Savoring Success with Authentic Southern BBQ
In Columbia, South Carolina, Roy's BBQ & Grille has earned a reputation for delivering mouthwatering Southern barbecue that keeps customers returning for more. Founded by Chef Chris Williams, a 2022 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, this restaurant is renowned for its commitment to quality, flavor, and exceptional service, making it a beloved fixture in the local culinary scene.
A Menu Full of Southern Flavors
Roy's BBQ & Grille offers a diverse menu that highlights the best of Southern barbecue traditions. Key offerings include:
- Slow-Cooked BBQ: Specializing in slow-cooked meats, Roy's BBQ & Grille serves up tender, flavorful barbecue that melts in your mouth. Each dish is crafted with care and expertise, from pulled pork and brisket to ribs and chicken.
- Homemade Sides: To complement its BBQ, the restaurant offers a variety of homemade sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, and cornbread. These classic sides enhance the dining experience, providing the perfect balance to the rich flavors of its meats.
- Signature Sauces: Roy's BBQ & Grille is renowned for its signature sauces, which add a unique twist to its dishes. Whether you prefer tangy, sweet, or spicy, there’s a sauce to suit every palate.
- Daily Specials: The restaurant features specials that showcase creative takes on traditional barbecues to keep things exciting. These specials offer something new for regular customers to enjoy and attract barbecue enthusiasts looking for unique flavors.
Farm-to-Table Ingredients
Chef Chris Williams is dedicated to using fresh, local ingredients and embracing the farm-to-table philosophy. By sourcing produce and meats from local farms, Roy's BBQ & Grille ensures the highest quality and supports the local agricultural community. This commitment to fresh, sustainable ingredients enhances their dishes' flavors and promotes environmental responsibility.
Meet Chef Chris Williams
Chef Chris Williams, the visionary behind Roy's BBQ & Grille, brings a wealth of culinary expertise and passion to the restaurant. A Columbia native, Chef Williams began his culinary journey at a young age, inspired by his grandfather Roy, who taught him the art of barbecue. After earning a degree in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University, Chris honed his skills at various renowned establishments before launching Roy's BBQ & Grille. As a 2022 South Carolina Chef Ambassador, he has been recognized for his contributions to the culinary arts and his commitment to promoting South Carolina’s rich food heritage. Chef Williams's dedication to using fresh, local ingredients and his innovative approach to traditional Southern barbecue set Roy's BBQ & Grille apart.
Commitment to Quality
At Roy's BBQ & Grille, quality is paramount. The restaurant uses only the finest ingredients and follows time-honored smoking techniques to ensure every dish meets high standards. This dedication to quality has earned them a loyal customer base and rave reviews.
Exceptional Customer Service
Roy's BBQ & Grille is not just about great food; it's also about providing a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. The friendly and attentive staff ensures every guest feels at home, contributing to the restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere. This focus on customer service has been a critical factor in their success.
Community Involvement
Roy's BBQ & Grille is deeply involved in the Columbia community, contributing not only through their culinary offerings but also through various charitable and educational efforts.
- 2020 Voter Support: In 2020, Roy's BBQ & Grille fed voters standing in line at the polls, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the community's civic engagement.
- Career Day Participation: In 2022 and 2023, Chef Chris Williams participated in Irmo Middle School's Career Day, inspiring students by sharing his journey and passion for the culinary arts. Additionally, in 2023, he extended his outreach to Sandel Elementary's Career Day, encouraging younger students to explore their interests.
- Grilling Class for Seniors: In 2024, Chef Williams taught a grilling class at the Shepherd's Center of Columbia, sharing his expertise with the community's senior members and fostering a sense of camaraderie through food.
- Annual Donations: Every year, Roy's BBQ & Grille donates money to the Shriners and sponsors Shriners Circus tickets for disadvantaged families and children, ensuring that more families can enjoy this cherished event.
- Thanksgiving Dinners: Roy's BBQ & Grille is also known for its annual tradition of sponsoring Thanksgiving dinners for families in need, ensuring that no one in the community goes without a warm meal during the holiday season.
These efforts reflect Roy's BBQ & Grille's commitment to giving back to the community and supporting those in need. Their involvement in these activities has not only strengthened their ties with the local community but also enhanced their reputation as a business that genuinely cares about its customers and neighbors.
Success Stories
Roy's BBQ & Grille's success is reflected in its growing customer base and positive feedback. Customers frequently praise the restaurant for its delicious food, friendly service, and welcoming environment. These success stories highlight Roy's BBQ & Grille's impact on the Columbia dining scene.
Impact of the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator Program
Participation in the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator Program has been pivotal for Roy's BBQ & Grille’s future. The program has provided invaluable resources and support, helping Chef Chris Williams and his team refine their business strategies and expand their reach. Through mentorship, networking opportunities, and business development resources, Roy's BBQ & Grille has gained insights that have been integrated into its operations, enhancing the quality of its services and broadening its customer base. This strategic support positions Roy's BBQ & Grille for significant growth and continued success.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, Roy's BBQ & Grille aims to continue delighting customers with their authentic Southern barbecue. Plans for the future include expanding their menu, introducing new specials, exploring opportunities for growth within the Columbia area with a breakfast and brunch restaurant and selling their signature sauces. Their focus on innovation and customer satisfaction ensures they will remain a top choice for barbecue lovers.
Conclusion
Roy's BBQ & Grille is a premier destination for authentic Southern barbecue in Columbia, SC. Their commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and community involvement, combined with the culinary expertise of Chef Chris Williams and a dedication to farm-to-table ingredients, make them a standout small business in the local culinary landscape. For those seeking an authentic Southern BBQ taste, Roy's BBQ & Grille is the place to be.
For more information and to stay updated on their latest offerings, visit their website and follow them on Facebook.
More About the Midlands Minority Business Accelerator Program
The Midlands Minority Business Accelerator (MMBA) is a program of the Columbia Chamber in partnership with the South Carolina Minority Business Accelerator. The South Carolina Minority Business Accelerator is a statewide initiative formed by the Greenville Chamber, the Charleston Metro Chamber, and the Columbia Chamber.
Funded with a seed grant from Bank of America, the initiative was designed to advance economic inclusion across the state of South Carolina by helping to reduce the economic disparities experienced by minority-owned businesses. The initiative provides opportunities for economic growth and prosperity for high-potential minority-owned firms. MMBA is the Columbia Chamber's major economic development tool designed to make minority businesses more competitive.
