Welcome to Stephenson's Bar-B-Q
About Stephenson's Bar-B-Q
Tucked away in the rustic charms of Willow Spring, Stephenson's Bar-B-Q is a tantalizing treasure for those who crave Southern culinary delights. The location, situated conveniently at 11964 NC-50, is as unpretentious as the scrumptious meals it offers. A simple sit-down eatery with a cozy and welcoming vibe sets the stage for what is sure to be an unforgettable dining experience.
The menu at Stephenson's is a celebration of Southern comfort food, with barbecued chicken that is simply to die for, and the much-talked-about Brunswick stew that warms the soul. It's the kind of place where dishes seem to have been prepared with an exceptional amount of care and love. The divine flavors of smoked meats hit just the right notes, perfectly complemented by the traditional sides that are equally delightful.
Particularly noteworthy is the way the barbecued chicken is cooked to perfection, with a smoky sweetness that lingers long after the last bite. The Brunswick stew, with its rich blend of meaty goodness and hearty vegetables, could easily become a comfort food staple for many. For those looking to explore beyond the regular fare, the menu offers a variety of other Southern specialties that make choosing just one thing a nearly impossible task.
Stephenson's reputation is well established in the area, with many local reviews praising not just the food but the warm service. Patrons frequently report feeling right at home, attributing that comfort to the staff who greet everyone with genuine Southern hospitality. It's refreshing to experience a place where the server's smiles are as satisfying as the servings themselves.
The understated charm of the interior allows the food to take center stage, creating an atmosphere that invites diners to sit back, relax, and truly savor every bite. It's easy to see why locals and visitors alike keep coming back for more. Stephenson's Bar-B-Q has made its mark not only with its amazing menu offerings but also with the entire dining experience that feels both familiar and special.
For those on the hunt for an authentic taste of the South, wrapped in an easy-going environment, a visit to Stephenson's Bar-B-Q is an absolute must. The flavors one encounters here have a knack for lingering in memory, well beyond the last forkful. It's a spot that promises to be a favorite haunt for anyone lucky enough to drop by.
The menu at Stephenson's is a celebration of Southern comfort food, with barbecued chicken that is simply to die for, and the much-talked-about Brunswick stew that warms the soul. It's the kind of place where dishes seem to have been prepared with an exceptional amount of care and love. The divine flavors of smoked meats hit just the right notes, perfectly complemented by the traditional sides that are equally delightful.
Particularly noteworthy is the way the barbecued chicken is cooked to perfection, with a smoky sweetness that lingers long after the last bite. The Brunswick stew, with its rich blend of meaty goodness and hearty vegetables, could easily become a comfort food staple for many. For those looking to explore beyond the regular fare, the menu offers a variety of other Southern specialties that make choosing just one thing a nearly impossible task.
Stephenson's reputation is well established in the area, with many local reviews praising not just the food but the warm service. Patrons frequently report feeling right at home, attributing that comfort to the staff who greet everyone with genuine Southern hospitality. It's refreshing to experience a place where the server's smiles are as satisfying as the servings themselves.
The understated charm of the interior allows the food to take center stage, creating an atmosphere that invites diners to sit back, relax, and truly savor every bite. It's easy to see why locals and visitors alike keep coming back for more. Stephenson's Bar-B-Q has made its mark not only with its amazing menu offerings but also with the entire dining experience that feels both familiar and special.
For those on the hunt for an authentic taste of the South, wrapped in an easy-going environment, a visit to Stephenson's Bar-B-Q is an absolute must. The flavors one encounters here have a knack for lingering in memory, well beyond the last forkful. It's a spot that promises to be a favorite haunt for anyone lucky enough to drop by.
Features & Amenities
Service Options
- Drive-through
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Highlights
- Great tea selection
- Serves local specialty
Popular For
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining Options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Quiet
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 — Kierstyn Myers
If you're looking for classic Southern comfort food in a laid-back, no-frills setting, Stephenson's BBQ hits the mark. I recently stopped in and tried the combo chicken and BBQ plate with French fries and green beans, and rounded it out with a side of banana pudding. The BBQ itself was tender and had good texture, but I found it could’ve used a bit more flavo, adding the table sauce probably would have made a noticeable difference but I didn't. The chicken, on the other hand, was pretty good: crispy skin, just the way it should be. Sides were solid; housemade French fries were hot and satisfying, and the green beans were nothing special but I love some green beans. As for the banana pudding, it was just okay. I never thought I’d say this, but there were too many Nilla wafers in the mix. A little more pudding would’ve balanced it out better and softened those crunchy cookies. Service was warm and welcoming, and the atmosphere is what you'd expect from a true Southern BBQ join, unpretentious and cozy. Stephenson's isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel; they’re just serving up straight-ahead BBQ with Southern charm. I’d come back, especially for that chicken, and next time, I’ll reach for the sauce a little sooner.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Jason Myers
Wow. Stopped in for lunch today and certainly was not disappointed. Everything on my plate was fantastic. The chicken, the okra, the potatoes, the hushpuppies, all delicious. But man—that BBQ is the STAR. So so good. Nothing like pit-cooked whole hog eastern style Q, and Stephenson’s is some of the best I’ve had. Will definitely be back!!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Jennifer Cardena
The best ENC bbq. You have to get a bbq sandwich, brunswick stew, boiled potatoes, liver, fried okra, collards, gizzards, and obviously hushpuppies. I've gone to this location for years and have always had welcoming service. Highly recommend and takeout is so easy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Matthew Fisher
Y’all this seriously is the best place for BBQ Chicken - get you some extra sauce cause it’s excellent! The fries are also my favorite - always fresh and delicious! Other sides veggies are also great! Wednesday special garden peas are always excellent! Thursday special chicken pastry and yams always sell out quick they are so good! Don’t forget the sweet tea with that great “snow like” crushed ice! Me and family have been fans of Stephenson’s BBQ for 30+ years - they’ve been consistently making this good country food forever y’all!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Johnny Timbertree
The Q was moist and had a nice level of seasoning. Service was lightning fast. The hush puppies were spot on! Checkered table clothes gave the decor a nice feel.
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Contact
Phone: (919) 894-4530
Address: 11964 NC-50, Willow Spring, NC 27592
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Opening Hours
- Monday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Tuesday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Wednesday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Friday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–8 PM
- Sunday: Closed