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Old City BBQ

4.5
·2k reviews·Williamsburg, United States

Laid-back Williamsburg spot serving nose-to-tail BBQ with hearty sides and a friendly vibe. A must-try for meat lovers!

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Lunchtime

Freshly smoked meats

CrowdMedium
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Old City BBQ - Image 1

Old City BBQ

Best Time

Lunchtime

Freshly smoked meats

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Laid-back Williamsburg spot serving nose-to-tail BBQ with hearty sides and a friendly vibe. A must-try for meat lovers!

4.5
(2k reviews)

"This place was recommended to me by several locals… and I am so glad. Wow. I love a good BBQ joint!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤤 Must-Try Meats

Don't miss the pulled pork and brisket, often cited as the best in Williamsburg!

🌶️ Sauce Exploration

Try the different sauces – Tidewater and vinegar offer a nice contrast to the sweet main sauce.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Smoked Brisket

Smoked Brisket

Tender, flavorful brisket that melts in your mouth. A true BBQ classic done right.

Pulled Pork

Pulled Pork

Juicy, slow-smoked pulled pork, a staple for any BBQ enthusiast.

Poblano Mac & Cheese

Poblano Mac & Cheese

Creamy mac and cheese with a hint of poblano pepper for a unique kick.

Burnt Ends BLT

Burnt Ends BLT

A decadent sandwich featuring flavorful burnt ends, a must-try for meat lovers.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Smoke

Old City BBQ is known for its nose-to-tail approach to smoked meats. Be prepared for rich, savory flavors and hearty portions. Many visitors rave about the pulled pork and brisket, so consider those your go-to options. TikTok+1

Sauce Savvy

While the meats are the star, the sauces offer a range of flavors. The main sauce is noted as quite sweet, but the Tidewater and vinegar options provide different kicks. Don't hesitate to try them all to find your favorite! Reddit

Best Times

When
Lunchtime
Why
Freshly smoked meats
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I said what I said 🗣️ #bbq #williamsburg #va #757 #virginia #hamptonroads #newportnews #vaeats #vafoodie #goodeats #fyp #trending #virginiaeats #757eats #757tiktok
@adaywithnayy
98 likes • 3.1K views

🤤 Must-Try Meats

Don't miss the pulled pork and brisket, often cited as the best in Williamsburg! TikTok+1

🌶️ Sauce Exploration

Try the different sauces – Tidewater and vinegar offer a nice contrast to the sweet main sauce. Reddit

Topped with BBQ Brisket 🤤 #Virginia #foodtiktok #WilliamsburgVA #restaurant #macncheese #bbq #QuickBooksVictoryPose
@liketheteaeats
1.1K likes • 49.5K views
Wassup wassup Old C🕌ty Barbecue Williamsburg Va📍 I went with the smoked pulled chicken, smoked poblano Mac & cheese 🧀, and fries. I went with the sticky patch bbq sauce. Best BBQ in the burg! ##fyp##757##williamsburgva##williamsburg##804 ##bbq##pulledchicken##smokedmeat##macandcheese##frenchfries##virginia##foodie##foodreview@@oldcitybbq
@wassupwassupdoug
984 likes • 128.7K views

💯 Local Recommendation

Locals highly recommend this spot for authentic BBQ and great service. Reddit

💰 Value for Money

Generous portions make it a good value, though some find it a bit pricey. Reddit

@oldcitybbq definitely a must try in Williamsburg, Va #smokedmeat #goodfoodvibes #williamsburgva #4meatplatter #couplesdate #quicktripadventures
@auntiemeka
26 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤤 Must-Try Meats

Don't miss the pulled pork and brisket, often cited as the best in Williamsburg! TikTok+1

🌶️ Sauce Exploration

Try the different sauces – Tidewater and vinegar offer a nice contrast to the sweet main sauce. Reddit

💯 Local Recommendation

Locals highly recommend this spot for authentic BBQ and great service. Reddit

💰 Value for Money

Generous portions make it a good value, though some find it a bit pricey. Reddit

💨 Wood Smoke Aroma

You'll smell the delicious wood smoke before you even walk in! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Old City BBQ is a highly recommended spot in Williamsburg for its delicious, generously portioned BBQ and friendly service. While some find the main sauce a bit too sweet and the pricing slightly high with added fees, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the tender meats and flavorful sides. It's a solid choice for a satisfying and casual dining experience.

"We were at the rec center across the street for some basketball games. Had a break in between games. We could smell and see the wood smoke coming from the restaurant. Upon walking in I was pleasantly surprised. Nice bar and dining area with also outside seating. Our waitress was absolutely amazing! Personable and knowledgeable. Seemed to enjoy her job. Some of the best baked beans I've had. Fries were great and seasoned well with a good crisp. My girlfriend was making mmmm sounds as she bit into the blt with burnt ends. We will definitely be back to try more selection of meats and sides."

Brian Price

"This place was recommended to me by several locals… and I am so glad. Wow. I love a good BBQ joint and I love pork belly, when it’s cooked correctly. Here it was cooked and seasoned to perfection. Beyond that the sides were delicious. The service was awesome. I’m a huge fan of the food and the people."

Mary DeMasters

"Server was great and friendly. Helped me accidentally order off the secret menu. It was a touch pricey but that’s kind of just the way BBQ Joints are going these days.

The sauces on the table were pretty good. The main sauce is realllllly sweet for a bbq sauce but the tidewater had a nice mustard kick and the vinegar sauce was standard in a good way."

Jack Honaker

What People Like

Generous portions
Tender smoked meats
Friendly service

What People Dislike

Sweet main sauce
Added taxes/fees
Less smoky flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old City BBQ is conveniently located in Williamsburg, VA. It's easily accessible by car and is within walking distance of some local attractions and accommodations. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available at Old City BBQ, though it can get busy during peak hours. Reddit

Information on public transport routes to Old City BBQ can be limited. Driving or ride-sharing services are often the most reliable options. Reddit

Absolutely! It's right across the street from the rec center, making it a perfect spot for a meal during breaks. Reddit

Old City BBQ is situated in Williamsburg, Virginia, often mentioned in the 757 area code. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old City BBQ is a restaurant, not an attraction requiring tickets. You simply order and pay for your food. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours. Reddit

There is no dress code. Old City BBQ has a laid-back, casual atmosphere, so come as you are! Reddit

Reservations are typically not required, as it's a casual dining establishment. However, for larger groups, it's always a good idea to call ahead. Reddit

Yes, Old City BBQ offers outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying your meal on a nice day. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Visitors highly recommend the smoked brisket, pulled pork, and the poblano mac & cheese. The BLT with burnt ends is also a standout. TikTokReddit+3

They offer a variety of sauces, including a sweet main sauce, a mustard-based Tidewater sauce, and a classic vinegar sauce. Reddit

Yes, the portions are generally considered generous, offering good value for the quality and quantity of food. Reddit

Some reviews suggest the meats might be more oven-roasted than traditionally smoked, lacking a deep smoky flavor for some palates. Reddit

Popular sides include baked beans, fries (seasoned well), cornbread (soft and cake-like), and fried Brussels sprouts. Reddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the mouth-watering BBQ platters, the rustic interior, and the vibrant sauces. The outdoor seating area can also offer nice shots. TikTok+1

Definitely! The colorful sides and generously portioned meats make for excellent food photography. TikTok+1

Yes, you're welcome to take photos inside the restaurant to capture your dining experience. Reddit

The 4-meat platter, the poblano mac & cheese, and any dish featuring their signature brisket or pulled pork are highly photogenic. TikTok+1

The restaurant has a modern, rustic interior with good lighting, suitable for casual photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old City BBQ is a fantastic choice for families looking for a casual and satisfying meal. The generous portions mean everyone can get their fill, and the kid-friendly atmosphere makes it a relaxed environment. Reddit The classic BBQ options like pulled pork and chicken are usually a hit with younger eaters, and sides like fries and mac & cheese are always popular. TikTok+1 Consider ordering a platter to share, which allows everyone to sample different meats and sides. The outdoor seating can also be a plus for families with energetic children.

While the main BBQ sauce is sweet, it's generally well-liked by kids. Reddit The staff are known for being friendly and accommodating, which is always a bonus when dining with children. Reddit+1 Just be aware that some of the more adventurous menu items or sauces might be a bit too intense for very young palates, but there are plenty of safe and delicious options available.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Old City BBQ offers a good balance of quality and quantity. The generous portion sizes mean you might be able to share a platter or even have leftovers for another meal, stretching your dining budget further. Reddit Focus on ordering main meats and a couple of sides that appeal to you most. While some reviews mention it can be a bit pricey with added fees, sticking to the core menu items and avoiding excessive add-ons can help manage costs. Reddit

Consider visiting during lunch hours when the atmosphere might be slightly less busy, potentially leading to quicker service. Reddit The laid-back vibe means you don't need to worry about dressing up, saving on potential costs associated with more formal dining. Ultimately, for a hearty and flavorful meal that satisfies a BBQ craving, Old City BBQ provides a solid value, especially if you're looking to fuel up for a day of sightseeing.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of BBQ at Old City

Old City BBQ prides itself on its nose-to-tail approach to barbecue, meaning they utilize various cuts of meat to create their flavorful dishes. While many visitors praise the taste and tenderness of their smoked meats, some reviews suggest that the cooking method might lean more towards oven-roasting than traditional, deep smoking. This can result in a less intense smoky flavor than purists might expect, though the overall quality and preparation are consistently rated highly. Reddit

TikTok creators often highlight the generous portions and the visual appeal of the smoked meats, with videos showcasing platters piled high with brisket and pulled pork. TikTok+1 The poblano mac & cheese is another frequently featured side, praised for its creamy texture and subtle spicy kick. TikTok+1 This focus on hearty, satisfying meals makes Old City BBQ a popular choice for those seeking a substantial and delicious BBQ experience.

When it comes to the sauces, Old City BBQ offers a spectrum of flavors. The main BBQ sauce is described as quite sweet, which appeals to some but might be too much for others. However, the Tidewater sauce (a mustard-based option) and the vinegar sauce provide excellent alternatives for those who prefer a tangier or spicier profile. Reddit Experimenting with these different sauces is part of the fun and can significantly alter the taste of your chosen meats.

Navigating the Menu and Value

The menu at Old City BBQ features a range of classic BBQ staples, including pulled pork, brisket, pork belly, and various sandwiches. Sides are equally important, with options like baked beans, fries, coleslaw, and the popular poblano mac & cheese. Reddit Many diners find the portions to be very generous, offering good value for the price. Reddit This makes it a great spot for a hearty meal, especially after a day of exploring Williamsburg.

However, some patrons have noted that the overall cost can add up, especially with additional taxes and surcharges. Reddit While the quality of the food is generally well-regarded, a few reviews mention feeling a bit 'nickel and dimed' by extra charges for items like crackers, which can detract from the perceived value. Reddit It's always a good idea to be mindful of potential extra costs when ordering.

Despite these minor concerns, the overall sentiment is positive, with many visitors praising the friendly service and the deliciousness of the food. Reddit+1 The laid-back atmosphere and the option for outdoor seating contribute to a pleasant dining experience, making it a solid choice for BBQ lovers in the area.