Found this place near our rental house on Yelp. Five stars all the way round from the delicious ribs, fried catfish and blueberry cobbler to the lovely, happy service on order and pick up. Between the good Yelp reviews, pictures of the food, the fact that we called my mother-in-law who passed away a couple years ago, Mema, I had to check it out and I was really glad I did. This is one of those places found while traveling that I wish was near our house. read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Ribs and catfish combo with some blueberry cobbler for dessert. All of it was delicious! - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Owners are so kind, food is delicious and it's a very cute farmhouse feel in the restaurant. Thank you for the great food! And thank you Davie for reminding us to go back! read more

We literally haven't even left the restaurant yet, and I just have to rave about how delicious this was! We ordered the fried mushrooms appetizer which was unique because it was sliced mushrooms. The batter was delicious with the mushrooms being lightly fried, and they stayed crispy the entire time which is awesome for fried food. We ordered a large fried shrimp platter, and these are probably the best fried shrimp I've ever had! My fiance really liked the coleslaw as well and the fries. We also ordered the small pulled pork platter with fried okra. The pulled pork was so tasty that it didn't even need the barbecue sauce that came with it! The fried okra was crispy and delicious. We were thought we were finished and full until one of the owners came by the table to ask us about dessert. This blueberry cobbler was the best, and it came with cinnamon ice cream too. There also was an amazing chocolate layered cake- the chocolate ganache on top was perfectly balanced with the cake. The interior of the restaurant is welcoming with lots of different sized tables and fun lights (the mini whisky barrel lights are so cute!). You can tell how much love and prayer the owners put into every touch. Even the bathroom is so pretty with a sugar scrub at the sink and little mirrors on the front of the bathroom stalls. Make sure you read their core values sign as you enter the bathroom- beautiful, heartfelt, and tells you everything you need to know. Everyone working is so friendly and welcoming- you feel like you're at home! I can't wait to come back to try the Mac n cheese and brisket! read more

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Staff was so welcoming & kind! The food was all so amazing !! I can't say anything negative it was all around a perfect meal for my family !!! thx you read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - birthday ribs! - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

The food and the service were amazing. The brisket was moist and tender, the mac and cheese was amazing, the green beans were so delicious, the potato salad was so good, the baked beans were to die for, the corn bread was out of this world, the ribs were tender and delicious, the catfish was great, and the strawberry shortcake along with the banana pudding were so delicious. The owners were so nice and personable. I felt like I was talking to family. They made us feel so welcomed and even gave us the history of the restaurant. The ambience and atmosphere were so pleasant. I had a great dining experience. I will definitely be back again and again and again. read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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Another restaurant I haven't been to in a while. The food was okay. Nothing special unfortunately. They were out of the 1/2 chicken at 5pm? Service was fine but a little confusing as you order and pick up desert from a separate location from the counter. We went shortly after they opened, and the dining room was still set up as the previous establishment. I may reconsider this place in the future. read more

it was a DELIGHT! It's so refreshing to see a black owned business! We loved every part of our meal and it wasn't too crowded which made it very nice to sit and relax for a bit while eating delicious. splendid. PERFECT southern cuisine. read more

The service is top notch, very kind and funny, the food was to kill and die for, everything was perfection. read more

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In town from Atlanta and was craving some bbq food and found MeMa's and it didn't disappoint! Food was amazing! Service was amazing! Family establishment and you could tell by the greeting to the goodbye. She even offered a sample of the cakes of the day. I ordered the brisket and i have never had brisket like this before. Bark was perfect and texture was perfect. It has this sauce on it, almost like beef stew gravy and it was amazing! Chicken was good, the ribs were amazing, hush puppies were perfect, and the sides were amazing. Usually bbq restaurants sides are sub par but here the macaroni and cheese was amazing. I could go on but over the place was amazing and I have a to go spot when I am in Wilmington! I love that they welcomed in and the vibe of the restaurant made it feel homy. read more

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Food was delicious. The staff is so friendly and kind. My only regret- not getting the banana pudding because everyone around me was talking about how damn good it is. read more

Always delicious food and sweet, friendly service! love the cute atmosphere as well! The brisket is my favorite!

Had such a great experience here. The fried mushrooms were absolutely delicious, perfectly crispy, and the pork ribs were awesome... tender, flavorful, and clearly done right! You have to try the banana pudding too. So good. On top of that, the service was excellent. Everyone was super friendly and welcoming, which just made the whole experience even better. Can't wait to come back! read more

Great food and great staff! Owner came out to talk to us and made us feel so welcome! Will definitely be back for the food and the atmosphere! Thank you! read more

Amazing BBQ!! The brisket is mouth watering! They are so nice here, it's like really going to MeMa's for a Carolina Summer BBQ! read more

10 out of 10! If you're visiting the area or you just like barbecue, this place is a must! The food was amazing! We tried the pork chops, pulled pork, baked beans, hush puppies, potato salad, fries... that doesn't even put a dent in their menu. As an annual visitor will definitely be back! ... and for the locals they do catering! Support a black owned and veteran owned business! read more

We finally made it to MeMa's and it did not disappoint! In fact, we regret not going sooner. First and foremost- You won't find customer service like this anywhere else. They are incredibly welcoming the second you walk in. You can tell they love what they do. Super attentive and personable service- it was the icing on the cake for us. The food was delicious- which wasn't surprising given how much people rave about the this place! 10/10 for taste, quality, and portion sizes. We just about ordered one of everything. I personally had the fried flounder which was light, flavorful and cooked to perfection. I also had the lavender lemonade.... Took me straight to heaven. We were stuffed and had plenty of leftovers It was my dad's birthday so we ordered a slice of their chocolate cake to-go. If you love chocolate... this is a must!!! There was more than enough for the four of us to share without fighting each other for more. Their attention to detail makes it a really cool place to dine! Super spacious, clean, and full of personality (down to earth country vibe.) Plenty of indoor and out door seating- they even have a more "private" seating area where I imagine you could have a larger group sit together. One feature I'd like to mention is the bar area. It's hard to describe, but it's not a formal bar like you'd expect. They have a mixologist who specializes in fun, creative mocktails. Impressive presentation too! I don't drink so I appreciate a place who offers fun and thoughtful drink options! 10/10 for great service, food, and overall experience! We can't wait to go back! read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Love all the decor and thoughtful touches. The attention to detail is amazing - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

From a BBQ snob... First of all, these people make you feel at home. Mr James and his wife were exceptional in welcoming our family during our visit to see our daughter at UNCW. Now to the food. I ordered the BBQ plate. The ribs and brisket were good but the pulled port was over the top. Honestly the best pulled pork I've ever had. Great smoked flavor and the rub spices were perfect. My daughter had the fried shrimp plate. She allowed me to have one. They were perfectly fried large shrimp that were incredibly fresh. I will definitely be back on our next visit. These folks also support many local charity events and give back to the community in numerous ways. Truly good caring people that deserve your support. What more do you need to know? Get over there and enjoy some great food and hospitality. read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - BBQ plate with pork ribs, brisket and pulled pork hidden underneath the ribs. - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

The food was delicious, the owners ridiculously friendly, and the whole restaurant immaculate. My husband wants me to be sure to mention how clean the bathrooms were, and my daughter loved the sugar scrub at the sink. Mema would be proud! read more

This place is absolutely AMAZING!! 100% recommend :) Overall 10/10 food was amazing customer service was on point and everybody was really friendly and welcoming. read more

Our meal had no flavor yesterday We had a brisket and ribs and the ribs had so much cartrlidge and fat The cornbread had no flavor too Service was great and the ambiance was cute and clean! We wish we loved the food:( read more

Stopped for a bite to eat on my way home to Durham, NC and I am so glad that I did. Ordered fried flounder (which was complemented by hush puppies), fried okra and a fried mini corn on the cob side. Everything was seasoned to perfection and absolutely delicious. And the customer service was fantastic, along with the music playing int he background. I am already thinking about my next visit and yes, I will bring friends! read more

Mema's food was absolutely amazing, especially the sizzling mac and cheese skillet! The atmosphere was clean, welcoming, and very nicely decorated. You can tell they really care about the experience from start to finish. Definitely coming back! read more

The food was incredible, pork tender, green beans were incredible, and our server Myra was so nice. The place is nicely decorated, but the food was the best part. read more

I used MeMa's for a catering order and it was a two thumbs up great experience. HIGHLY recommended. The level of customer service we received was out of this world and the entire experience was turn key. All of our guest RAVED over the food and there was barely anything left when the party was over. We got Pulled pork and Smoked chicken as our entrees and both were 10/10. The chicken rub and smoke flavor was great. The pulled pork had a great ratio of vinegar and spices that melted in your mouth. I can go on about the sides, but I need to mention the Banana Pudding. THE BEST. This is a must order when you go. Got a new customer today and judging by the fan fare, a few more! read more

*Note there is another location in Burgaw, this is the one in Wilmington (near Porter's Neck) on Market Street next to Harris Teeter. In the old J. Michael Philly Deli. We had a great first time experience. We got there shortly after they opened so wasn't too busy, but it quickly filled up as noon approached. The counter person was pleasant, friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. There were four in our party we tried the following: Fried Green Beans appetizer Smoked chicken entree (white and dark) Flounder Salad with smoked chicken Fried Pork Chop Sides were: Okra Fries Baked beans 6 cheese Mac and cheese Cole slaw Potato Salad Everything was amazing. All items came out as ordered and cooked to perfection. The smoked chicken was excellent. The potato salad had a good flavor and more on the creamy side if you have a preference. Staff checked on us several times and they cleaned up our table when we were done as we sat for a bit longer. There were plenty of large tables for bigger parties and a private room that can be closed off. The restaurant was clean and bright. There was plenty of parking. There were several items we didn't get to try and we'll definitely be back so we can try them next time. read more

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Amazing! Ribs, chicken, green beans, baked beans, hush puppies, their sauce... highly recommend this place! read more

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What can I say besides RUN DON'T WALK TO ME MA'S!!!! Everything is delicious. After a long day of union work, I looked on yelp and stumbled across MeMa's. The staff Ultra pleasant! They answered our questions, and the cooks assured us "we good!" And it was nothing but the truth! We were treated to a slice of sweet potato cheesecake for dessert by MeMa's daughter in law!!! Everything was clean. The bathroom were amazingly clean!!! Down to the sugar scrub for your hands at the sink. MeMa thank you!!! You got 4 happy and full postal workers from Charlotte!!!! Come a check MeMa out! You will not be disappointed!!!! read more

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Porters Neck was definitely missing a place like this. If you're looking for some killer bbq, sides, and some of the best the cornbread you've ever had, go check this place out. A large number of options and hard to find something that isn't good here! Definitely give MeMa's a try. It's in the old J Michael's spot beside Two Guys, Harris Teeter, and PTs. read more

When it's raining on a Sunday and you really want BBQ, what to do? We chose to head to MeMa's. Super friendly staff. We grabbed a pound of pulled pork and a jar of sauce to go. From Texas to Bama to Tenn to NC--we love our BBQ. Y'all the pulled pork--absolutely divine! Smoky, tender, full of flavor and that's before we added the house sauce. Unreal meal made super easy. We stuffed the BBQ into potatoes we baked at home, devoured them and have already planned our next visit to MeMa's in Porter's Neck. Yum! Yes, it went fast. read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Loved this place! I had heard about it a couple of times and decided to try it out for myself. We got some amazing cornbread, I had a chicken sandwich which was so yummy, and the potato salad was *chef's kiss*. The lady helping us at the front was a gem. Helpful, so sweet, and talked us into a delicious coconut cake for dessert. I'm definitely going again soon! read more

Everything was delicious! The cornbread is a must! Mac and cheese was awesome and coleslaw! Smokes chicken and pulled pork! Best of all were all the sweet people who worked there! So welcoming and friendly! 10/10 everyone go check them out!! read more

Walking into Mema's Chick'n Ribs feels less like entering a restaurant and more like coming home. The warm welcome, the incredible aromas drifting from the kitchen, and the cozy, family-style atmosphere instantly set the tone -- this isn't just a meal; it's a Southern experience. The food? Down-home perfection. Every bite is a nod to tradition -- think Sunday night dinner after church, or a family holiday gathering where love is the secret ingredient. The chicken is smoked and juicy, the ribs fall-off-the-bone tender, and the sides? The brisket speaks for itself. Comfort classics done right. You can tell everything is made with care and pride. What truly sets Mema's apart, though, is the people. The staff is absolutely amazing -- genuine, kind, and attentive. They don't just serve food; they serve warmth, laughter, and connection. I came in hungry and tired, and left full, happy, and uplifted -- like I'd just spent an evening with family I didn't know I had. If you're ever in Wilmington and need a pick-me-up, some soul food, or just a reminder of how good it feels to be cared for -- Mema's Chick'n Ribs is the place to go. read more

Great food in a welcoming atmosphere. I love their southern style meals where even the side dishes shine.

MeMa's is such a beautiful restaurant. Every inch of the space is pristine clean from the front door, outside, to the gift shop, kitchen and down around the corridor to the bathroom. The food is made with love. The staff are so welcoming and accommodating. Definitely a go to and well worth the price. read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Big Pork Ribs Plate Green Beans 2 Hotdogs Kids Chicken Strips w/ fries Tea - Sweet Fresh Fried Mushrooms - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Cute & very clean. Delicious NC BBQ. Smoked white chicken absolutely fabulous, moist, smoky, crispy! Brisket was different than what I'm used to & much better! Loved it! Great tasty BBQ sauce that wasn't sweet! Worth a stop! read more

Omg! I haven't had food this good in a hot minute! It was so good I almost cried. Going to eat here every time I'm in town! read more

MeMa’s Chicken And Ribs - Pulled Pork Sliders (2) - Barbeque Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Our dining experience at MeMa's was exceptional. I had smoked chicken, potato salad, and green beans. My husband enjoyed the ribs and brisket, green beans, & baked beans. The meats were smoked to perfection, tasty, tender, & moist. The green beans were like my mother's and the potato salad had just the right amount of onions and pickles--one of the best I've eaten. And for dessert we had donuts that just about melted in your mouth--homemade with a sweet glaze. Can't wait to return! read more

The pulled pork was just delicious. Moist, flavored just perfect and the sauce excellent. Very friendly staff, food delivered to the table quickly and 2 folks arrived to ask if everything was good. The interior was clean and welcoming with great blues music in the background. Recommend highly! read more

Oh my goodness! How did I not know about this amazing restaurant?? The food and service were amazing. The ambiance was so welcoming and the owner Myra McDuffie is an earth angel. It is a must to check it out. And don't forget your dessert! read more

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Food was delicious.. super fast service! Everyone was so nice the ladies at the front counter were wonderful, on the way out - what I presume was the owners checked in making sure I enjoyed the meal. So friendly and kind the food also being amazing was a bonus! read more