Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que

Pierce's Pitt Bar-B-Que is a Williamsburg institution that's been smoking meat since 1971, and it remains one of the most beloved family restaurants in the area. Located just off I-64 near the Williamsburg Pottery, it's a natural pit stop between Colonial Williamsburg and the area's other attractions.

The menu is focused and unpretentious: pulled pork, baby back ribs, beef brisket, smoked chicken, and a handful of classic sides including coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, and hush puppies. Everything is slow-smoked on-site, and the quality is consistent — Pierce's has won numerous regional and national barbecue awards. The pulled pork sandwich is the signature order, and the vinegar-based sauce lets the smoke flavor shine.

The atmosphere is quintessentially casual. Paper-lined trays replace plates. Napkin dispensers sit on every table. The dining room is utilitarian, and the outdoor picnic area has a laid-back, cookout vibe. For families with young kids, the lack of formality is a feature — there's no stress about spills, noise, or sticky fingers. Everyone is here for the same reason: great barbecue.

Pierce's sweet tea is genuinely famous. It's been featured in food publications and is the first thing most locals recommend to visitors. The recipe hasn't changed in decades, and it's the perfect accompaniment to smoky, savory barbecue. Kids who try it for the first time often declare it their new favorite drink.

The restaurant's location makes it a strategic choice for families. It sits at the intersection of routes connecting Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and the Williamsburg Premium Outlets. Many families build their day around a Pierce's lunch, fueling up between morning and afternoon activities.