Welcome to The Smoke Pit
The Smoke Pit, located at 421 Cox Rd in Gastonia, NC, is a must-visit haven for barbecue lovers. Specializing in pit-cooked meats, their menu features mouthwatering options like Texas brisket, smoked turkey, and pulled BBQ chicken, all served with generous portions. Add-ons like ranch or blue cheese elevate your experience further. The restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by attentive service that leaves a lasting impression. Guests rave about the quality and value, often leaving with flavorful leftovers. With its commitment to delicious food and genuine hospitality, The Smoke Pit is a culinary gem worth exploring.
- 421 Cox Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054, United States421 Cox Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054, United States Hotline: +1 980-289-1941
Welcome to The Smoke Pit, a vibrant barbecue haven nestled at 421 Cox Rd, Gastonia, NC. This culinary gem is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination where flavor takes center stage and every bite tells a story. With a menu that boasts an impressive array of sandwiches, side dishes, and sauces, The Smoke Pit invites you to indulge in a smoky symphony of tastes that will leave your palate longing for more.
From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. The staff is exemplary, with enthusiastic servers like Greg who embody the spirit of genuine hospitality. As noted by patrons, the service here elevates the dining experience, from the moment you place your order to the final bite of your meal.
The sandwiches are the stars of the show. Try the Chopped Brisket Sandwich or the mouthwatering Burnt Ends Sandwich*—each crafted with care and bursting with flavor. Personal favorites from guests recommend the Turkey Melt and the robust Beefy Cheesy Sandwich*, which promise a satisfyingly rich experience. Each dish comes loaded, ensuring generous portions that often lead to leftover treasures to take home.
Pair your sandwich with an array of sides. The Sweet Potato Casserole and delectable Pint of Fried Sides are just a few of the choices that round out your meal. Don't forget to drizzle one of their house-made sauces—available in various sizes—over your food for that extra kick of flavor that enhances the overall barbecue experience.
The ambiance adds to the allure; though guests have mentioned the music could be less loud, the lively environment mirrors the bustling kitchen where culinary magic happens. You'll find yourself pleasantly distracted by the aroma of smoked meats wafting through the air, igniting your appetite even before you peruse the menu.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, The Smoke Pit has garnered a reputation that makes it a must-visit. As reviews from visitors like Donna Randolph and Marc Charlton suggest, it’s not just about the food—it's about creating moments and memories that linger. Come hungry, leave happy, and savor the smoky delights that await you.

Greg, you were a phenomenal server! We are from the Branson area- and I wish our service industry had YOUR genuine "service with a smile" attitude, you were just so NICE to us. Thank you! Can't wait to come back thru on vacation next year, SPECIFICALLY because of your impact on our dining experience.

The Smoke Pit has numerous items to choose from. From pork, chicken, brisket and several sides. You get a lot of food which is worth your money. While one tray fed both me and my husband we were left with plenty of leftovers to take home. The food was delicious. However, the food was a little salty for us, including the cornbread. Nice atmosphere and busy!

Got some amazing barbecue here! Luckily the target across the street had room for the big truck. The pound of brisket I ordered was amazing! And all sorts of sauces were available on the tables as well. Service was prompt and speedy, food was brought out very quickly. The only downside was the music was blaring! It would have been nice if it was cranked down about three notches.

The food was worth the stop!! Great atmosphere: I love how at home I felt eating here. The service was on point. They came by and asked if the food good and if we had any issues. I would recommend the turkey, sweet potato casserole, and barbecue nachos.

The Smoke Pit was great! Our food came out quickly and was so tasty. Greg was really great as well. I appreciated his energy after a long day! Would definitely recommend to anyone in the area!

Was not crowded as I walked in was welcomed by the smell of barbecue all around me. The portions are large and you will not be disappointed. Started with the Texas Twinkie and OMG, had brisket that just melted in your mouth, the ribs were exquisite and pulled pork perfectly cooked . My sides were the fantastic Baked beans and the phenomenal cheesy cream corn. You will not leave this place hungry or unhappy. I will be back. Peyton was my server and made the visit that much better.

I can’t believe I never noticed this location on the map before. We had a late lunch and I’ll tell you, this is the best BBQ we’ve ever had since Hutchins in McKinney TX. The brisket and pulled pork were both moist and flavorful, the burnt end and sausage were very tender, the TX Twinkies were creamy and delicious and OMG that corn - I got an additional pint to take home, along with a bottle of their Original sauce. We will definitely be visiting this place again and again!

Amazing beef ribs!!!! Can’t find these anywhere outside of Texas until now!! Also fantastic brisket and burnt ends!!! I don’t know how it took me 10 years to find this place!!! We drove 50 minutes from Hickory and will definitely be doing it again and again!!!! Highly recommend beef ribs, brisket, burnt ends, and creamed corn!!!! The Texas Twinkies were a fantastic appetizer. We also tried baked beans, fried okra, potato salad, jambalaya, Texas toast and hush puppies. Everything was very good, but the beans and jambalaya were both a little boring. Highly recommend for anyone looking for Texas style bbq. This is easily the best beef bbq I’ve had outside of Texas!!!