It's time they update their website and clear out some of the old photos. I specifically came because they had a lot of pictures of spare ribs and beef ribs. They no longer serve either one. Perhaps after COVID and the very high prices of beef these days but the menu is really pared down. But here are the highlights. The baby back ribs are meaty and moist with a little too much dry rub (for my tastes). There is a wide selection of sauces, but they are not typical, dinner, and lighter than most BBQ and smokehouse restaurants. The flavors were not canned; they were very authentic and clearly original. The owner seems to work hard to be authentically original. The other thing we tried was the burger because the waitress nearly drooled telling us about it, and several people asked us if we were going to try the burger. The burger was not some skinny smash burger or a pretender frozen patty. This was a handmade, very thick, and juicy burger with tons of flavor. My wife ordered the burger, and it was huge (see my pictures). I might try the burger the next time. We also had Mac and cheese (good, not amazing), collard greens (amazing, not just good), and my wife had fries that reminded us of Five Guys. There was a ton of fries, and they were tasty. We both ate them because there was enough to share. I ordered the full rack of baby back ribs. Some BBQ places seem to be cheating somehow; a full rack has gotten both smaller and less meaty, and I have no problem finishing a full rack at most places, but Tony's was a real full rack! This rack was so meaty that I ended up taking half home, and it made a full meal the next night too! They talk up their banana pudding, but they were out. We split a cheesecake, and it was very good too. We had the plain one. A good cheesecake doesn't need to be drenched in pie filling if it's good. The staff was friendly and several people checked on us, but they were not pushy or intrusive. We did not try the brisket or pulled pork. I really wish they had beef ribs, even if it was only once a week, and the same for spare ribs, perhaps as a special. The prices were higher than we expected, more than we have paid for similar meals at other BBQ restaurants, but it seems all food, and especially meat, costs much more today. read more

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Food was alright but a little dry, the sauces on the table were good but some were unlabeled so it was a guessing game of what you were using. Lots of indoor seating, and they are accommodating for large groups. Our server was nice but neglected to tell us about the pre applied service charge so we unknowingly tipped 50 % for mediocre food. read more

Go, and get the ribs. I've never had meatier ribs, and they were moist and flavorful. We also tried the fried pickles, and they were tasty too. Lightly breaded, hot, and crunchy. Our waitress was quick and attentive without hovering, providing us with excellent service. Smoky Tony's isn't a fancy place, but you can't get better ribs read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Best ribs I've had. Super moist and meaty. - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

When you first walk in this place you are greeted by some of the nicest people The spot is family owned and operated and it is so delicious and the food is so fresh. You can definitely get away with splitting a lot of their serving sizes I love the loaded, mac and cheese and all of their ribs are delicious. Best fried pickles in the area Awesome prices and you will walk out of this place waddling from how much food you eat Everything is delicious. Fall off the bone and it is always fresh and clean in here. Great for groups and for a cheap date night I will be back Thank you for a great experience read more

We stopped by on our way out from the beach. Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious. We enjoyed every bite. We appreciated the clean environment as well. It was nice to see Tony actually walking around the restaurant and engaging with the customers. Such a great little place and will definitely stop by if we're around the way again!! read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

Dude, we love Smoky Tony's! The food is always great and well-priced, the service is warm and friendly, and don't even get me started on the cheesecakes! Worth every single calorie. Tuesdays and Thursdays are fun; they do trivia and music bingo. Always a good time! read more

Great place to get your 'cue fix in southeastern North Carolina - spectacular brisket featured a near-perfect smoke ring and succulent meat. The ribs were spot on, with a distinctive "pull" off the bone. I would call this competition-style barbecue any day! The collards were indeed "kickin" and had a spectacular smoky taste while the slaw was creamy, with a hint of tang. The best part is all the different sauces they offer at the table - from classic ENC vinegar to a sweet whisky and an awesome Alabama-style white sauce. Don't let the interior fool ya, these folks are throwing down some fantastic food - service was solid and attentive, but not hovering. read more

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Phenomenal fresh food and friendly service at Smoky Tony's. Will be back to enjoy all of the flavor soon! Tony introduced himself to our table & brought us a sample of the fresh smoked sausage. Yum! read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Quarter rack of ribs. I topped with the smoky heat bbq. Perfectly cooked to fall off the bone. - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

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Everyone was so nice!!! The food was great and the service was on point. The burnt ends and ribs are a must order. The pulled pork was shocking how good it was. Ask for the tortilla soup and if they don't have it ask them why not. It was off the chart. So glad we made it. read more

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Passed this place a bunch heading into the beach and finally decided to stop in. I did not regret it. Was greeted immediately and it took no time for Tony to come out and talk with us about the food. Our waitress was warm and personable and we got our food very fast. Everything so so delicious. We can't wait to go back! We're already planning on bring family with us next time. Thank you! read more

Food and hospitality were great. Great selection of sauces and menu. Overall my family and I had a great experience.

Our first and only visit: we waited and waited for someone to seat us. No one came. The restaurant wasn't busy, so that couldn't have been the issue. We finally left. The food may be delicious but we'll never go back. First impressions are important. read more

We ate the food before I could get a picture - 10/10! The chicken tenders were amazing and the ribs were huge and tender. The star of the show was the banana pudding - it tasted so fresh! Huge shoutout to the lovely girl working the counter tonight who walked me through the menu as a first timer, and to the chefs who made my family's food when it was so close to closing. Incredible service and food - we'll be regulars now read more

Been craving some nice BBQ and tender meats and without a doubt they exceeded my expectations. One of the most interactive and friendly service by the staff and especially tony he was phenomenal. Place was a great nice cozy vibe that matched perfect with the food. No doubt I will definitely be coming back!! read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

I was at Smoky Tony's last night for trivia. Which was an absolute blast! Our waitress was definitely a 5 star server. She was attentive enough without being intrusive during the trivia event. Luckily my group was able to grab a booth which was so much more comfortable than the chairs. The booths had padding which is helpful when you're sitting for more than an hour. I'm sorry to say the food was subpar. I opted to get a bottled beer and nibble on the tables order of hush puppies. They were over cooked and very dry and tasteless. Then when dessert was offered, I chose the cheesecake. It was almost $12 and not house made (it was in separate clam packing). I will return, but may only go for trivia and not for the food. Sorry. read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

Smokey Tony's has quickly become a family favorite, and while I love everything on the menu, the banana pudding has my heart! Baby, you can really hurt yourself (in the best way) eating that stuff. It's homemade and if you've tried as many banana puddings as I have, you KNOW it's the real deal. She does an amazing job! The pulled pork with a side of mac is my go-to, but whatever you do, don't leave without trying the banana pudding! read more

Great food, great service! The owner (Tony) came out and greeted us, he was terrific! Highly recommend! read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Tony - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

The Kicken' Collards took my breath away. Taste them first -- you won't need to ask for pepper vinegar! They are over the top awesome, flavored with vinegar and pepper. My main course of the red beans and rice with eastern Carolina pulled pork bowl went into a take out container because I ate the whole side of collards before tasting the rest of the order. I even took an order home for later! read more

Delicious!!! My favorite meal I've had in a long time! We truly enjoyed our delicious dinner at Tony's. We ordered the mixed meat tacos, brisket, fries, coleslaw and Mac n cheese. Wow!! Tony came by to introduce himself and he asked us what appetizers he would recommend. A few minutes later a basket of hush puppies arrived. They were awesome! Came out piping hot and full of flavor. Then the meal. Also so delicious and full of flavor! The brisket was tender and juicy! A variety of sauces to choose from to complement the goodness. The mixed meat tacos were on special for $1.50 each. Such a deal! 3 different meats with spices and depth! We loved it all! All of the amazing food was sooo good. Looking forward to a future visit when we're in town again. Thanks for a delicious meal and kind people going the extra mile with service. read more

Heading down to Holly Ridge or Surf City - stop over at Smoky Tony's BBQ. Hidden gem of great food and small hometown restaurant with a great staff of cooks and servers. read more

BBQ ribs and burger were so delicious! Loved the fries! Ok, we loved everything! Servers were knowledgeable and took great care of us. We look forward to coming back. read more

This was our first outing in the area, and all we can say is amazing! From the first steps in the door being greeted warmly, to the ambience, then the food itself, Outstanding! Meeting Mr Tony was a pleasure and we cannot wait to enjoy this wonderful place again. Ps;) grab a slice of cheesecake(homemade) on your way out the door, great way to finish the evening! read more

I love this place. Their brisket is so delicious. Their brisket tacos are mouth watering. My favorite is the queso pork fries. They use to do breakfast burritos in the morning but not sure they do anymore. But if they do you must go. read more

We arrived with fifteen minutes to closing. After spending the afternoon at the emergency room, I had to go closer to see their hours. Realizing the time, I approached to see if they had anything we could pick up or grab a menu. With no idea of our day, one of the ladies said, "You can come on in and eat. Come sit down!" As I headed to the door to get my husband, she joked and said I didn't have to leave him in the car, hw was welcome too! They were so lovely and welcoming. We met Tony in person, and he let us sample their daily special, brisket sloppy joes. He said we're sold out of ribs and half chickens. We met his wife through her delicious cheesecake...later...at home. The food was great, and my husband wanted to return for their grilled chicken sandwich the next day. My wings were delicious and there are a variety of sauces on the table to try. Everyone felt like a happy family. The servers were great and fun. It was a wonderful experience and we will be back! read more

Ribs were great. Mac 'n Cheese with beef brisket was huge portion! Definitely a share item or multi- meals. Cheesecake was also good, but a bit pricey @$12 slice read more

Yummy bbq. Great sauce selection. Goof brisket. Super smoky. Awesome service. Definitely worth a stop. read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Spicy chicken sammy - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

Stopped at this BBQ place in a trip to Myrtle Beach....such delicious authentic bbq including the brisket and pulled pork. Hush puppies were outstanding. Fresh brewed iced tea. Took banana pudding to go and it was amazing also. Highly recommend Service was top notch read more

Great tasting food for their reasonable prices. I usually have half a yard bird with two sides for around $20 and it really fills me up to the point where I want to nap after. Highly recommend this restaurant for good chicken and barbecue! read more

Came here for dinner on a Sunday! Was easily able to get a packing spot and a table for 3. The waitress was very kind and was able to answer any questions for us. The cook heard us talking about ordering many Mac and cheeses and he came out to tell us he only had enough for two. So we ended up splitting some appetizers and two Mac and cheeses. We had plenty of food and even enough for three extra meals for later! The inside is cute and homey. The booth we sat in was very spacious. The meat was tender with good flavor. We enjoyed the fries, Mac and cheese, and hush puppies. In the end, split 3 ways we each paid around $19. Overall a good deal and we had an enjoyable meal! read more

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Must say you all are lucky to have Tony's BBQ, the brisket and ribs were the best I have ad In a long time, I'm from the north and would die for BBQ like they serve. Taking a chicken home I'm sure it goi g to be awesome, and the staff is A+ the kindest people ever. It's a must have if you in the area read more

I don't usually do reviews but this is worth it. This isn't a chain but Tony Bowman's (owner and smoker) restaurant. Everything made in house. It's hard to find moderately priced excellent owner local restaurant in the age of chains. We were staying on Topsail Beach and were land side for my grandkids and that's how we found it. I travel on business all over the US so I eat out a lot. Well worth it. read more

Ordered pick up & was pleased! Half chicken was enough for 4 people & had good flavor. Side of green beans was a bit small. read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - menu - july 2025 - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

The food was okay, but the service left a lot to be desired. My husband and I went for dinner on trivia night, and it took 30 minutes before anyone even took our drink order. We waited another 40 minutes for our food, only to be told the ticket never printed in the kitchen. It's BBQ--most of it should be ready to serve! The staff didn't seem particularly concerned, which only made the experience more frustrating. Unfortunately, we won't be returning. It just wasn't worth the wait. read more

Stopped in for a quick snack. Got some ribs, brisket, a couple sides and some dessert to-go. DELISH! Great service too!

Food was delicious and the service was great. I liked all the sauce options, especially the Carolina gold read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Brisket, pulled pork sandwich, coleslaw, and collard greens. - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

Food and service is outstanding but watch out for their add on service fee for large groups. This fee is not defined as a tip but in addition to the tip. Otherwise my score would have been higher. read more

I don't like to gate keep... Never eaten here, have only grabbed cheesecake from the front display, but oh my gosh! To die for! The Cinnabon - 10/10. Everytime we are in the area we stop by for a slice or two to take home! Must try if you're in the area. read more

Had lunch today at Smoky Tony's while visiting family, everything was very good. Started with orders of fried pickles and hush puppies, both were great, my kids ate all the hush puppies so I ordered a second order for the adults! Had the half-pound Burnt Ends special with sides of BBQ beans and cole slaw, everything tasted good and was prepared well. Wife had pulled pork and fries, and my kids both had the Mac n cheese. Everything tasted good to me, be warned, there's a hint of jalapeño in the Mac N cheese,'so it may not be great for little ones like my four-year old. Everyone was nice to us and the owner came out and asked us about our food/ thanked us for coming. Nice to support a local family place, will definitely be back when in town! read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Half-pound Burnt Ends platter with cole slaw and BBQ baked beans (and a bit of my wife's pulled pork) - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

Ribs are tender, everything we ate was delicious. House made desserts. Generous portions and excellent service. read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Full slab of ribs, collard greens & BBQ baked beans - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina

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Nice BBQ place. It's family owned and the staff was great! We had brisket and ribs with sides. Only critique is that the meat was not super hot (temperature) it was lukewarm read more

Smoky Tony's BBQ - Brisket - Southern Near Me - Holly Ridge, North Carolina