People Drive From All Over Virginia Just To Try The Barbecue At This Legendary Smokehouse

I always thought people exaggerated when they talked about driving three hours just for a pulled pork sandwich. Then I tried Pierce’s Pitt Bar-B-Que. Now, I understand completely.

My first trip to their unassuming Williamsburg building felt like finding a culinary secret everyone already knew. The moment that tangy, mouthwatering smoke hit the air, I was hooked for life. It’s hard to describe the depth of flavor they achieve-it transcends standard backyard barbecue.

Trust me, clearing your calendar and filling up the gas tank for a trip to Pierce’s is the most important decision you’ll make this weekend.

A Family Legacy That Started Over 60 Years Ago

Pierce’s opened its doors back in 1961, when Eisenhower was still president and barbecue joints were becoming the heart of Southern communities. Walking into this place feels like stepping into a time capsule, with walls covered in vintage photographs that tell decades of stories.

The restaurant has stayed true to its roots while serving generation after generation of hungry customers. Counter-serve style keeps things moving quickly, even when the dining room fills up with tourists and locals alike.

Family-owned businesses have a special warmth that chains can never replicate. This smokehouse proves that sticking to tradition and quality creates something worth preserving for over six decades.

Pulled Pork That Makes The Drive Worthwhile

Many customers claim the pulled pork sandwich is what keeps them coming back year after year. Slow-smoked to tender perfection, the meat practically melts on your tongue without needing much help from sauce.

People consistently praise this signature dish, though some folks mention the portion sizes might seem modest for the price. The meat gets smoked low and slow, developing that authentic barbecue flavor that makes people drive miles out of their way.

Your drink comes in a souvenir cup you can take home as a memory of your visit. That little touch shows how Pierce’s thinks about creating experiences, not just serving meals to hungry customers.

Ribs That Fall Right Off The Bone

Ordering the full rack of ribs means committing to a serious barbecue experience that you might want to share with someone special. The meat achieves that perfect tenderness where it slides off the bone with barely any effort from your fork.

Customers rave about the sweet and spicy sauce that coats each rib without overpowering the smoky meat flavor underneath. Some diners mention the ribs lack strong smoke flavor on their own, relying heavily on the sauce for taste.

I remember sharing a rack with my spouse during our first visit, and we couldn’t stop talking about those beans on the side. The ribs disappeared faster than we expected, leaving us satisfied and already planning our return trip.

Baked Beans Worth Ordering Extra Portions

Sometimes the side dishes steal the show, and Pierce’s baked beans consistently earn top marks from customers who try them. Hot dog slices mixed into the beans add an unexpected twist that elevates this classic comfort food.

Beans are the highlight of their entire meal, and some people are ordering extra portions to take home. The rich, savory flavor pairs perfectly with smoked meats, cutting through the heaviness with just the right amount of sweetness.

Smart diners know to swap out fries for beans when building their dinner plates. That simple substitution can transform a good meal into a great one, especially when the beans taste this homemade and delicious.

Efficient Service Despite Constant Crowds

Packed dining rooms usually mean long waits and frustrated customers checking their watches every few minutes. Pierce’s somehow manages to keep lines moving quickly even when tourists flood in during peak vacation seasons.

The counter-serve format helps staff process orders efficiently without making anyone feel rushed through their meal. First-come, first-served seating works surprisingly well, with families of five reporting no trouble finding tables even during busy periods.

Clean lobbies and friendly greetings make waiting more pleasant when you do need to pause before ordering. Quick turnaround times mean you spend less time standing around and more time actually enjoying your barbecue feast with family or friends.

Burgers That Rival National Chain Quality

Not everyone in your group might crave barbecue, and that’s where having solid burger options saves the day. Customers compare Pierce’s hamburgers favorably to popular chains like Five Guys, which says plenty about the quality.

The burgers get the same attention to detail as the smoked meats, with proper seasoning and cooking techniques that deliver consistent results. Kids especially appreciate having familiar options like chicken tenders that taste better than typical restaurant fare.

During my last visit, I watched a teenager devour his cheeseburger while his parents tackled ribs and brisket. Everyone left happy, which rarely happens when families with different tastes try to agree on where to eat dinner together.

Desserts That Complete The Southern Experience

Saving room for dessert becomes absolutely necessary once you spot the banana pudding and freshly made carrot cake. Southern barbecue traditions always include sweet endings, and Pierce’s honors that custom with homemade treats.

The banana pudding earns consistent praise from customers who appreciate its creamy texture and authentic preparation style. Cornbread also gets mentioned frequently as surprisingly good, offering a slightly sweet companion to savory smoked meats.

Reasonable prices ranging from ten to twenty dollars per person mean you can afford to splurge on dessert without breaking your budget. That affordability combined with generous portions and quality ingredients explains why people consider this place worth the drive from anywhere in Virginia.

Signature Smokehouse Atmosphere

Step into Pierce’s Pitt Bar‑B‑Que and you’re welcomed by a rustic charm that tells a story of tradition. Wooden interiors adorned with vintage photographs set the stage for a barbecue experience steeped in history.

The welcoming atmosphere is as inviting as the smoky aroma that fills the air, creating an ambiance that feels like home. Long-time patrons often share tales of their first visit, reminiscing over decades of delicious meals.

This smokehouse isn’t merely about food; it’s about community and nostalgia, making every visit a memorable chapter in its storied legacy.

The Secret Sauce

Behind every legendary barbecue is a secret sauce, and Pierce’s is no exception. Crafted from a blend of spices and a touch of sweetness, this sauce is the heart of their culinary magic.

It’s not just a condiment; it’s a tradition passed down through generations, adding an irresistible flavor to every dish. Patrons often find themselves pondering the secret ingredients that make it so unique.

Whether slathered on ribs or drizzled over pulled pork, the sauce is an essential element that keeps visitors returning, eager for another taste of this smoky symphony.