July, 2007

Rating : 8 out of 10

Tariff : Dinner for 3

• 3 entrees
• 1 extra side
• two fountain drinks
• $39 (takeout--no tip)

Atmosphere

As you might expect at a southern barbeque, the theme at McPhearson's is pork--but they really get carried away with pigs and diners will have fun finding all the pig-related kitsch among the old time decor of this friendly local restaurant. Located right on the main street of quaint Port Royal, McPhearson's is small with about 12 tables plus a bar/counter area. Their big BBQ is in an enclosed room to one side and a window lets diners see what's cookin'. The restaurant is decorated with an old-fashioned stove, a popcorn machine, some kitchen cupboards, and framed produce crate labels, not to mention all the pigs. Pigs in pictures, statues of pigs, even tiny flying pigs on an artificial tree behind the bar.

Service

The two times I stopped in, the service was downright friendly. I was greeted, chatted with, and I got my order promptly.

Food

We tried the pork plate dinner--a big mound of tender, sweet shredded pork with sauce on the side. I had the seafood chowder with it and found it to be a very spicy, rich cream soup with lots of seafood flavor. Another pork dinner came with fries and delicious homemade cole slaw. The fries were soggy and not so great, although carrying them home in the takeout container undoubtedly contributed to that state. The pork rib dinner was a good portion--a pound of tender ribs, no grease (again with sauce on the side) and with it we tried the Brunswick stew--this southern specialty is a thick stew with a strong taste that may not be for everyone. We all had the corn bread, but it was a bit too dry and crumbly (no butter included). An additional side of macaroni & cheese turned out to be a hit--tasting just like homemade.

McPhearson's serves several other soups, a few salads, chicken and beef dinners, sandwiches, family style meals, and delicious sounding desserts like banana pudding and peach cobbler at ridiculously reasonable prices--come on down!

McPhearson's Serious Barbeque
1001 Paris Ave.
Port Royal, SC
(843) 525-9424