3490 NC Hwy 16 South, Taylorsville
applecitybbq.com | 828-471-5215 | Instagram 

For the second year in a row, the restaurant is our readers’ top BBQ spot. Family-owned and operated by the Dula family, Apple City BBQ specializes in authentic, pit-cooked BBQ that is smoked slowly over apple and hickory wood. Just thinking about it makes your mouth water. No matter what you order — signature smoked BBQ, smoked pulled chicken, St. Louis ribs, the divine beef brisket — there are equally scrumptious sides made in-house to complement your meal. Apple City BBQ has become a road trip destination for foodies. Dine in or carry out Thursday through Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

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“They do everything the right way. I’ve tried almost the whole menu and have yet to be disappointed. Great smoky flavors and tender and juicy. My mouth is watering just writing this!”

—Joseph Cook, Lincolnton, a member of Rutherford EMC