Little Pigs Barbecue Menu with Prices, Calories and Popular Items
Little Pigs Barbecue is a legendary name in Southern casual dining, celebrated for its hickory-smoked meats, classic Southern sides, and regional Carolina sauces. Because "Little Pigs Barbecue" operates as several historically related but independently owned locations-most notably the famous all-you-can-eat buffet on Alpine Road in Columbia, South Carolina, and the beloved locations in Asheville, North Carolina, and Clemson, South Carolina-menus, service styles, and prices vary by location.
If you are a barbecue enthusiast comparing regional smokehouse styles and prices, you might also enjoy checking out the Prime Barbecue menu, the Mabel's BBQ menu, or the Station 8 BBQ menu. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Little Pigs Barbecue menu, including estimated buffet prices, carry-out options, popular items, calorie notes, and smart ordering tips.
Official Source Verification
Menus, prices, calories, and availability can vary by location, delivery platform, and time. LatestMenus checks official restaurant sources where available and marks uncertain information clearly.
Latest Little Pigs Barbecue Menu Prices
Because of the differences between the buffet-style service in Columbia, SC, and the classic plate-and-sandwich service in Asheville, NC, the tables below are organized to help you navigate both styles of menus. Prices are estimates based on in-store menus and will vary.
1. The Famous Dine-In Buffet (Columbia, SC Location)
The buffet price traditionally includes all-you-can-eat meats, sides, desserts, and your drink.
| Menu Item | Category | Price | Calories | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Buffet (Wed & Thu) | Buffet | $15.99 (Est.) | Not published | Large appetites | Includes soft drink or sweet tea. |
| Adult Buffet (Fri, Sat, Sun) | Buffet | $17.99 (Est.) | Not published | Weekend dining | Premium weekend meat selections. |
| Senior Buffet (Ages 65+) | Buffet | $14.99 (Est.) | Not published | Seniors | Discounted price available daily. |
| Child Buffet (Ages 4-9) | Buffet | $7.99 (Est.) | Not published | Kids | Includes kid-sized drink. Under 3 free. |
2. Plates and Platters
Plates are typically served with your choice of two classic Southern sides and hushpuppies or a roll.
| Menu Item | Category | Price | Calories | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bar-B-Que Pork Plate | Entree Platter | $11.49 - $13.99 | Not published | Classic BBQ fans | Chopped or pulled hickory-smoked pork. |
| Beef Brisket Plate | Entree Platter | $14.99 - $16.99 | Not published | Hearty meals | Tender, slow-cooked sliced beef brisket. |
| Smoked Chicken Plate | Entree Platter | $10.99 - $12.99 | Not published | Lighter options | Half chicken slow-cooked over wood coals. |
| Bar-B-Que Rib Plate | Entree Platter | $14.99 - $18.99 | Not published | Big appetites | Thick-cut, dry-rubbed baby back ribs. |
| Wings Plate | Entree Platter | $11.99 (Est.) | Not published | Game day | Smoked wings tossed in choice of sauce. |
| Combination Plate | Entree Platter | $16.99 (Est.) | Not published | Variety | Your choice of any two smoked meats. |
3. Sandwiches & Bulk Carry-Out
Sandwiches are perfect for quick lunches, while bulk carry-out by the pound is ideal for family tailgates.
| Menu Item | Category | Price | Calories | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pork Sandwich | Sandwich | $5.49 - $6.99 | Not published | Quick lunch | Served on a toasted bun with pickles. |
| Beef Brisket Sandwich | Sandwich | $7.99 - $9.49 | Not published | Hearty lunch | Sliced smoked brisket. |
| Pork by the Pound | Bulk Carryout | $13.99 - $15.99 | Not published | Families | Chopped pork; serves approx. 3-4 people. |
| Rack of Ribs (Whole) | Bulk Carryout | $24.99 - $28.99 | Not published | Tailgating | Full rack of slow-smoked ribs. |
| Quart of Southern Side | Bulk Carryout | $9.99 (Est.) | Not published | Group sides | Feeds roughly 5-6 people. |
Popular Menu Items
| Popular Item | Why People Order It | Price Note | Calorie Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| The All-You-Can-Eat Buffet | Allows diners to sample all regional sauces, ribs, wings, and multiple sides in one sitting. | Usually $15-$18 | Not published |
| Chopped Pork Sandwich | The classic Southern staple smoked low and slow over wood coals. | Usually under $7 | Not published |
| Hickory-Smoked Ribs | Known for a deep smoke ring and tender texture without being mushy. | Premium priced | Not published |
| Homemade Mac & Cheese | Rich, baked macaroni with a golden cheese crust; highly rated side dish. | Included with plates | Not published |
Editor Picks: Best Things to Order
These are LatestMenus editorial recommendations based on available menu research, value, popularity, customization potential, and practical ordering usefulness. They are not official restaurant rankings.
The All-You-Can-Eat Buffet (Columbia, SC)
If you are at the Alpine Road location, skipping the buffet is a mistake. It is the best way to experience everything they offer, including premium ribs and wings.
Pork by the Pound
Buying smoked pork in bulk and taking it home is significantly cheaper per serving than buying individual plates.
Quart of Southern Sides
A single quart of baked beans or mac and cheese can feed 5-6 people easily, making family-style sharing a breeze.
Smoked Chicken Plate (No Sauce)
Smoked chicken without the sugary barbecue sauces is a lean, high-protein meal that still delivers huge wood-fired flavor.
Chopped Pork Sandwich
The standard by which all Carolina BBQ joints are judged. Served on a simple bun, letting the hickory smoke shine.
Southern Sweet Tea
A non-negotiable pairing for Carolina BBQ. It cuts through the rich pork fat and spicy mustard sauces perfectly.
Cheapest Items and Best Value Picks
Eating on a budget at Little Pigs Barbecue is highly satisfying if you know how to order.
| Value Pick | Why It Can Be Good Value | Watch Out For | Best Ordering Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Lunch Buffet | Includes unlimited ribs, wings, and drinks, which carry steep markups if ordered individually. | Long lines during peak lunch hours. | Go mid-week (Wed/Thu) for the lowest price tier. |
| The Piglet Sandwich | A junior-sized pork sandwich that costs under $5. | It is smaller than standard sandwiches. | Great for kids or pairing with multiple sides. |
| Family Bulk Carryout | One pound of meat and a quart of sides feeds a family for far less than four individual platters. | You need to provide your own plates/buns at home. | Call 48 hours ahead if ordering for a massive party. |
Calories and Nutrition Notes
Because Little Pigs Barbecue consists of small, historically independent local restaurants, official nutrition facts and calorie counts are not published.
| Menu Area | Nutrition Note | Best For | Source Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoked Meats | Plain pulled pork, sliced brisket, and chicken are high-protein, low-carb options if unsauced. | Low-carb / Keto diners | Low (No official counts) |
| BBQ Sauces | Vinegar-based sauces are lowest in sugar; red and mustard sauces add sweet calories (honey/molasses). | Managing sugar intake | Low (General BBQ knowledge) |
| Southern Sides | Macaroni and cheese, potato salad, and hushpuppies are highly calorie-dense. | Indulgent meals | Low (General BBQ knowledge) |
Allergen and Dietary Notes
Please note that cross-contamination is a high risk at buffet and busy smokehouse locations.
| Dietary Need | What to Check | Important Note |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Plain smoked meats (pork, chicken, brisket) are generally gluten-free without the bun. | Avoid hushpuppies, mac and cheese, and fried items. Check sauces with staff. |
| Vegetarian | Coleslaw, potato salad, and mac & cheese. | Options are very limited. Traditional greens and beans are often cooked with pork fat. |
| Peanut/Nut Allergy | Desserts like pecan pie or banana pudding. | Nut use is rare in BBQ, but always confirm with management to be safe. |
Special Menu Sections
Bulk Catering and Tailgate Orders
For large groups, Little Pigs offers extensive bulk order menus.
| Item or Section | What It Includes | Price/Calorie Note | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meats by the Pound | Pork, brisket, or chicken served in bulk containers. | Prices vary; calories not published. | Family meals at home. |
| Gallons of Tea | A full gallon jug of their famous sweet or unsweet tea. | Highly affordable add-on. | Tailgates and picnics. |
Best For: Who This Menu Guide Helps
This guide is especially useful for:
- Locals and travelers checking buffet hours and prices before driving to Columbia, SC.
- Families looking for the best value carryout options to feed a crowd.
- Barbecue fans comparing regional prices and styles against other smokehouses.
- Diners with gluten sensitivities looking to navigate a Southern BBQ menu safely.
Ordering Tips From LatestMenus
Make the most of your visit to Little Pigs Barbecue with these practical strategies.
- Check your local restaurant for exact prices and hours. Because the Asheville, Clemson, and Columbia locations are independent, they do not share the exact same pricing or operating hours.
- Beat the buffet rush. The Columbia buffet is famously crowded on Sundays after church and on college football weekends. Arrive before 11:30 AM or around 3:00 PM to skip the line.
- Understand the regional sauces. Little Pigs is famous for offering three styles at condiment stations: sweet and tangy South Carolina yellow mustard, spicy Eastern NC vinegar, and thick Western red tomato sauce. Try a little of each.
- Compare family carryout with individual plates. Buying one pound of meat and a quart of sides is almost always cheaper than buying three individual plates.
- Ask about cross-contact before ordering. If you have a severe allergy, inform the staff so they can help you navigate the buffet safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Little Pigs Barbecue have a menu with prices?
Yes, but because the locations in Columbia, Asheville, and Clemson are independently operated, there is no single corporate menu. You must check the specific website or in-store menu for the city you are visiting.
Do prices vary by location?
Yes, drastically. The Columbia, SC location focuses on an all-you-can-eat buffet model, while the Asheville, NC location focuses heavily on traditional sandwich baskets and platters.
What are the hours for the Little Pigs BBQ Buffet in Columbia, SC?
The Alpine Road location is typically open Wednesday and Thursday (11:00 AM – 8:30 PM), Friday and Saturday (11:00 AM – 9:00 PM), and Sunday (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM). They are usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Does the buffet price include drinks?
At the Columbia, SC location, the dine-in buffet price does include your choice of beverage, including their famous Southern sweet tea.
Where can I find calories for Little Pigs Barbecue?
Official calorie counts and nutrition facts are not published by the restaurants.
Are there gluten-free options at Little Pigs Barbecue?
Yes, the plain smoked pork, chicken, and brisket are naturally gluten-free. Vinegar-based sauces are generally safe as well, but diners should verify with staff and avoid fried items like hushpuppies or macaroni and cheese.
What are the best things to order?
The All-You-Can-Eat Buffet (Columbia), the Chopped Pork Sandwich, and the Hickory-Smoked Baby Back Ribs are the most universally praised items on the menu.
What are the cheapest items?
"The Piglet" (a junior-sized pork sandwich) is highly affordable, usually priced under $5. For groups, buying Pork by the Pound is the most cost-effective way to eat.
Does Little Pigs BBQ offer catering services?
Yes, all locations offer extensive bulk-order menus with meats by the pound, large pans of sides, and party packs designed for tailgates and events.
Is Little Pigs BBQ cash-only?
No, the major locations accept major credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
Conclusion
Little Pigs Barbecue remains a cornerstone of Southern dining, offering incredible value whether you are visiting the massive buffet in Columbia or picking up a sandwich basket in Asheville. For those who love exploring regional flavors and affordable bulk catering options, it is a must-visit destination.
Menus, prices, calories, and availability can change by location, time, delivery platform, and restaurant updates. Always confirm the latest information with the official restaurant website, app, or your local restaurant before ordering. Information verified for 2026 where available.
