4 BBQ Restaurants in Western North Carolina that Delight the Senses
Western North Carolina BBQ is a tradition like no other. While Eastern Carolina (North and South) is known for its vinegar base, the Western Carolinas incorporate a thicker sauce that is both rich and sweet due to its ketchup base. When you are looking for good western NC bbq, eat at one of these four establishments that we know to use only the best and freshest ingredients to make authentic Carolina bbq.
Before you plan your getaway, take some time to browse through our free Vacation Guide to discover all the great activities and attractions that our breathtaking region has to offer.
4 of the Best Western NC BBQ Restaurants to Try
GEEN RIVER BBQ
Green River BBQ is an iconic spot found in Saluda, NC. On the side of Asheville highway in downtown Saluda, this family-owned restaurant has deep roots in the Western NC bbq scene since 1984. From the charming atmosphere to the reasonably priced food, Green River BBQ is the definition of a typical Western NC bbq restaurant.
Recommendation: Stick with the classics and get their pulled pork sandwich for the quintessential Carolina bbq experience!
SOUTHSIDE SMOKEHOUSE BBQ & GRILL
Chef Sarah McClure took the once overlooked Southside Smokehouse & Grill and transformed it into something that the town of Landrum, SC, is proud of. Serving a mix of classic Southern bbq with an infusion of cajun favorites like their fried alligator basket and shrimp and crawfish etouffee.
Recommendation: Start with the fried alligator basket and end up with a smoked meat platter. If you are looking for western NC bbq, then go for the Lexington Pulled Pork.
HUBBA HUBBA SMOKEHOUSE
Found in downtown Flat Rock, NC, Hubba Hubba Smokehouse is serious about its wood-fired bbq. Cooking ribs and brisket low and slow, Hubba Hubba has made a name for themselves in the Hendersonville, NC area as one of the best in the business.
Recommendation: The grilled pimento cheese is something you will find nowhere else, but the plate of ribs is definitely the creme de la creme. Each bbq plate comes with 6oz of meat, two sides, and a toasted bun, chips, or cornbread.
FLAT ROCK WOOD ROOM
Part BBQ, part pizza, this Hendersonville, NC eatery is all in on making everything in its wood-fired ovens. From bbq shrimp, grits, and burnt ends on a pizza to real deal slow smoked bbq platters, the Flat Rock Wood Room is perfectly equipped to satisfy your Western NC BBQ cravings.
Recommendation: Get the Tangled Up Pork white pizza to get the fun of a pizza with the savory sweetness of their bbq blended together by the wood-fired oven.
STAY IN THE HEART OF THE NORTH CAROLINA MOUNTAINS
After a big dinner, it is time to stretch out and relax. When you stay at The Esmeralda, you’ll be greeted by the most comfortable accommodations in Western North Carolina. Our historic mountainside inn faces the mountain and offers a unique vantage point from sunrise to sunset. At The Esmeralda, you can start your mornings with our delicious breakfast or with a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Rocky Broad River at The Esmeralda Park. With this quiet property and spacious accommodations, you’ll remain in a peaceful state of mind throughout your stay.
Make your reservations today. The Western North Carolina mountains can’t wait to show you all their beauty!