Bubba's Barbecue

Only thing that was great was the tenders and the bbq burnt ends. I really had big expectations of this restaurant, but was totally disappointed. First of all, my partner and I spent $40 dollars because we read the reviews and were just like maybe it’s a “see for yourself” type of ordeal, but boy were we wrong. When the owner came over, we tried to tell him about how the food was, and don’t you know he came up with some bull excuse about how most restaurants can’t get their brisket OR their ribs tender because of “health codes” they have to follow! Man, that was a load of bologna. He said that they smoked them for ten hours plus, so that’s just the way good bbq is, tough!? Like dude, are you really that delusional. I was so pissed I didn’t even cause a problem, I’d rather just pay and leave. The macaroni and cheese had ZERO FLAVOR! The collard greens tasted like they probably weren’t washed but were just thrown in some water, and like they put just black pepper in it, then the brisket was so tough that it was all in my teeth and partners, and was just aggravating trying to eat something that you know ain’t supposed to be like that. Needless to say, this restaurant reminds me of that mean couple on Gordon Ramsey who literally thought they knew how things were supposed to go, but didn’t get any business because nobody couldn’t tell them anything. This, is restaurant needs help asap!

I had high hopes for my visit, especially after the friendly service from the young lady who made the experience pleasant. She really gave me great attention, and I was excited to try the burnt ends. Unfortunately, the meal fell short. The burnt ends were drenched in oil and tasted as though they were cooked in an oven with liquid smoke—nothing like what I expected. The portion was disappointing as well, with mostly fatty pieces and very little meat. I couldn't even eat most of it. After noticing a BBQ sign nearby while in the Popeyes line, I decided to give it a try, but sadly, it was a letdown. In the rainy weather, I ordered online, hoping for a satisfying meal, but what I received was a greasy, inedible mess of fat. I was really disappointed.

Stopped in for some bbq and I love this place! From the hospitality, the nostalgic ambiance to the food it was all great. We dined on the pork belly burnt ends (because why wouldn’t you) and the pit master sampler. The sides we had were the mac&cheese, green beans, bacon broccoli salad, coleslaw and banana pudding for dessert. It all tasted great, fresh made and good portions. Definitely worth the 40 min drive for us! If you haven’t been, you’re missing out.

Walked about 1/3 mile to experience this instead of Popeyes. Take out. Ordered the pulled pork sandwich with mac/cheese and bbq beans. While waiting i noticed they had bbq sauce for sale. I grabbed one since the counter gentlemen said it was really good. The sandwich was ok. The mac/cheese was ok and the beans were just ok. The sauce? Nothing but spicy vinegar. Everything was just ok- I was hoping for at least one or two of them to be amazing- but nothing was. Kinda disappointed- but maybe it was an off day.

1st time visitor - So I'm sitting in my office in the Metrolina businesspark this morning and the doorbell rings...I open the door and find this guy dressed in a Bubba Shirt standing there looking all hot, tired, and sweaty. He launches right into his spiel about how Bubba's has reopened and he's out pounding the pavement drumming up new business. He hands me a handful of fliers for the break room and some business cards good for a free sandwich! Awesome! I figure, if this guy can brave the heat to promote his business, who am I to say no? I headed over at lunch and decided to try both the BBQ and brisket sandwiches. Glad I did! Wow! Full of slow-cooked meat, tasty and delicious! Sauce on the side so I could season to taste (I don't like a big, wet, sloppy BBQ sandwich so that was a nice touch!) A little side of slaw and fun inish it all off with a cold sweet tea and I'll tell you...I think I've found my new go-to lunch spot! I'll be back!

Coming from Massachusetts , BBQ isn't as common. We had stopped to grab some lunch here and it did not disappoint! We tried the pit master sampler , the chicken tenders are out of this world . Their BBQ sauce is very good as well! The lady that took our order was amazing , such a sweet soul checking in with us making sure we were ok and our food was tasting good! Their banana pudding is by the best I've ever had in my 22 years of living! Happy we made the decision to stop here during our travel!!

Local Eastern Style BBQ, quite popular Unusual mustard based cole slaw was surprisingly good..... never had it before. Myself, a big fan of Red Bridge's in Shelby, thoroughly enjoyed Bubba's. Cannot compare the two because of the recipes. I would definitely recommend Bubba's Fantastic atmosphere, fantastic staff, amazing ice cream sandwiches I don't care how full you are, get one!!!

It was my first experience there. Food was really good and the special sauce was amazing and Mr. Bubba was extremely entertaining. Looking forward to going back soon when I'm in Charlotte again!

I ordered 1/2 chicken and they were out of chicken that fast... it was just 11:00 am. Our group consisted of 21 people and we were all served within 5 minutes of our order which was Unbelievable! My chicken tender sandwich was 5 pieces of chicken chunks on a bun without lettuce or tomatoes and needed more seasoning. Hush puppies and string beans were good. I didn't like the texture of my fries. The beef brisket was okay. The staff was very friendly and helpful. I would return for the great customer service.

Bubba's is my go to for Eastern Carolina BBQ. I took my girlfriend to give it a try. She was fortunate because Bubba Miller was there to serve our food and provide entertainment. He made her experience memorable and for Bubba to spend time with us just made the food taste better, which is already top notch for Eastern Carolina BBQ! The icing was the banana pudding which we took home. Thanks Bubba for the delicious meal!

The food is great but interacting with witty Bubba makes the experiences unique! Sometimes there's even free 'nana pudding.

Great service and delicious bbq. Homemade honey mustard is to die for. Bubba took our order and he was the friendly and very funny. I will definitely be back.

Stopped in for some bbq and I love this place! From the hospitality, the nostalgic ambiance to the food it was all great. We dined on the pork belly burnt ends (because why wouldn't you) and the pit master sampler. The sides we had were the mac&cheese, green beans, bacon broccoli salad, coleslaw and banana pudding for dessert. It all tasted great, fresh made and good portions. Definitely worth the 40 min drive for us! If you haven't been, you're missing out.

We like going here. The atmosphere is great. The food is great. However, when we ordered our drinks there was literally no alcohol in them. We are an older couple and have been around long enough to know when we are getting our money's worth.

it is the worst place to come to very worst place. I waited one hour, but the food taste good, but I do not recommend

Had a work appointment nearby and my colleague, familiar with the area, took me here. The food was outstanding (had the Brisket plate) sides of green beans and some awesome Mac n Cheese - Loved how each plate comes with hush puppies too. But the best part of the experience was the owner Bubba/Ralph - coming by to chat with us. This guy should do stand up comedy. He was hilarious with his dead panned / dry sense of humor! Really made it memorable. Everyone needs to put it on their Charlotte BBQ bucket list if not in your regular rotation.

Great great pulled sandwich, Devoured it. Before I knew it. I was like oh, I ate it already. Power to the yum, I'll be back.

If you are looking for great BBQ or Brisket Bubba's dining room has reopened it's dining room after two years. The take out has been open but now you can eat in from 11:00 to 8:00 PM. Still great food!

This is the best NC barbecue and the owner visits each table to inquire of satisfaction. My only disappointment is the pandemic has made it impossible to find employees and wait-staff so after flying in from AZ, I nearly cried as they haven't been able to re-open ...but hope to in June! The owner saw us pull in and came to speak to us...that is just the kind of place that needs our support. I will be back to get my favorite BBQ sandwich!!

Got some BBQ to go. Best I have ever had. No fat, no skin... Just pure lean pork. Love the red slaw and hush puppies too.

Service is only reason for 2 stars. Got brisket sandwich. Side of Mac and baked beans. Brisket is over cooked taste like a literal sloppy joe. Mac and cheese is like sand and overcooked as well. Didn't even get the baked beans. Save your money and go to the cookout across the street.

We were on this side of town and stopped in based on a friend recommendation. They raced about the food and said it was an institution. The inside has photos all over of Bubba's travels and him on everything from the great to Paris with a Bubba t-shirt on. The menu is tight and has traditional bbq to chicken and waffles (I assume that's a trendy add). We opted for the family meal so we could get a little bit of everything. We picked the ribs, chicken tenders, baked beans, potato salad and onion rings. The ribs were not fall off the bone tender so not my style at all. Kids said the tenders were okay and we had to buy buns for the chopped bbq (they did come steamed). Staff was friendly and very accommodating however it's not making my top 5 list of bbq in CLT area.

Excellent food. Banana pudding is off the charts. Love this place. Very personable staff. Thank you

Just stopped by here after noticing that it has reopened. Also this was my first time here but had heard great things about the place. I will definitely have to say this is one of the best BBQ places I have ever been too. The food is excellent. Definitely 5 stars. The owner was delightful. We will be back.

Ordered dinner one night and got the ribs and chicken with hush puppies and fries. The ribs were 4 undercooked pieces of fat overly smothered in bbq sauce and were totally inedible. They're wasn't even a bone just softened cartilage. The chicken was a dried out chicken breast with zero taste The fries and hush puppies were soggy and tasted like they were just reheated in a microwave. Nothing for that matter tasted fresh or well made. We ordered at dinner time so everything should've been good. Manager just gave an empty apology. My suggestion is to drive by and find someplace else. Not worth the money or time.

Bubba's BBQ is my favorite Barbecue in Charlotte. So glad they survived Covid and back open for business. Delicious food. Great service.

Can't believe Bubba was actually here when we visited for the first time! It's like going to Disney world and Walt giving you a tour of the place! Started off with the best hush puppies this side of the Mississippi (probably best on the other side, I've just never been there) My wife had the Eastern NC BBQ Plate and I had the 24-hour marinated southern fried chicken tenders. 10/10 WOULD RECOMMEND GREAT SERVICE GREAT ATMOSPHERE GREAT JOKES BY BUBBA

Great authentic BBQ. Stopped in for lunch and ordered their lunch special which is an 18 hour slow cooked pork, sweet tea, and unlimited hush puppies. The manager Donna was beyond friendly, great service, and very welcoming as if this was her own restaurant. The food was delicious.

We enjoyed some great Eastern NC BBQ. Probably would not have thought to come here, but David at the Latta Plantation Nature Center (great guy and great place by the way) told us about Bubbas. So after a leisurely stroll through the Raptor Center (also awesome) we decided to check out Bubbas. And we are glad we did. Friendly waitress, great food, great place! Come hungry!

Always wanted to try Bubba'sBBQ. Finally got to try it. It was terrible. The Eastern Style by Bubba's is laughable. Bubba needs to send his crew to Lancaster's in Long Creek, NC right up the road from Bubba's. Now they have real Eastern Style cue. The fries at Bubba's were nasty as well. Some kind of seasoning I have no idea what. I thought Arby's had nasty fries but Bubba's wins hands down in the nasty fries dept. Finally I thought for sure Bubba's would get the Brunswick Stew right. I guess it was too much to ask for. It was greasy and nasty as well. In all, three up three down. Bubba's struck out and had to be benched. My advice is if you want great Eastern Style BBQ go to Lancaster's down Beatties Ford Road in Long Creek, NC. You'll be glad you did.

I'd skipped Bubba's for a few years and must say that this latest Friday night on the way to Florida experience was a letdown. The place was nearly empty, which might be a sign of changes. The BBQ was cold and dry. It just wasn't that good. I'll give Bubba Miller one more chance because he has satisfied my craving for Eastern NC BBQ, but if it goes like this again, we're done.

This is one of the best BBQ places in the Charlotte area (and one of the older ones since it was originally Spoon's Barbecue) , and they serve some excellent country cooking items as well. The pork here is whole hog, Eastern NC style barbecue cooked in electric pits with a few hickory chips thrown in near the end, and thus has little smokiness, but properly sauced it has a decent taste, though it is a little too finely chopped, in my opinion. The sauce is vinegar based, Eastern NC style without a lot of heat. This is good, solid, but not spectacular, chopped BBQ. The slaw is the yellow version ( a little mustard is added) found generally only in the east (and even there, sparingly, and I really like it, on either a plate or a sandwich. Hush puppies are very nice, among my favorites, as well. Their French Fries are just great, about as good as you'll find in any NC BBQ joint - I love'em. The BBQ Chicken here is nice also. The Brunswick Stew is ok, but doesn't wow you. The Chicken and Dumplings are very much worth a shot, as is the meatloaf, and beef tips. Sides are consistently good. This place is what it is, a solid, above average BBQ joint, and there simply aren't that many decent NC style barbecue choices in the Charlotte area. You can do much worse than eat a meal or two here.

Excellent Eastern North Carolina chopped barbecue! I topped it with some good homemade vinegar based bbq sauce and a side of yellow coleslaw that had a nice kick to it as well. The hush puppies were hot and crispy! Donna, the manager, was extremely friendly and made us feel welcome. Its located right off the exit at I-77 and worth finding for your bbq fix!

I am have lived in North Carolina for over 20 years and I have eaten a LOT of Eastern North Carolina BBQ. But I have to say that if you haven't eaten Bubba's Chopped Pork BBQ, you haven't experienced the BEST BBQ in the State if North Carolina. This BBQ was so good, I didn't want to ruin the great taste with sauce. If you haven't been to Bubba's, RUN don't walk. You have no idea what you are missing. Take it from a friend.

Mmmmmmm. The hubby and I met up with some friends here after spending a wedding weekend in Charlotte. This place isn't much to look at, but it came highly recommended by a Charlotte-an. We loved it. There was deliciously sweet iced tea, all you can eat hush puppies, the biggest onion rings I've ever seen. Then, of course, there was the meat. I found it interesting that ribs were ribs, but barbecue was what I would just call pulled pork. Both were delicious. If I were ever in Charlotte again, I'd stop in.

This was our third night in the Charlotte area and we had not yet tried to find some barbecue. Bubba's looked like a good choice and was not too far from our hotel. We were a little early and pretty much had the place to ourselves at first. Hushpuppies were provided. They were not sweetened but were fairly oniony which covered up the mild corn flavor. We prefer them without onion. The coleslaw was the yellow mustardy style that apparently you get in this part of the world. I've heard it called Eastern style, but can't say I've had it this way at the other places I've been in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain. Maybe I have just forgotten. This one had a flavor that I had a hard time identifying. I'm sure it came from the mustard, but is not mustard seed itself. It reminded me of bathroom cleaner, really. I spent most of the meal trying to figure it out, then it came to me. They are using a flavored prepared mustard, perhaps mint or some other herb. I found it unpleasant and distracting. Bottom line is I did not like this version. The green beans are pretty plain with just some onion added. They needed salt, a splash of vinegar and a little barbecue meat, side meat or jowl or something. The baked beans were actually the best side and they were also pretty simple. They were probably seasoned with the rib sauce which is very dark, kind of Kansas City style. The ribs were full untrimmed spare ribs with plenty of fat. They were not smoked, showing no pink from the process and leaving no smoke on your hands. I don't believe they were grilled either. Grill flavor was not there. Whether I am correct or not, they appeared to be roasted somehow. Later I read that they use an electric cooker, so that could explain it. They were also very solid, toothy. I don't want mush and don't fully subscribe to the fall-off-the-bone preference, but these were not done. So they were underdone roast pork with an herb rub that was hidden by that heavy KC style sauce. They are served individually cut apart. You could never pull them apart at the table. The chopped pork barbecue was pretty much the same as the ribs in having no smoke (again the electric cooker). Their sauce is just vinegar and red pepper, with no salt. I have eaten a lot of eastern style sauces and love them. This was crude and did not help the pork much. The meat was chopped medium fine. It was served sauced about right, not wet or dry and not fatty. I don't expect heavy smoke in Eastern NC pork, but a little please. This was just roasted pork to me. Some places you get poorly conceived and poorly made food. Those I give 1-2 stars. This was not like that, it was just not my style. So I give them credit (three stars) for what they do, I think it is a matter of personal preference. This experience scared us out of any further tries for barbecue while in Charlotte. We will save it for our next trip that takes us to Raleigh and points east.

During the pandemic lockdown, my son called to see if they were offering curbside takeout (this was shortly after most restaurants had reopened and offered such services). I had him call and put it on speaker because I was driving. The man who answered the phone was extremely rude and proceeded to yell at my son about wanting food during a pandemic. Who talks to what is obviously a kid like that? All my son asked was, "do you offer takeout?" If you don't want to offer that service during the pandemic, that's fine, but either just say that or let the call go to voicemail. I haven't been back since then and don't plan on ever returning. I gave two stars because the food is ok although overrated based on past visits. However, any restaurant that treats potential customers that way should be avoided in my opinion.

By now, everyone has seen or heard of 'Kitchen Nightmares'. If you haven't, here's a brief synopsis: Chef Gordon Ramsay visits various eateries on the verge of closing, to determine what's wrong and help them turn around. In all cases, it starts with the food being very bad, followed by the owner(s) trying to do everything to bring back the customers- except fix the actual problem- the horrible food. This is the problem with Bubba's. As one pulls into the parking lot, it's hard not to notice the lack of vehicles in a near-empty parking lot- which is odd, seeing that the fast food joints in its vicinity are full, or near capacity (this should be red-flag #1 to go elsewhere). Walking, in, you'll notice a smattering of awards on the wall- none of which are recent (and all are very dusty.). This theme direction continues in the main dining area, with seemingly hundreds of fading photos showing people wearing Bubba's t-shirts, and fake cartoon art imitating the styles of Bob Kane, Jack Kirby and others, along with a smattering of non-related purchased framed art. I won't even go into the gimmicks contained in the men's bathroom So, what about the food? In a word: horrendous. The chicken and pork were incredibly tasteless, dry and overcooked, as if they had sitting in a convection oven for a couple of hours. The meatloaf, aside from being totally tasteless, seemed like it had been cooked via being boiled in a pot of water. The Hushpuppies were near-inedible, tasting and smelling like they had been cooked in rancid grease that had not been changed in months. The cole-slaw was practically dry, cut-up cabbage, with little to no mayo vinegar or anything resembling a sauce you would expect to find in coleslaw, anywhere in the world. The green beans tasted like they were straight out of a can, that had been opened and dumped on the plate. The potatoes in the potato salad were incredibly under cooked, with a crunchy texture. The deserts appear to all have been purchased from Walmart- and they taste like it. So, how do they stay in business? How is it that they haven't folded? Simply put, they have one-time business customers: they advertise on the freeway. Potential suckers see them listed on the "food/gas/lodging" sign, and stop in, thinking they're going to have a meal of Carolina BBQ, which it is technically true My advice: stay away. Stay far far way. You'll be far better off going to Denny's or going hungry for an hour, and finding some other place to eat at. This place is a disgrace to not only Carolina-style, but BBQ in general.

i must say i hated the food!!! it was not fresh and the meatloaf was dry!!! the customer service was horrible!!! they were not friendly and we're extremely racist!!! do not eat here they have no respect for black people or the community that they serve!!! #blackmoneymatters

Stopped due to reviews. The food was ok at best. The pork bbq was moist but had very little taste besides pork. Had better at the house. The best thing was the hush puppies, crispy on the outside tender in the inside. The weird mustard coleslaw us a hard pass. Too sweet for a mustard base slaw. The Brunswick stew tasted canned.

A good kept secret. Location is off of I-77 on Sunset....just look for the pig in the yard! Great food, friendly staff, plenty of room inside, but good for take out as well. Ribs-great Chicken-great BBQ is great

Server was extremely friendly and made sure kids drinks and hush puppies did not run low! Chicken tenders were as great as promised, bbq pork was tasty with a slightly spicy kick. Ribs had a good flavor but were chewy and hard to enjoy. Restrooms were clean and left the kids laughing!

Chopped Eastern North Carolina style Barbecue sandwich with slaw (yellow). Very good. Brunswick stew as a side. Good. Could be seasoned more. Broth was a little bland. Plenty of vegetables and chicken. Ice Cream sandwich (plain) is good finish to the lunch. Server did his job well, and he was tipped well.

Stopped on our way through and thoroughly enjoyed everything. Bubba is super friendly and so is the staff. The portions are huge, so go hungry. Excellent value, great environment. My kids were entertained by all of the memorabilia on the walls. Awesome all around.

Bubba's does Eastern NC BBQ right! If you were weaned on Eastern NC 'cue and are desperate for a taste without a 3 hour drive, this is the place for you. The meat is tender and moist and the Eastern NC sauce is PERFECT! Now, I know this isn't the most important thing about a BBQ place, but the french fries are amazingly crisp and delicious as well.

After pulling off the freeway for gas, we were tempted by the signs for Bubba's BBQ. Pay attention because the signs, photos, and decor are funny & clever, and mostly original! BBQ pork was tasty; beans very nice and hush puppies amazing. Bubba himself provided the entertainment. Puns and double entendre accented his tableside schtick. Stay sharp or you find yourself the pork butt of his jokes. Be sure to ask him about his newborn niece.

We stopped by for a quick bite to eat. First time here. Food and service were excellent!

The service was nice, friendly and fast. I'm giving it a 1 star for the food and price. It literally tasted and looked like everything came out of a old can. The consistency was real weird on every level. Probably the worst BBQ food I've ever had. I don't know how else to put it. But if you can avoid it, you should. It was real expensive for the quality of food too. It was $18 for a standard pulled pork plate with a drink. Seriously so bad. But they were friendly and nice. That's about it though. Sorry bubba, you need a makeover. You're giving NC BBQ a bad rep.

Yummy! So clean & such nice people! On our way back to CHS after 7 weeks on the road. Best take-out of all. Easy to eat, precisely packed BBQ sandwich. Classic NC style. Easy on & off @ 77 & 21.

Now, as a vegan, one probably is confused as to why I'd go to a barbeque place and enjoy it. Mostly I go because of the sweet tea! The waitresses are really good at making sure your glass is always full (and they give you some to go when you leave...). The owner is really kind and the building has a very old, kind, southern feel to the it. Just for the environment I would recommend it. I'm not so sure about the food though; I can tell you that the coleslaw, green beans and french fries were decent though!

$14 for a regular size barbecue plate and a ice water ! Would not be a problem for good BBQ, but this was average at best. The Chopped pork was mushy, with very little smoke taste, & consistency of canned tuna. I remember the BBQ being good the b last time i eat there, 10+ years ago. I have eaten a lot of great NC & SC BBQ. If Bubba's was in Goldsboro or Wilson they would be out of business.

I've eaten Bubba's on a few different occasions and it's always been solid. It's a bit out of the way for me (Sunset Blvd.), but when I'm in the area it's a classic stop for some tasty Carolina 'cue. I think I kick up my 3.5 rating to 4.0 as the service has been just so kind. Bubba is one of the nicest restaurant owners I've ever met and the servers are truly salt of the Earth people. Plus, Bubba often donates product to a local charity for events, which makes this place aces in my book. As for the food, you'll be in and out in no time as the food comes out in a flash. I typically order the petite plate as and I unfortunately enjoy the included hush puppies a bit too much. :) It's not the best 'cue I've had in Charlotte, but I do enjoy it quite a bit! The digs are pretty basic and nondescript, but I'm usually there to grab a quick bite of 'cue and if I'm in the need of a major sugar rush - a sweet tea.

Good 'cue, plain and simple. The building has a very old south feel to it and lends to a good meal. Now I'm not the biggest fan of the Eastern style vinegar-based sauce but it definitely went well with the pork. The ribs were flavorful and large, just the way they should be. I'll definitely be stopping in once and awhile for more.

Clean, friendly, left full and satisfied. The menu isn't terribly broad, but It seems like they try to focus on what they do best, Carolina pulled pork. Andi our waitress was friendly and attentive. The pulled pork plate is enough for two sandwiches, you get slaw and a side with it, fir a dollar you can add a small cup of chicken based stew. Spend that dollar, the stew is tasty. I agree with RE, don't be scared away by a couple of bad reviews, there is no reason to rate this less than a 4 star.

Finally stopped in for lunch today after driving by Bubba's about a thousand times. I had the BBQ pork plate w/ slaw and beans. It was OK. Nothing special. Just OK. The pork is the finely chopped eastern style. Sauce again the thin eastern style. Which is OK, but nothing distinguishing about any of it. Portions were good. Price average for the area. In summary, I won't go out of my way to eat here again. Better Q out there for sure. But if there at the suggestion of others in a group, I'll be OK with it.

I was recommended to go here for lunch by a local, so I had high expectations. I have to say I was let down. I tried the pulled barbeque plate, which is their go to item with hush puppies, country style potato salad, and slaw...I was let down on the flavor....had to pour sauce on my meat to flavor it up....overall disappointing

Servers were friendly and timely! Food was severely overpriced for the quality. Kenny B's review hit the nail on the head! BBQ was gross, slaw was grosser. French fries, onion rings and hush puppies all tasted the same, also gross. Was like $34 with a $6 tip and cookout would have tasted 5 times better. Could be a great place and worth the money but the food quality was horrible. I'd suggest finding bbq elsewhere.