It’s been over a year since I’ve updated this site. Not much has really happened in that time right?
Ok, so maybe a few things did happen. I became a Dad, the global pandemic went on for much longer than anyone could have imagined, “The Challenge” brought back some all-time greats for an All-Star Season and there is hope again in Jacksonville.
But my return to writing won’t be about any of those things. With this week’s PGA Championship taking place at Kiawah Island just outside of Charleston, S.C. I figured it was time for to break down the barbecue scene in Chuck Town.
My brother Patrick lives there, so I’ve had a chance to try some of the cities’ best spots. It’s a city known for its dining, so be sure to let me know what I’ve left off my list and I need to try. I’m going to keep it short with just a top three.
3. Lewis Barbecue
Lewis Barbecue specializes in Texas-style barbecue, which is where owner John Lewis is from. He was a big part of some of the biggest names in barbecue in Austin, Texas before coming to the low country.
Lewis has perhaps the best set up of all the places on this list. It has great outdoor seating, a separate bar you can order drinks from in case the barbecue line is long and a separate Mexican restaurant “Juan Luis” in a food truck right there on property.
The day I went it appeared to be an off-day for the brisket, which was disappointing but I’ve been assured by my brother and many others that more times than not it lives up to it’s renowned reputation. The pulled pork, mac n’ cheese and banana pudding pulled their own weight to make it a place I’m ready to try again the next time I make my way up to Charleston.
2. Home Team BBQ
Aaron Siegel launched Home Team with one location in 2006, but it is now up to six locations, three in Charleston, one in Columbia, S.C., one in Greenville, S.C. and even one out in Aspen Colo.
I went to the Sullivan’s Island location. Everything was really good, brisket, pork, the sides and most of all the smoked wings. They are easily the best smoked wings I’ve ever had. They are my brother’s go-to birthday meal.
1. Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ
If you’re into barbecue, then you likely don’t need me to to introduce you to Rodney Scott. He’s a culinary superstar with a book deal and was featured on Netflix’s “Chef’s Table” BBQ.”
He’s famous for smoking whole hogs, an art that few pittmaster still employ. He learned in his family’s Hemingway, S.C. restaurant and now has his own place in Charleston and Birmingham, Ala. with an Atlanta location on the way.
The pork lives up to hype. It’s a unique flavor I can honestly say I’ve never had anywhere. If you have time for just one BBQ stop while in Chuck Town, this is it.
(Photo: RodneyScottsBBQ.com)
By Paul Thomas 