Railroad BBQ — Restaurant in Columbia

My son and I are in Columbia for a weekend trail racing event. While here, we decided to find a good place to eat. It was a toss up between Railroad BBQ and a gourmet hamburger place. After some discussion we decided to go to Railroad BBQ, and we're glad we made that choice!

When in an unfamiliar town looking for a good place to eat, I always hope for the best but am often disappointed with over-hyped reviews for an underwhelming place. This was not the case with Railroad BBQ. It far exceeded our expectations. We've eaten at several barbecue places in the state and have our favorites, but Railroad BBQ surpassed them all.

First, let's talk about the place. Railroad BBQ is located next to an actual working railroad track. The naming of the place is genius. If you can remember the barbecue place next to a railroad track, you will remember the name. The building looks as if it used to be a gas station in days gone by. But whatever it used to be, it's now a beautiful barbecue restaurant that is interesting and welcoming. Inside are several tables, booths, and counter service, and the outdoor area provides patio seating. The indoor dining area is filled with pictures, drawings, posters, sports pennants, banners, and more that reflect the personality, passions, and pursuits of the restaurant's founder, Kevin Gray.

Next, let's talk about the people. We were welcomed by a friendly young lady at the counter who took our order. We were invited to sit wherever we wished, and soon our food arrived. The same young lady visited our table a couple more times to check on us and ask if we needed drink refills or anything else. Another man also came by to check on us, and a third man also checked with us asking how everything was. This is outstanding service for a counter-service restaurant, better than most "full service" restaurants provide. Everyone we encountered was friendly and helpful.

Finally, let's give the food its due. Simply put, it was outstanding. My son and I love barbecue, and this really is the best we've had in South Carolina. It may be the best I've had anywhere! The brisket was moist and flavorful, the pulled pork simply delicious, and the chicken was the best I've had in a barbecue place. All the meat selections were moist and smoky, and the chicken and pork were pulled perfectly. Our sides were also good. The collards were very flavorful (I got the mild variety - they evidently have spicy collards, too). The mac and cheese was great and the potato salad tasted like the homemade stuff you'd get at a church supper. Since we both got the combo plates, we were very full, but could not resist dessert. So, we ordered their banana pudding and sweet potato pie. Both were very good, but I especially liked the pudding. It was creamy, full of banana flavor, and was so fresh that the wafers didn't have time to get soggy.

The only issue I have with Railroad BBQ is that it is three hours from where I live! Now I have to find some reasons to visit Columbia so I can eat at my new favorite...

The food was without a doubt exquisite! BBQ executed to perfection. The beef brisket was tender and packed with flavor. Their unique dipping vinaigrette was an unexpected surprise with its sweet yet spicy finish. The cornbread was so delicious that my husband diverted my attention and stole half of mine! We both loved the potato wedges and baked beans. Not a scrap of food was left on either of our plates. My husband and I were feeling pretty full, however we couldn't pass up the opportunity to taste a dessert after being so thoroughly impressed with everything else here. We finally decided on the banana pudding to share. Slices of fresh bananas (not browned at all), and crunchy cookies were found in every bite of this pudding. As delicious as the food is here, it could never overshadow the warm and friendly staff. There is an abundance of history that covers every wall and table. As a big fan of Billie Holiday I had to find her amongst the collage. Mr. Gray was quick to pick up on my inquisitive search and promptly helped me locate her, and several other historically familiar faces. If you are so lucky as to strike up a conversation with Mr. Gray, do yourself a favor and sit back and listen. His personable attitude is dripping with a wealth of distinct "been there" knowledge that will without a doubt intrigue....

Love this place, we...

I was very very impressed from the time I walked to the main doorway. Once inside I was in awe at the decor! Many memorable/historic pictures nicely hung all over the walls and embedded in the tables. Beautiful establishment! I was warmly welcomed and given a small menu to order my takeout. They are only doing takeout during these troubling times. I ordered The L&C which you get to pick two meats. Yes looking at this beautiful place made me hungry! So I proceed to order the pull pork and beef brisket. My two sides were the Mac & Cheese and the Vegan Black Beans. I tried all three of their BBQ sauces (regular, gold and vinegar based). The meat was very tasty and tender. The Mac & Cheese was slammin! I didn't care for the Vegan Black Beans though. The beans were a little hard like but the flavor was good. I will return especially once they officially open the place up for dining inside. I recommend this place for any BBQ fan to try. Just checking out the many pictures is a treat. There's a table with pics dedicated to the late Chadwick Boseman... So Get On Up and go check out...