2023 CAROLINA'S FINEST

Chimney Rock Smokehouse

Finest BBQ

By Leah Chester Davis

November 2023

Barbecue with a view describes Chimney Rock Smokehouse. The readers’ favorite in this highly competitive category is a relatively new establishment—it opened July 4, 2022—and it has already gained quite a fan following. “All of our meats are awesome,” says Manager Bryan Cole, and he cites the ribs and the brisket, in particular.

430 Main Street, Chimney Rock | chimneyrocksmokehouse.com | 828-239-8939

Whether you opt for their signature pulled pork or another feature from Pitmaster Anthony Norwood, you can’t go wrong. Local musicians are quickly making it a favored spot for music, too. Enjoy tunes in the backyard area or dine on the front porch or at one of the picnic tables and you’ll have an incredible view of the picturesque Chimney Rock. The entrance to the state park is just a stone’s throw away.

“Delicious food—tender, moist and full of flavor!”

—Lisa, Lake Lure, a member of Rutherford EMC

This year’s runners-up

Apple City BBQ, Taylorsville
JD’s Smokehouse, Rutherford College

About the Author

Carolina Country Contributing Editor Leah Chester-Davis loves to explore North Carolina. Her business, Chester-Davis Communications (chester-davis.com), specializes in food, farm, gardening and lifestyle brands and organizations.