Every year, Destination BBQ surveys thousands of South Carolinians to discover how they enjoy barbecue — from their favorite meats and sauces to restaurant habits, backyard cooking traditions, and more.
This is the most comprehensive, data-driven resource on South Carolina BBQ trends, trusted by journalists, pitmasters, and enthusiasts alike.
On this page, you’ll find the latest survey results along with past reports, providing a valuable archive of how South Carolina’s BBQ culture evolves over time.
Latest Report
2025 South Carolina BBQ Survey Report → [View Report]
Our newest and most detailed report yet. Explore how South Carolina’s barbecue lovers ranked their favorite meats, sauces, sides, restaurants, and cooking methods. See regional differences, county-level insights, and more.
All Survey Reports
About the South Carolina BBQ Survey
Conducted annually by Destination BBQ, this survey gathers feedback from more than 1,300 respondents across all regions of the Palmetto State. We explore everything from barbecue dining habits to home cooking preferences and online engagement.
Each report aims to:
- Provide trusted data for journalists, media outlets, and food writers
- Document regional differences and statewide trends
- Celebrate South Carolina’s rich and evolving barbecue culture
Want to participate in next year’s survey? Join our mailing list here
Journalists and writers are welcome to reference our surveys in articles and features. Please credit Destination BBQ and link back to the appropriate year’s report.
Media inquiries or interviews will only be conducted via email: [email protected]
FAQ: About the South Carolina BBQ Survey
The South Carolina BBQ Survey is an annual research project, first reported in 2025, conducted by Destination BBQ to document barbecue preferences across the state. Thousands of residents share their insights on meats, sauces, sides, restaurants, and more.
The South Carolina BBQ Survey is an annual research project conducted by Destination BBQ to document barbecue preferences across the state. Thousands of residents share their insights on meats, sauces, sides, restaurants, and more.
Every year. Started in 2025, a new survey is conducted annually, and the results are published each spring on Destination BBQ.
Yes! All reports will be archived on this page. Simply scroll up to view each year’s South Carolina BBQ Survey results.
The data is used by journalists, bloggers, barbecue enthusiasts, restaurateurs, and food historians to better understand South Carolina’s evolving barbecue traditions.
Join our mailing list or follow Destination BBQ on social media to be notified when the next survey opens.
According to the most recent survey, mustard-based sauces lead overall, but preferences vary by region. Vinegar-based sauces dominate the Pee Dee, while light tomato sauces are popular in the Upstate.
Yes. All survey results are published free of charge for public reference and media use.
