6 Best Barbeque Restaurants near Kings Mountain

“Amazing food the hot honey wings are perfection in a box. These guys have one of the best “smoked” flavors Ive ever had. 10/10 will always eat here when I see them. But be careful. This will cause you a slight addiction and eating wings and bbq anywhere else just wont be enjoyable LOL“

“Don't listen to any review that gives 3 stars and below. Yes, it's vinegar based, so is the slaw. People, food, atmosphere are great. I travel an hour from Union County to come here, well worth the trip. Quaint, nothing fancy. I don't know how anyone can say overpriced. The Jumbo Plate is $11, I'm a big guy, and it satisfies me very well.
Update 8/23/2026
I still love this place. I now live 84 miles away and just made the 90 minute drive with my brother. I will never hesitate to find an excuse to drive out to Shelby for some Red Bridges.
The prices have increased over time, but so, so worth it.
Anyone that gives them less than a 5 Star Review has an issue.
They have never failed to deliver a great NC BBQ experience.
Love This Place !!!!
I'm no stranger to eating and I'm always happy when I leave.“

“I recommend but do not recommend ever getting the daily special. We have been a dozen times and the only times we were not happy was getting the special. Ribs on special way way over cooked. wings on special not crispy and low on sauce. Both these meals are great on other nights but not on special nights. I think they precook to much and possible reheat them to much. Other than the special you will be happy“

“No matter what you order to eat you can bet that you are going to love it. Plus you get the most friendly smiles and service from the owners!“

“Oh how good this place was to eat! My husband and I went. We loved RO's BBQ but they closed down now, I'm sure the founders are rolling over in their graves.

The food was so good we absolutely loved it and will drive to go there again and again.“

“I just visited R.O.'s BBQ in Gastonia, North Carolina, a beloved local institution with a rich history spanning over seven decades. This family-owned establishment, founded by R.O. and Pearl Black in 1946, has been serving up delicious barbecue and sides to the community for generations, making it an integral part of Gastonia's culinary landscape.\n\nIn the early days, Pearl Black created the now-famous barbecue slaw recipe in her own kitchen, using a hand grater to prepare the ingredients. To this day, the same recipe has been passed down through the family, ensuring customers can still enjoy the same authentic taste that has made R.O.'s BBQ a local favorite.\n\nAfter R.O. and Pearl retired, their son Loyde took over the business with his sister Ruth. Together, they continued to grow the restaurant and maintain its reputation for exceptional barbecue and friendly service. Today, the third generation of the Black family carries on the traditions and recipes that have made it a favorite go-to destination for their unique style of barbecue deliciousness.\n\nI had my first R.O.'s BBQ sandwich when my family moved here in the 60s. I remember the night my dad came back with a bag full of those sandwiches, and it was love at first bite. Although I've tried BBQ all over Texas, Kansas City, St. Louis, and even lived in Memphis for over 20 years, R.O.'s unique style remains one of my absolute favorites. Instead of smoke, char, or BBQ sauce, it's more like a fine pork tenderloin cooked to perfection with a genius BBQ slaw on a panini-like pressed bun.\n\nOver the years, R.O.'s has expanded its offerings beyond BBQ sandwiches, with popular menu items such as hamburgers, the pimento burger with their homemade pimento cheese, BLT, roast pork, chicken and club sandwich, hot dogs, and a variety of sides like baked beans, hush puppies, and onion rings.\n\nThe atmosphere inside R.O.'s BBQ is clean and comfortable, reflecting its long history with walls adorned with photos and memorabilia that showcase the restaurant's past. This creates a sense of nostalgia and connection to the community it serves. For as long as I can remember, most people come here for the outside experience, enjoying the iconic curb service reminiscent of a bygone era. Customers enjoy their meals in the comfort of their vehicles, with friendly and efficient carhops ensuring a delightful and convenient experience. As a former "curb boy" here, I can attest to the enduring charm and character of this unique dining experience.\n\nOne more recent addition to the menu, which began as a trend during my time as a curb boy, is the "Cherry Lemon Sun Drop" – a delightful mix of the regionally favorite sodas Cheerwine and Sun Drop. Today, they've added lemons and cherries to the mix, creating a drink that is simply irresistible. You can also take home their unique and delicious coleslaw and pimento cheese by the pint or quart – I made sure to stock up on my latest visit.\n\nBottom line: R.O.'s BBQ in Gastonia, NC, is more than just a restaurant – it's a testament to the power of family, tradition, and a commitment to culinary excellence. With a history spanning over 75 years, it continues to serve up delicious barbecue and sides that keep customers coming back for more. The dining experience is truly one-of-a-kind and highly recommended!\n\nHours: Tues-Sat 11 AM–8 PM\nClosed Sun-Mon“