Awesome atmosphere, great food, and excellent service. The best fast service bbq I've had.

When I say I'm a fan of Mission BBQ I actually mean SUPER FAN. So pitchers to write a negative review for a chain I really respect and love. This is not my first time at this store, but overall they have been weaker than others, so I kept pocketing reviews. That term "pocketing" is used by review writers that they will not write due to a negative experience, or want to visit again. This is probably my 4th, or 5th visit since they opened over 6 years ago. The business is tucked away in a parking lot off I64 and North Hampton beside Chick Fil A. So you must snake around the lot. Once you arrive there is plenty of parking. I was immediately taken back by the amount of trash in the lot, especially one particular pile that looked freshly dumped. The footprint of this Mission is smaller than others, for that matter smaller than Virginia Beach around 8 miles away. The size seems correct for the amount of business they receive. I entered the store on a weekday around 12:30 PM. I noticed trash on their patio too! My instincts were to turn around and leave. I immediately alerted the manager of the trash. He was busy preparing a major catering order. He did not thank me, he did not utter a word. He rolled his eyes. I specifically came to Mission with it being National Peach Cobbler Day. I absolutely adore Missions peach cobbler. I ordered a pulled port lunch with green beans that comes with corn bread. I added a peach cobbler. I was not asked if military, which they provide a discount. They ALWAYS ask, first time they have not. So ok, no discount today. I respect the mission of the business to support military and first responders. The staff clearly did not want to be there, no smile no enthusiasm when I exclaimed it's National Peach Cobbler Day and yours rocks! This was the first time I've ever encountered staff at Mission like that. They were not busy, so I expected almost immediate turn around. Even when busy the Mission staff are like Ninjas. It comes out in minutes. So I waited. Order up, no smoke by staff #2. Or is it #3 because the manager sure never smiled. I found a seat. The dining room was pretty empty and clean. Dug into my lunch and the pulled pork is a favorite and was great! The green beans dry, the cornbread not edible and worse of all the peach cobbler not as good, the breading was dry. I asked another staff if they had fresh cornbread. Another staff brought out two center pieces, she was friendly but no apologies. It was still dry and not edible. This staff never did another check unfortunately. If she had I would have reported my overall dissatisfaction with the meal. Upon walking out I could not help myself. I began picking up trash on the patio with a nearby can to easily dispose of. What seemed obvious is this. They had more than enough staff. Their resources were being strained because a major catering order that had all hands on deck. It seemed apparent this was the priority. I did notice the like of trash was picked up, but nearby trash let untouched, that's just lazy! Later in the evening I got very sick, of course it's unknown why with having a dinner meal as a possible culprit too. So 50/50 chance its Mission. I will never return to the Norfolk Mission again and fully believe corporate needs to step in to thoroughly look into items I've outlined. I will continue to support Mission BBQ. Again this hurts to write. 1.5 rounding up because I can bring myself to a 1 star. I feel like I've been ripped off from $18+ read more

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Very disappointed in this visit. The brisket was very dry. To the point it was like beef jerky. The chicken was moist but a lot more salty than I remembered. The coleslaw was dry also. So expect for my drink the whole meal was a flop. The group I was with ordered pulled pork. They said that it was overly salty. So nobody enjoyed their meal. This location I do not recommend. Now service was great. But the brisket was the worst I have ever had. Three stars is pushing it a little but because of service I giving a three read more

Three different employees had their hands in the meat of our sandwich and then gave our fries to another customer causing a longer than necessary wait. We were met with a seriously negative attitude when asking for a replacement sandwich. This place has gone downhill. Horrible customer service and not a sanitary way of handling customers' food as they were touching everything else in between handling the food directly. read more

Overall, Mission BBQ is a great choice if you're craving hearty BBQ in a relaxed atmosphere. The food is solid barbecue comfort with meats, tasty sides, and those amazing sauces. I loved the variety of sauces at the table; each one added its own kick, so you can really customize your meal. You really need the sauce, because the meat is not seasoned. The burger surprisingly was especially juicy and flavorful, cooked well and topped with plenty of melted cheese. Brisket and turkey were smoky, and the sides like mac & cheese, potato salad, and baked beans paired perfectly. Service was decent. read more

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I been to the mission bbq in Rochester, Ohio, Detroit, and now this one here in Norfolk Virginia and every mission bbq I been too is beyond great, great food, great staff however this one in Norfolk was the WORST one ever. The staff were so ignorant beside the older lady walking around helping everyone. Behind the counter were complete ignorant and I will not visit this location again. Not only to me but I came with a large party of 12 and other customers I overheard talking about how ignorant they were being. Very disappointing!! read more

Great service and delicious food! This was my first time trying this place. The staff was super nice and helpful. They helped me decide on what to get and I got the brisket (moist, for fattier pieces) it was delicious with the bbq sauce they have laid out on each table. My fave sauce were Smoky mountain and Tupelo honey heat!! Mixed together they were even better! My family got a sample platter and the chicken as well. It was 5 combos which came with a drink and side included adding up to a little less than $100! What a deal. I got to try their fries which are made fresh to order, highly recommend! The potato salad had a nice kick of spice to it. The platter comes with a slice of cornbread, it was good but a little too dry to my liking. I had to take a sip of my drink each bite! This is the perfect location because it is at the Norfolk outlets. My family and I came to eat after a day of shopping. read more

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The food is terrible with no flavor total waste of money the portions is so small. I thought it was a kids meal but the bill was definitely adults never again read more

Food in this location was good. The bbq pork is not oily. The beef brisket was delicious too. Definitely will be back again. read more

Food was tasty, light smoke and tender meat. Service was quick during lunchtime rush. Decor was turned of service members and first responders. Prices are a bit high but in line with many BBQ places. read more

I'm torn because I liked the overall "mission" and enjoyed the meal...so I'm really giving a 3.5, but it's BBQ and all about the food/flavor... I can't really say much about it except that the brisket was dry....probably because I ordered it lean. But I know lean brisket can be moist. I've had it. I've made it. But I found the one sauce that worked and made this thing pretty darn good! I tried all 6 on the table and the Memphis Belle is the clear winner on best BBQ sauce in the joint. The Mac n cheese side was ok. I did like that the offered beer and it was a local craft beer. So I enjoyed trying that. And it was pretty good too. I think if there was a hint of moisture in the meat I'd be at a 4 in a heartbeat. But there was none. All the moisture came from that sauce and to me, that's just ok BBQ. I'm sure this can improve. But, I would go back... hoping they have a more moist lean brisket by that time. read more

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Always nice experience, quality food, quick service and celebrates Patriotic Veterans and 1st responders Collards are the best, pulled chicken yummy. Singing National Anthem nice start to meal. read more

I used to love mission bbq while living in Baltimore. Since then, something has changed, and I'm not sure if it's my palette or the flavor (at least at this location). Don't get me wrong, it's not bad; it's just okay. It was nice to know that the meat sampler meal can include ribs, not just market meats. They had lemonade and sweet tea (I totally forgot), which meant I could enjoy an Arnie Palmer. The food came out quickly and at the proper temps. The staff was kind and helpful. They have ample indoor and outdoor seating. While it was a nice option in the area, it wasn't what I remembered. read more

Mission BBQ - 2 Meat Sampler, xx combo (2 sides & drink) - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Enjoy some smoked meat! Order at the counter, sit down, and savor the military tributes and rich smoke flavor. Collard greens are a must-try! read more

Mission BBQ - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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I'm a fan of Mission BBQ but never been to this location before. I came here for a work luncheon and we were serviced quickly despite it being lunch time on a Friday. I ordered the brisket with a side of Mac and cheese. You can get lean or meaty so I went with meaty. Brisket was very tender and juicy. And don't forget the cornbread! read more

Mission BBQ - Brisket with Mac & cheese - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Got a brisket salad with ranch. The ranch was fresh and delicious, and the brisket wasn't too fatty (which I like). It was tender too. BBQ sauces were great; lots of variety and great Memphis, Old Bay, and Nashville Hot. I guess I would have preferred lettuce other than iceberg, but it was still good. The decor is amazing and honors every DoD branch. They do National Anthem at noon. Friendly staff. Overall great place. read more

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I eat here at least once a week and always take it for granted, it's always fresh and within a minute of you ordering. It always great knowing you support a business that backs the troops and service jobs. Employees are always very friendly and caring. My favorite part of a restaurant is when I can get my own drink when I want and condiments. The selection of sauces is so much fun as well, I will continue going here weekly as I have never been disappointed. read more

The food was delicious I ordered the barbecue ribs with macaroni cheese and collard greens along with cornbread of course. The service was amazing and they were friendly as well. Keep up the excellent customer service! Thank you. read more

My first time here, I got the brisket and two sides and drink combo. I picked the Mac n cheese and collard greens, both sides were seasoned well and it also came with corn bread which was pretty decent. The brisket was a bit tough and fatty and salty too. I will come back time to try another dish. read more

Mission BBQ - Brisket combo - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Mid and saw a bug. Its looks clean bur dirty also fire my waitress shes blond and rude

I came to Lake Wright Mission BBQ. The place was awesome. Mrs. Beth came and talked to me and my friends and she had an unmatched level of hospitalit! Thank you Mrs. Beth your kindness didn't go unnoticed! read more

Highly Addictive You can see by the photos that the meats were cooked pretty good, I enjoyed how soft the meat just melts in your mouth which takes an extra amount of time to prepare. The breads soft which helped carry the juices and BBQ sauce. Mission BBQ packed their chicken into the sandwich, not like some establishments like Subway where they'll just fill the tray halfway and call it a regular sized serving (Granby St), Mission BBQ is better than that. What's great is that they have BBQ sauce readily available. You can even make your own Arnold Palmer. My only improvement is to have towelettes. read more

Mission BBQ - Chicken sandwich with Mac and cheese - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Online order went to Town Center by accident. Jess from Premium Outlets Way saved my day by recreating my order onsite in minutes. Jess went above and beyond and our dinner was EXCELLENT!!! read more

Food was very salty and over cooked. Not the experience I was expecting. However the service was exemplary.

Portions are large for sandwiches but about right when you consider the price of the sandwiches before any sides hovers around $12. Sides on the other hand are small in portion for the price you pay. Ambiance is very pro military and emergency service, along with a side of welcome-home Southern attitude. Food itself is delicious if you like BBQ - wife enjoys the pulled pork sandwiches while I rotate through the menu. While the meat is smoked I believe, it doesn't have an overly smoky flavor, and they have six BBQ sauces and a vinegar for those who want to top theirs off. read more

Been to several locations and never had any complaints , always a pleasure and the food is always excellent

Not pictured the ribs .. they were DELICIOUS, fall right off the bone didn't even need any bbq sauce they were so good. Both are that are pictured are the brisket sandwiches one shredded and whole both very good, the beans with brisket and Mac were equally good. The the service was quick and you ordered at the counter then pick a table and enjoy read more

Mission BBQ - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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Today's lunch was absolutely delicious. The Carolina Pulled-Pork sandwich with baked beans (w/brisket) , Abe cheesy potatoes.. everything was HOT and READY. We sat right outside on the pic Nic table. The manager did come check on us to see how we were which i appreciate. The weather fit the mood and I was satisfaction is just an understatement. I cannot wait to come back for the chicken :) Social distancing guidelines were being met, mask by the employees was worn, and the facility was nice and clean. P.s. TRY THE LEMONADE read more

Friendly people, good food and nice atmosphere, and was clean. The only thing i really wish is there were more zizes in buying meat? By pound. One serving feels.not enough, but 2 would be much. read more

ordered food to go because I live 5 minutes away... opened it soon as I got home and half my order was cold. this place is too expensive to be handing out cold food read more

Stopped by for takeout on a Sunday night. Line was short and my order came out fast. Portion size was pretty good and everything was delicious. Love their support for our military and will happily come back for more BBQ. read more

Mission BBQ - Condiments station...aka Dad's workshop - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

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First time here while visiting my stepson before he goes underway. I was raised on NC BBQ, so it's hard to find really good BBQ. OMG, this place did not disappoint. The food was amazing! Love the atmosphere, staff is top notch, and I love that they honor our Country everyday at Noon by playing the National Anthem! We will definitely be back!! read more

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I think the brisket is close to perfect. It's flavorful and falls apart easily, as it's super moist. The pulled pork is great and the potato salad has a lot of flavor as well. Additionally, the prices are better than most other BBQ places I've been to. read more

Mission BBQ - Very moist brisket, pulled pork, potato salad and corn bread - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia

Very cool bbq joint in Virginia Beach. Love the veteran atmosphere and dedication. Group of SEALS came in for a take away order and we bought their lunch. Now to the important part. I will be critical. I'm from Texas where we actually do bbq proper. Brisket - 3/5 Jalapeño Sausage - 5/5 Pulled pork - 3.5/5 Baked beans - 4/5 Slaw - 5/5 Cornbread - 4/5 Customer service was impeccable. I'll definitely be back on my next layover. read more

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I had a prime rib special that was really good, at a fraction of the price I would have paid at a "fancy" restaurant. Great service at a place that cares about "Service." read more

Great BBQ ! The service was great! The food was even better, and the variety of bbq sauces were very nice. Entire family loves the brisket and ribs. We love how much the establishment is covered in military - police and fire dept memorabilia and signage. Highly recommend eating at Mission BBQ! read more

This is a great bbq place that has just a little issue with advertising. I had the bbq sampler with ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. It was all tender and flavorful plus the sauces at the table are great. I don't recommend the mac and cheese but the coleslaw and bread pudding were delicious. They also have pretty fast service for a place where you walk in and order then sit down. The one biggest downside is that they pride themselves as being for the military and offering the best deals for those who serve. Well I'm in the military and when I asked if there is a discount for military they said only if you get the newsletter and only on a certain item every month. That's not the best deals because what I want will never be discounted. Anyway I love the place but don't expect an all inclusive veteran discount like they seem to advertise. read more

The best BBQ! I Ordered the pulled chicken sandwich and the spareribs. Both were tender juicy and flavorful The line was long but moving. I Ordered online for take out. Customer service was awesome in pick up area as well. read more

Normally when I visit Mission BBQ they are out of salmon. I decided to order it anyway. I walked in and the line was extremely long, so I placed an order online. The order was scheduled for pickup 20 mins after I placed the order. I went in to pickup my food and was told it was going to be 6 minutes after a 10 min. I cancelled my order and left. I wish the chain would do a better on having their menu items available. Update: the location still charged my card for my food even though I canceled my order after having to wait an hour. I left with no food and they charged me. read more

Used to be a good place to go but not sure if ruined by Covid. Used to come here a lot with family and eat and loved every bite. Ever since covid the food quality has severely dropped. The portions are tiny! Like a 16 dollar 3 meat sampler consists of 3 ice cream scooper sized dollops of dry and fat covered pulled chicken and pork. The sausage is almost always dry. The food quality is going down yet the prices still insanely high, if you plan on eating here for lunch or dinner be prepared to spend 50 bucks unless you plan to eat again a few hours later read more

Mission BBQ - Dry, bad meat - American Near Me - Norfolk, Virginia