Our group, about twenty members of the Class of 1985, began our 40th year class reunion here. The service, the food, the entertainment, the vibe...everything was AWESOME! The musician toasted our class during his set, several times. He says he performs at all type of events. I had one too many Tito's to remember his name...but I have a video of him singing Purple Rain On a Friday and I'm sure Saturday nights, this is the SPOT!
Overview
If you're looking for a great place to enjoy mouthwatering barbecue in Aiken, Southbound Smokehouse is the spot to visit. Located at 222 The Alley SW, Aiken, SC 29801, this local gem offers a welcoming atmosphere and deliciously smoked meats that will leave you coming back for more.
From the moment you step into Southbound Smokehouse, you're greeted with the smell of perfectly smoked meats filling the air. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe, with friendly staff that are eager to make your experience enjoyable. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or just looking for a great meal, this diner-style spot delivers.
One of the standout features of Southbound Smokehouse is its menu, which features a variety of smoked meats and traditional Southern sides. The pulled pork is a favorite among locals, with its tender texture and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with their tangy vinegar-based sauce. If you're in the mood for something different, the brisket is another must-try. It's cooked low and slow to perfection, with a nice bark on the outside and a juicy interior. For those who like a little heat, the spicy sausage links are a crowd-pleaser.
But it's not just the meats that make Southbound Smokehouse special. The sides are just as memorable. Their mac and cheese is creamy and cheesy, and the collard greens are cooked to perfection with a hint of smoky flavor. If you're a fan of cornbread, don't miss out on this side dish-it's the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
What really sets Southbound Smokehouse apart is the attention to detail and the passion for great food. The owners and staff are genuinely invested in creating a dining experience that feels like home. Many visitors return time and again, not just for the food, but for the welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit feel special. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into each dish, from the selection of meats to the perfect blend of spices in their sauces.
If you're in Aiken, you'll also notice that Southbound Smokehouse has quickly become a local favorite. It’s not uncommon to see regulars chatting with the staff like old friends. This kind of personalized service and community connection is what makes Southbound Smokehouse stand out in a town full of dining options.
For those who prefer to enjoy their meal at home, Southbound Smokehouse offers takeout options, so you can bring a little bit of Southern comfort to your own table. Whether you're picking up a platter to feed the family or just grabbing a sandwich for lunch, the quality of the food remains the same.
If you're new to Aiken or just passing through, Southbound Smokehouse should be on your list of places to try. The combination of great food, friendly service, and a relaxed environment makes it a standout in the local dining scene. You’ll find yourself looking forward to your next visit, whether it’s for a casual meal or a special occasion.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktailsPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lotPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 170 reviews
We came in with my son‘s baseball team after a tournament with a party of 15 and they sat us right away in their back patio. Our server Jara was wonderful! The food came out quickly. The service was great and we had a great time! Highly recommend!
Classic American venue. For cutlery, they gave a fork. The picklefries were really tasty, particularly when teamed with the chocolate lava cake dip and ice cream. My burger was succulent and tasty, the fries were pretty decent. The server was attentive and very positive doing a great job sorting the bill for our party. PBR in tinnies but given it's a no glass venue, that works great. Would visit again.
We tried this new restaurant and were very pleased with our experience! We were seated in the outdoor area, which is fully heated and very comfortable. The atmosphere is amazing! Our server was great and took care of us throughout the entire meal, as well as afterwards as we sat and chatted and listened to the live music that was offered when we were there. The food was super tasty and the ribs were some of the best I've had in this area. Prices were very reasonable (about $26 for a full rack of ribs and one side dish). The ribs were very smoky flavored and tender and juicy with sauce choices offered on the side. I highly recommend trying this new place. It is located in The Alley area of downtown Aiken, and is a perfect spot for a great dinner.