
Lewis Barbecue Charleston
Experience authentic Texas-style barbecue with legendary brisket and unique sides in a vibrant, industrial-hip atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Lewis Barbecue Charleston

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience authentic Texas-style barbecue with legendary brisket and unique sides in a vibrant, industrial-hip atmosphere.
Arrive Early
Parking is limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
Don't Miss the Corn Pudding
The green chile corn pudding is a highly recommended taste of Texas.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Texas-Style Barbecue
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Brisket
Renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and perfect smoky bark, this brisket is a must-try.

Authentic Texas BBQ Experience
Experience a lively, industrial-hip space reminiscent of Austin, Texas, with outdoor seating and a great vibe.

Green Chile Corn Pudding
A flavorful Texas-style side dish that's a unique and highly recommended addition to any meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early
Parking is limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
Don't Miss the Corn Pudding
The green chile corn pudding is a highly recommended taste of Texas.
Consider Margarita Pitchers
Order a pitcher of margaritas to perfectly complement your barbecue feast.
Try the Sancho Loco
Indecisive? The Sancho Loco sandwich offers a flavorful mix of barbecue meats.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early
Parking is limited. Arrive early or consider alternative transportation.
Don't Miss the Corn Pudding
The green chile corn pudding is a highly recommended taste of Texas.
Consider Margarita Pitchers
Order a pitcher of margaritas to perfectly complement your barbecue feast.
Try the Sancho Loco
Indecisive? The Sancho Loco sandwich offers a flavorful mix of barbecue meats.
Go with a Group
Ordering a variety of meats and sides is best done with a group to try more.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lewis Barbecue is celebrated for its authentic Texas-style smoked meats, with brisket and green chile corn pudding frequently highlighted as must-tries. The atmosphere is lively and reminiscent of Texas, though some note the counter-service style and potential for long lines. Portions are generous, and while the food is overwhelmingly praised, the price for premium items like beef ribs can be high.
"Beef ribs were sold out upon arrival around 3:30pm so come early! Chopped brisket and sliced turkey were delicious. I also enjoyed the sides of coleslaw and pinto beans. The sauces compliment the meat well! The included sides of pickled onions and pickels were good also. I was easily persuaded by another customer to try the banana pudding and it did not disappoint!! My absolute favorite had to be the frozen mule
made with fresh ginger."
A A L
"Lewis’s BBQ is the BOMB!!! 💣 BBQ Perfection!!! We had beef short ribs (which were not short by any means and great bark!), pulled pork sandwiches, a mountain of brisket nachos, Mac ’n’ cheese, coleslaw (delicious!), green chili corn bread and of course, all of their homemade sauces. The meat was delicious…moist, flavorful on its own, and just the right amount of smokiness (was not over bearing). The pulled pork sandwiches had spicy pickles, shaved white onion and red pickled onions on the side for your sandwich. The 4 homemade sauces were all flavorful but I liked the original and the green chili was my favorite! The only reason I gave 4’s for service and atmosphere is because there is no waitress/waiter service at your table. So, you wait in line, order your meat choices at the counter, move to the “sides” counter and then move to the cashier with your trays. There is a separate bar area to get your beer and you bring them to your table. The seating is first come first serve inside dining with table chairs/stools or outside dining with picnic tables. All in all, a great dining experience! You are definitely going for the best BBQ you will ever eat, generous portions and “finger licking good”. Lewis’s will definitely be a must go to next time in Charleston!!!"
Diane Widak
"We had a fantastic dinner at Lewis Barbecue today, and I can’t believe it took us so long to try it despite frequent visits to Charleston. Simply put—the food was insane. Hands down, this is some of the best barbecue I’ve ever had.
From the moment we walked up to the counter, we knew we were in for something special. Since it was our first visit, we were welcomed with a sample of hot, perfectly seasoned brisket. One bite was all it took—we immediately added a half pound to our order. Along with the brisket, we ordered a half pound of pulled pork, the special sandwich of the day (a prime rib beef ‘n’ cheddar stacked with green chili queso), mac and cheese, beef tallow fries, and a hot guts sausage link.
Everything was phenomenal. The brisket was smoky, tender, and rich with flavor. The pulled pork had just the right balance of smoke and tang, while the beef ‘n’ cheddar sandwich was over-the-top indulgent in the best way. The mac and cheese was creamy, decadent, and—dare I say—better than my family’s century-old recipe. The beef tallow fries were crisp, flavorful, and addictive. But one of the most memorable surprises? The house-made dill pickles and pickled onions, which added the perfect fresh bite to balance the richness of the meats.
I have to admit, I hesitated ordering the “Hot Guts” sausage by name, but it was absolutely worth it. Spicy, juicy, and packed with flavor, it was a standout on the tray.
Our total was $73 for the spread, including two fountain drinks—and it was worth every penny.
We loved it so much, we’re already planning to come back for lunch tomorrow.
Tip: get there early!! We got there at 5pm on a Friday and it was a 5-10 min wait. By the time we left, it was wrapped around the parking lot.
The seating is minimal inside. Lots of seating outside but it was raining on our visit.
Order: .5 lbs pulled pork, .5 lbs brisket(lean & fatty mix), beef sandwich, Mac ‘n’ cheese, fries, one hot guts link, white bread, pickles, & pickled onions."
Katherine Hilton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Lewis Barbecue is most famous for its authentic Texas-style brisket, known for its perfect smoky bark and tender texture. Other popular items include pulled pork and the green chile corn pudding.
The green chile corn pudding is frequently recommended as a unique and flavorful Texas specialty. Mac and cheese and collard greens are also popular choices.
The restaurant operates on a counter-service model. You'll queue to order your meats by the pound or as sandwiches, then move to a separate counter for sides. Ordering with a group allows you to try a wider variety.
Many reviewers and TikTok creators agree that the barbecue is exceptional and definitely worth the wait, especially if you arrive early to avoid the longest lines.
Lewis Barbecue offers a full bar, including a popular pitcher of margaritas that pairs well with their smoked meats.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours. It's recommended to arrive early or consider alternative transportation options.
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Austin pitmaster John Lewis transformed Charleston's smoked meat scene when he opened this Texas-style joint that serves prime rib, pulled pork, and "hot guts" by the pound. The meat is served on brown paper, the margaritas are tart; and Lewis's patio is uncannily evocative of Texas, thanks in part to the carefully chosen soundtrack. Opt for the monster El Sancho Loco sandwich if you just can't decide.
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If you’re indecisive—which is natural at Lewis Barbecue—opt for the Sancho Loco, a mountain of a sandwich that piles guts, pickled red onions, pulled pork, and chopped beef between two slices that do their best to accommodate the onslaught of sauce and smoky flavor. Regulars know not to miss the green chili corn pudding—it’s a taste of Texas that’s more than welcome in the Lowcountry.
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You’re coming to Lewis Barbecue for Texas-style smoked meats, specifically the brisket. The move is to split a giant tray and add on some smoked sausage, turkey, and sides (don’t miss the green chile corn pudding). Order a pitcher of margaritas, and find a spot in their sideyard to hang out for the next few hours.
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Hands down the best barbecue in Charleston, head to Lewis for Texas-style house-smoked meats served up counter-style in an industrial-hip space with a hopping bar & plenty of outdoor picnic tables. If this spot feels a little like you’re in Austin, Texas, there’s a reason – pit-master Lewis learned his craft in Austin under world-famous Aaron Franklin, and then became the headliner at La Barbecue, a serious contender against Franklin BBQ. My order: Be sure to go with a group so you can get a little bit of everything.
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A Texas native, pitmaster John Lewis brought his hand-welded smokers and Texas-style barbecue to the lowcountry on Nassau Street downtown. With the help of his “bar-b-crew” Lewis delivers flavorful smoked barbecue with traditional cowboy favorites. Served up cafeteria style, with your choice of anywhere from 1/4 to 1 lb (or more!) of meat, classic Texas barbecue sides, and a full bar, guests can escape the southern heat by dining indoor, or take their tray out onto the rustic, string light-filled patio.
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When pitmaster John Lewis left Austin, Texas, to start Lewis Barbecue in Charleston, he did it with one thing in mind: to prove that ’cue is about more than the pig. His brisket has the coveted caramel bark that imitators only dream of, and it’s wrapped around an interior that has the consistency of foie gras. Lewis is also willing to mix things up with events like Tex-Mex Tuesdays, a beef jerky–making competition, and a planned Detroit pizza pop-up.
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Odds are if you’ve been to Lewis Barbecue before, you’ve stood in line–and you know it’s worth it!. Barbecue enthusiasts have been flocking here since 2016, the year after meat master John Lewis moved to the Holy City to introduce the Lowcountry to the great world of Texas barbecue. His parents gave him a New Braunfels smoker for his 18th birthday and he’s been dabbling in Austin’s longstanding tradition of the backyard barbecue ever since.
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In 2017, Evan LeRoy and Sawyer Lewis parked their barbecue truck and pit trailer in the Cosmic Coffee + Beer Garden complex and proceeded to upend Texas barbecue traditions. They steered away from the classic trinity of brisket, ribs, and sausage and went New School instead, sourcing meats from sustainable Texas ranches and adding plenty of unexpected twists. Smoked beef cheeks have a splendidly silky texture beneath a pepper-rich bark.
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If you’re in the mood for great smoked meats, Lewis Barbecue is one of several barbecue spots in Charleston worth checking out. They serve Texas’ greatest hits, like smoked sausage and turkey, but the brisket is the real reason to come here. Split a giant tray of different meats and sides, (don’t miss the green chile corn pudding) along with a pitcher of margaritas, and find a spot in their side yard to hang out for the next few hours.
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What it's known for: Central Texas-style barbecue made its Charleston debut at Lewis Barbecue, headed by famed pitmaster John Lewis. Belly up to the counter and order the smoked meat of your choice: pulled pork, turkey breast, house-made sausage (Texas hot guts) and melt-in-your-mouth brisket. Your order is cut in front of your eyes and served up with tantalizing sides like green chile corn pudding, collards and cowboy pinto beans.
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- Rating: 4.7/5 (2189 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 464 North Nassau St. Charleston, South Carolina - Categories: Barbecue, Caterers, Venues & Event Spaces- Read more on Yelp. This story features data reporting by Wade Zhou, writing by Cynthia Rebolledo, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 281 metros. You may also like:People from these metros are looking to buy homes in Charleston, South Carolina
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Founded by renowned Pitmaster John Lewis, Lewis Barbecue is a Charleston-based restaurant that has quickly gained popularity for its excellent brisket, which some have hailed as the best. The dining room offers a unique experience with its modern, clean aesthetic and various nods to Texas and Mexico. Diners can enjoy a variety of mouth-watering dishes, including green chilli corn pudding and tender turkey slices.
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Opened in 2016, Lewis Barbecue was the creation of Texas pitmaster John Lewis, who relocated from Austin, TX to Charleston, SC in 2015. Since the age of 18, Lewis has been completely infatuated by barbecue, learning how to use a New Braunfels smoker he received as a birthday gift from his parents. Since then, Lewis has truly perfected his craft, bringing his brisket brilliance to the Lowcountry.
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Lewis Barbecue is a must-visit destination for meat lovers in Charleston, SC. Their custom-built smokers produce mouth-watering trays of brisket, hot guts sausage, and more. Visitors can enjoy a cozy atmosphere with friends, sipping on refreshing agua fresca and beer. The friendly staff even offers samples and extra slices, making for an unforgettable experience that feels like a casual cookout.
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When you’re in Charleston, South Carolina, you’re going to want to eat at Lewis Barbecue. It’s not only a favorite with locals, but also with visitors who know that this is the spot for smoked meats and other Texas-style barbecue favorites. The food at Lewis Barbecue is outstanding: they offer turkey slices, fatty brisket, pulled pork smoky and sweet, baked beans, and more.
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Lewis Barbecue John Lewis brought legitimate Texas barbecue to Charleston in 2016 and instantly became a must visit for any serious barbecue fans visiting the city. Between this restaurant, another on this list, and his annual Hatch Chile Fest in October, Lewis has certainly put his imprint on the city. 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403 lewisbarbecue.com/
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Devour Pork Spare Ribs with a side of Green Chile Corn Pudding and Chocolate Dirt Pie for dessert at Lewis Barbecue. Savor Italian dishes like Veal Scallopine, Grilled Mountain River Elk Loin, or house-made pasta Lasagna Bianca at Wild Olive Restaurant. Or go on one of the many Charleston culinary tours to find your next favorite lunch spot or sweet treat!
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Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing. Lewis Barbecue boasts of a large and airy room that you wouldn’t find in any other barbecue space. This clean and modern restaurant features an eight-inch Longhorn, a horseshoe, and an imported Oaxacan tile on the service counter, giving guests vibes straight from Mexico and Texas.
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You don't have to travel to Texas for some of the South's best barbecue, because at Lewis Barbecue, Texas has politely come to you. At least, renowned pitmaster John Lewis has, and I'm endlessly grateful to him for making the journey. Here, his custom-built smokers turn out one irresistible treat after another.
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I’m convinced you haven’t had BBQ until you’ve been to Lewis Barbecue. The chef is an Austen transplant who cooks up some fine Texas-style house-smoked meats. Although this is Texas-style barbecue, they do offer the South Carolina classic mustard-based sauce (which also happened to be my favorite).
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Why you should go: Pitmaster John Lewis made his name at Austin’s La Barbecue (another American Weekender favorite). A decade ago, he moved to Charleston and opened this ode to Central Texas ‘cue. A visit to Lewis is non-negotiable on our trips — this is our favorite barbecue joint in the country.
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Lewis Barbecue is my favorite BBQ spot in all of Charleston, known for their brisket and a smattering of delicious slides that gives vegetarians options too. Plus, they offer a great happy hour that includes food options at the bar (get the loaded nachos). Lewis is also hyper gluten-conscious.
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His attention detail and dedication to his craft become apparent the moment you take your first bite of something off Lewis Barbecue’s incredible menu. From smoked meats and pulled pork to all of homemade mac and cheese and house-cut fries, there’s always something new to fall in love with!
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Pitmaster John Lewis serves his signature brisket, house-made beef sausage, smoked turkey and sides at this counter-serve barbecue emporium. Options are plentiful, but you can’t go wrong with the brisket sliced, chopped or on top of nachos and paired with fries and green chile corn pudding.
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From the man that designed the BBQ flavor profile that put Austin barbecue on Texas’ “top 50 list”, BBQ Pitmaster John Lewis has brought his legendary meat-cooking skills to Charleston. His briquet, in particular, has been a huge hit since opening day. This is a must-visit BBQ spot.
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Lewis Barbecue is opened by a fellow Austinite, John Lewis, who was previously at Franklin Barbecue (he helped Aaron Franklin open!) and La Barbecue, who then moved to Charleston to open up his own barbecue join. So we had to try it out. The brisket is oh-so-good, dare I say it?
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We took some friends to Lewis Barbecue based on the recommendation of a local chef and everyone in our party left full and very happy. You can’t go wrong with any of the meats, but the sides stole the show for us. Do not miss the Green Chile Corn Pudding or Cowboy Pinto Beans.
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Helmed by pitmaster John Lewis, Lewis Barbecue has quickly become an institution to find the best of Charleston's food, especially its renowned mouthwatering brisket. This Texas-style barbeque joint has garnered a loyal following for its commitment to slow-smoked perfection.
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They are known for their Texas style barbecue and especially the brisket. You go through the line to pick your meats, sides, and then enjoy sitting inside or outside on picnic tables under the beautiful oak trees. Very kid friendly restaurant atmosphere.
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A laid-back smokehouse featuring Texas-style BBQ, Lewis is the perfect stop for a casual lunch or dinner. Hailed as one of the best BBQ spots in the country with legendary brisket, it’s a must-try with a full bar and an extensive range of sides too.
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You’re in for a treat at Lewis Barbecue, one of Charleston’s top lunch spots that’s perfect for satisfying those smoky desires. What sets this place apart?. Well, let’s talk about the massive, custom-made smokers that the pitmaster himself welds.
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Stop by for some mouth-watering beef brisket, smoked ribs, and Texas sausage. Lewis Barbecue has been recognized by Southern Living, Conde Nast Traveler, and Garden & Gun. Make sure to enjoy their legendary brisket and the laid-back atmosphere!
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Their Texas-style brisket is legendary, and the outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying the South Carolina weather. You’ve not lived until you’ve tried real-deal Southern barbecue and all of the irresistible sides to go along with it!
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Meatlovers are very thankful that Pitmaster John Lewis chose to open a trendy barbecue with deep Texas influences in Charleston. Favorites include the fatty brisket, the creamy green chili corn pudding, and that Texas Hot Guts sausage.
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Lewis Barbecue serves some of the best Brisket and Green Chile Pudding in town and has both a covered and open patio. Lewis also has a food truck outside the restaurant to take drink orders or to host pop-ups for partner restaurants.
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– Rating: 4.5 / 5 (839 reviews)– Detailed ratings: Food (5.0/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.5/5)– Type of cuisine: Quick Bites, American– Price: $$ – $$$– Address: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403-3828– Read more on Tripadvisor
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Locals suggest the wings at Home Team, brisket at Lewis and pulled pork at Rodney Scott. And, of course, JB’s Smokeshack for some buffet-style (with the best collard greens, corn fritters, green beans and mac and cheese around).
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You'll want to visit because Lewis Barbecue you are looking for great barbecue that is a bit different than what you usually enjoy in South Carolina. Pitmaster John Lewis' BBQ is elite. Few would argue, and his menu is tempting.
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Don’t miss the sleepers: the rib-eye sandwich at Rodney Scott’s BBQ, and Lewis Barbecue’s corn pudding. Complete the circuit with the smoked wings at Home Team BBQ, one location of which is just down the block from Lewis.
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When it comes to Texas-style barbecue in the South, one name consistently rises to the top: John Lewis. And if you’re heading to Charleston, South Carolina, there’s one essential stop for any BBQ lover—Lewis Barbecue.
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464 North Nassau StCharleston, SC 29403(843) 805-9500 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Helmed by John Lewis, this barbecue joint on North Nassau Street is the place to go for expertly smoked meats.
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Order the grab-and go breakfast on Babas’ app, and be sure to keep an eye out for weekly breakfast taco specials, which use local ingredients like brisket from Lewis Barbecue or Home Team BBQ.
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South Carolina’s Lewis Barbecue offers savory dishes sure to make your mouth water. While they are known for their brisket, try checking out their pastrami. We can hear your confusion now.
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The lowcountry is known for its barbecue, and there’s plenty of great gluten-free options. Fun fact: I actually eat vegan a few times a week. So when I do eat meat, I want it to be TASTY.
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Meat the best gift ever, a subscription box of meals and merchandise from Charleston's own Lewis BBQ!. Your recipient will receive a new box delivered to their door every three months.
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If you’re a barbecue lover searching for a top-tier spot in Charleston, look no further than Lewis Barbecue. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the […]
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Pitmaster John Lewis brings new flavor to Charleston’s BBQ restaurant scene. Hailing from Austin, he’s the go-to person for the distinct Texas-style barbecue.
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The staff is super knowledgeable and more than happy to answer allergy questions.”. @edenc4 who manages soy, carrot, and fruit allergies
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Location: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403, United States. Our favorite dish: Beef brisket. Give them a call: +1 843-805-9500
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Yet if you want to skip all the noise and get right for the best meat, head to our favorite: Lewis Barbecue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit