MISSION BBQ — Restaurant in Columbia

Despite never eating at Mission BBQ, we started with a positive impression after receiving free sandwich cards at the Air Force ball we attended at which they catered for the child care at the event. We stopped in while running errands and they honored the cards despite having a different location printed on them.

Almost immediately after arriving we were offered a free sample of pulled chicken which was helpful since we had never eaten there. While the food and various BBQ sauce options were delicious....what I feel stands out even more is the outstanding customer service. The whole staff provided outstanding and friendly customer service....particularly Mame. She is the type of person that seems to take a sincere interest in others. Her bright smile and friendly demeanor makes you feel honored to be served by her. She diligently circled the dining area looking for ways should could be helpful and improve the experience of customers that she seemed to not just view as Mission BBQ customers, but HER customers. That type of pride in one's work cannot be easily faked for an entire shift.

We were present for the noon National Anthem presentation...which, as patriotic Americans, I think is a cool practice. We quickly realized how authentic the military and public service-themed decorations were when we saw a woman providing a framed picture of her husband that had died in Vietnam and an employee immediately hung it near our booth. We were moved and talked to the woman who told us how the owners / manager had gotten to know her story through their usual amazing and genuine customer service and asked that she bring in a photo. Their support of military and public service isn't just a marketing ploy....it's the real deal....which was driven home even further when they found out about my military service and offered a free (and delicious) peach cobbler with an invite to their military appreciation club in which they hold an annual military lunch (I believe).

Clearly we were very impressed at both the customer service and delicious food and will be returning again...

Years ago, I was taken to a Mission BBQ by a coworker for the first time. As we were on the way to a work trip, I hadnt the time to take-in the experience as we were in quite a rush. Earlier this week after leaving work, I decided to stop by their location in Columbia, this time solo. This was my second time at a M BBQ. Not being familiar with the menu, it took me a while to make a decision. The clerk that took my order (Irvin Gomez, who also happened to be the store manager) was very patient and explained the menu to me. He recommended the 3 meat entre, but I couldnt decide between the pulled pork, sausage, meatloaf and/or brisket. He graciously offered me to try 3 samples of interest to narrow my choices, which helped me decide on the 3 meat entre, bc they all tasted great. I asked if a salad comes with this entre and he said unfortunately no. However, I was welcome to add it as a side at extra cost, upon which I respectfully declined. After choosing a table, the food was brought out very quickly (immediately after my sitting down) and I noted the salad on the tray; the manager had added it for free on the house. Everything on the plate tasted great, especially the sausage and brisket with the proffesional smoke ring around the edges. Irvin the store manager stopped by my table to see how I liked the food and to see if anything else was needed before he left for the night. He also took the time to explain the different BBQ sauces on the table. As I finished up my meal, another clerk came by to check up to make sure all was well and entreat me to stop by again. I dont leave many food or restaurant reviews, but felt the need in this instance as the hospitality, atmosphere and friendliness of this establishment was second to none. Not to mention the great BBQ as well, but the customer service made the experience top notch. Not sure if this great customer service is the regular ethos of all M BBQ chains, but I will be going there again...

A trip to Mission BBQ leaves a person with a happy belly and a sense of security. Fall off the bone goodness! My husband and I are both fans of Mission's barbeque and the chicken. It is casual cafeteria style, but the line moves quickly and if there is a delay or special need, they will bring it to your table. The main sides are consistently good and there are rotating specialties. I think I figured out one of their secrets. They must roast their corn and potatoes in the same ovens with the meat. There is just a touch of the barbecue flavor. Divine! Portions are large enough to take home left overs, or you can take advantage of their carry out with a separate entrance at the Columbia location.

The restaurant is completely accessible with wide aisles, tables and some bench seating. There is outdoor seating in good weather. The hallway to the bathrooms is narrow, as is the entry area, but the accessible stall is large enough for transfers.

As others have said, their customer service is exemplary, second only to their dedication to military/police/fire/rescue causes. Like the collection of gear on the walls and insignia stapled in random areas, I...