Big T's Bar-B-Que

Big T's Bar-B-Que in Columbia, SC, is a beloved local barbecue restaurant that offers authentic Southern flavors in a warm, unpretentious setting. Located conveniently at 7535 Garners Ferry Rd in a modest shopping plaza near Planet Fitness, this mom-and-pop eatery delivers a genuine taste of Carolina barbecue that has won over both locals and visitors alike.

Stepping into Big T's, you're immediately greeted by the rich, mustard-forward aroma of classic Carolina BBQ — a scent that promises a flavorful experience. The menu boasts a variety of hearty selections, each crafted to showcase traditional Southern barbecue and comfort food staples. The standout dish, the BBQ and Hash Plate, is a customer favorite, celebrated for its perfectly seasoned chopped BBQ paired with a soulful hash and rice base. Many guests, like Jason G Christensen, have praised this dish as an ideal introduction to the region’s barbecue heritage.

Beyond the signature plates, Big T’s offers a satisfying range of options. The Big T’s Dinners are generous and flavorful: the BBQ Over Rice with Rib features tender rib meat layered over fluffy rice and paired with two savory vegetable sides—a true Southern feast. For those who prefer handheld delights, the Double Cheeseburger and BBQ Sandwich with Slaw provide a deliciously messy, yet comforting meal. Seafood lovers can indulge in the Whiting Fish & Shrimp Combo or the crispy Shrimp Basket, perfect for a lighter but no less satisfying bite.

The dining atmosphere at Big T's is delightfully down-to-earth, where the friendly and patient staff make you feel at home, no matter your level of familiarity with barbecue. Brandon Carter appreciated the relaxed service, noting that there was no rush to decide, allowing diners to savor their experience. This welcoming vibe complements the hearty, home-style food perfectly.

What really shines here is the soulfulness of each dish. Whether it’s the tender smothered chicken with creamy mac and cheese and seasoned collards, as Shariyka Romero experienced, or the crispy fried chicken paired with banana pudding for dessert, as described by Sam Hunte, Big T’s meals comfort and satisfy in every bite. Brian Kelly’s enthusiasm for the rib plate with hash, rice, and sides like corn and collards highlights the meal’s balance of robust flavors and classic Southern ingredients, enhanced with a subtly tangy mustard BBQ sauce that enhances without overpowering.

Big T’s Bar-B-Que doesn’t just serve food; it offers a genuine taste of South Carolina’s culinary heritage wrapped in hospitality and a cozy environment. For anyone looking to soak up authentic Carolina barbecue along with traditional Southern sides, Big T’s is a standout choice that invites you back for more.