, there’s something magical about the slow-smoked, tangy flavors of the East Carolina BBQ tradition.
Now it’s your turn to explore! Share your thoughts, photos, or even your own hidden gems with us in the comments below. And if you’re heading to Florence soon, don’t forget to bookmark this list.
Happy BBQ trails!
This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I might receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Comentarios