The best BBQ in America can be found in South Carolina and if you’ve never tried our signature mustard and vinegar-based BBQ then there are plenty of places to find it. However; this is not one of them. But at this country store and gas station that’s more than 80 years old and located seemingly in the middle of nowhere, you’ll discover the best vinegar (only) based BBQ in the Palmetto State! Believe us, you won’t want to miss out on this gas station BBQ in South Carolina.

Cooper's Country Store, located in Salters, got its start back in 1937 — the same year Highway 521 opened.
Google Maps/Adam Parish
It opened as an Esso gas station in a two-story building with the owner and his family living upstairs.
Google Maps/Joe Taylor
In 1973, the owner died and the store was purchased by George Cooper, who had married one of the daughters of the original owner. It's still in the Cooper Family and, oh boy... can Mr. Cooper cook!
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
The pit-cooked BBQ found at Cooper's is a little different than you'll find elsewhere in this part of the state: it's made without the mustard sauce and only has vinegar and spices.
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
Each day, the store is geared up with freshly cooked (for more than 12 hours, in fact) vinegar-based BBQ loaded with some (mild) spices and...
YouTube/SouthernFoodways

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each day the locals and visitors line up for their taste of the goodness.
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
A group of picnic tables awaits outside so they can enjoy it in the country shade.
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
Aside from the mouthwatering BBQ, Cooper's Country Store (an Exxon gas station), also has a variety of essentials for the home. You'll find hardware, house decor, and more.
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
Generations of locals have relied (and still do) upon this old timey store for the staples of life and for just catching up with others in the community — and Mr. Cooper's BBQ is one of the common threads that binds them together.
Google Maps/Jeff Stilwell
Is your mouth watering yet?
YouTube/SouthernFoodways
Cooper's Country Store is located at 6945 US Hwy. 521, Salters, SC 29590, between Columbia and Pawleys Island. It's open six days a week, Monday through Saturday, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Learn more on their Facebook page.

Have you ever eaten at Cooper’s Country Store? What are your favorite places to get BBQ in South Carolina? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below and be sure to let us know of any other places to get gas station BBQ in South Carolina!

If you’re hungry for more soul-satisfying comfort food, visit these 7 delicious hole in the wall restaurants in South Carolina.

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gas station BBQ in South Carolina

Elisa Regulski | February 05, 2020

What are the best small town BBQ restaurants in South Carolina?

Hog Heaven, located on Pawleys Island, is an amazing place to eat BBQ in South Carolina. If you have a mighty BBQ craving, this is the place to go. They have a giant buffet that’s full of delicious and tender smoked meats. Their country cooking will make you feel right at home.

Choo Choo BBQ is located in one of the most charming small towns in South Carolina: Bluffton. Of course, their pulled pork and ribs are magnificent, but it’s nothing in comparison to their creamy mac and cheese. If you want to learn more about where to get the best BBQ in South Carolina, read our article here.

What kind of BBQ is South Carolina known for?

South Carolina BBQ is all about the pork. Whether it’s pulled, shredded, or chopped, it’s always full of flavor. Usually, the meat is covered in a delicious spice rub before smoking. This state is also known for its unique barbecue sauce. It’s typically vinegar-based, but sometimes eateries will add in a splash of mustard. South Carolina BBQ is one of the oldest styles around. There’s a reason why everyone can’t get enough of it.

Are there any other delicious gas station restaurants in South Carolina?

Xaio Bao Biscuit is a fantastic gas station restaurant that’s full of authentic Asian-inspired eats. The interior is chic and trendy, and it’s a great place for a date night. They even serve spectacular cocktails! It’s probably not what you would expect from an old-timey gas station. Take a trip to Charleston and try it for yourself.

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6945 US-521, Salters, SC 29590, USA