Summer Hughes
Ben’s catered our wedding, and was ABOVE and beyond anything we could have envisioned. The most reoccurring comment from our guests after the wedding was, “Beautiful! Oh! And GREAT food.” We had a very unique flow of events at our wedding, and Ben’s kept pace with every part. They had dinner perfectly ready and hot plenty ahead of time, and the food was amazing. We ate leftovers for the first few days of our honeymoon rather than eating out We had them also do our dessert switch (cleaning up dinner and setting everything for dessert) and it was stunning. They even adjusted the lighting, relit candles and prefilled guests’ glasses for toasts.
Their communication ahead of time was consistent and prompt. Their pricing incredibly fair, and their service topnotch.
… moreKalynn B
TLDR: Easily the best smoked brisket in the area (by a large margin). Ribs are great too! Great view, great bbq, Highly recommended.
If you’re looking for true, no-frills, down-home BBQ, this little roadside gem is an absolute must-stop. The brisket is out of this world!! Its tender, smoky, and packed with flavor that rivals the best BBQ joints anywhere. The ribs are fall-off-the-bone delicious, perfectly seasoned and cooked just right. The mac and cheese tastes homemade, rich, cheesy, and the perfect comfort food pairing with the meat. Everything here feels made with care, not mass-produced. What makes this place even more special is the setting. You can sit back and enjoy your meal while taking in a peaceful view of cows grazing and mountains stretching in the distance. It’s the kind of atmosphere that makes you slow down and really savor the food.
A hidden treasure for sure. Amazing BBQ, warm local charm, and a view that can’t be beat. I’ll definitely be coming back every chance I get!
… moreSerena Smith
We found them on Facebook. Drove by on our way the Cherokee NC. The brisket was absolutely fantastic. Staff was friendly and even though it was smaller on the inside I would drive three hours again to eat here.
… moreJay Fine
Very good smoked ribs and bbq and chicken. Nice salad and sides. Wish for more veggies. This time was a bit more greasy but still minimal compared to most. Up there closely against Haywood smoke which does offer more veggies but have smaller portions. Great friendly staff and super quick service. Order was ready before we began our second order.
… moreBilly Samuel
Ben and his staff are top notch. They meet you with a smile and are happy to help. I was with part of a group and we were all treated as one of their own. I can not start to brag on how great the food was. I do recommend the Banana pudding to top it off. Ben (the owner) will even come around to check on you also. We will be back when we are in the area again.
… moreCrystal
Absolutely amazing food! Our first time there and will definitely be back. Another family there for the first time drove up from Inman, SC and agreed Ben’s is delicious! The portions are VERY generous! Highly recommend the brisket, pulled pork and loaded potato salad!
… moreJoe Collins
Whether you are eating at the Restaurant or the Trailer, this is the Best Bar B Q I have found since we moved from the Lexington, NC area. The Bar B Q Capitol of the South.
Ben is a fine person and a great Cook on the Meat Smokers. Watch the Facebook page for information about hours and where they are going to be.
You won’t be disappointed! I Highly Recommend that you try Ben’s Backdraft Bar B Q!!
… moreLisa Stephens
Fast takeout and never been disappointed. Friendly, courteous and moderate busy when I went in the afternoon. Fabulous food, a variety of sampling sauces to take with you at self-serve station. Always a crowd in/out and doing a fabulous business.
… moreJessica Jenkins
I recently visited Ben’s Backwoods BBQ and was blown away by the experience I had to get it again this week but got it to go. The brisket was incredibly tender and smoky, the ribs were fall-off-the-bone good, and the pulled pork was bursting with flavor. The sides, from the creamy mac & cheese to the perfectly sweet cornbread, rounded out the meal beautifully.
The restaurant’s rustic, backwoods atmosphere made it feel both authentic and welcoming. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest felt right at home.
Overall, Ben’s Backwoods BBQ exceeded my expectations, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exceptional BBQ experience. I’m already planning my next visit!
… moreLorelei Garnes
Ben’s BBQ in Waynesville captures the spirit of true Southern barbecue. The scent of hickory smoke greets you before you even reach the door, and the food lives up to every promise that aroma makes. The brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, with a deep smoky crust and tender slices that nearly melt. The ribs are just as impressive, with a balanced glaze that highlights the meat instead of overpowering it.
Every side dish feels thoughtfully prepared. The mac and cheese is rich and comforting, the baked beans carry a hint of sweetness and spice, and the cornbread has the golden texture you only find in home-style kitchens. Portions are generous, and the food tastes freshly made rather than reheated or rushed.
The staff treat guests like neighbors, and service remains consistent even during busy hours. The space itself is relaxed, clean, and filled with the sound of conversation and laughter, a sign that people are enjoying themselves. Whether you’re stopping in after a day in the mountains or visiting downtown Waynesville, Ben’s BBQ offers a meal worth remembering.
For anyone searching for the best barbecue in Waynesville, North Carolina, Ben’s BBQ stands out for its quality, flavor, and friendly atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that turns first-time visitors into regulars.
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