If you are looking for some of the best barbecue in Matthews, NC, there is a good chance you have heard about Mac’s Speed Shop. Known for slow-smoked BBQ, burgers, wings, and a laid-back biker-barbecue atmosphere, Mac’s Speed Shop has become a popular spot around the Charlotte area for locals and visitors alike.
My wife and I recently stopped by the Matthews, North Carolina, location for a date night while exploring the area, and honestly, I could see why so many people talk about this place.
Where Is Mac’s Speed Shop in Matthews, NC?
Mac's Speed Shop is located in downtown Matthews, just outside of Charlotte, North Carolina. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, plenty of TVs, cold drinks, and the smell of smoked barbecue filling the air the second you walk in.
Address:
142 E John St
Matthews, NC 28105
Mac’s Speed Shop first opened in Charlotte in 2005 and has expanded to several locations across North Carolina and South Carolina over the years.
The Atmosphere at Mac’s Speed Shop
One thing that immediately stands out at Mac’s Speed Shop is the atmosphere. It has that perfect mix of Southern barbecue joint, biker hangout, and sports bar all rolled into one.
The place feels casual and welcoming without trying too hard. If you love restaurants with rustic wood, loud conversations, smoked meat, motorcycles, and cold sweet tea, you will probably feel right at home here.
It feels like the kind of place where you can show up in blue jeans after a long day and just relax with good food and friends.
The Food at Mac’s Speed Shop
Mac’s Speed Shop is known for hickory-smoked barbecue cooked low and slow. Their menu includes pulled pork, brisket, smoked chicken, ribs, burgers, wings, tacos, sandwiches, and Southern-style sides.
Pulled Pork Plate Review
I ordered the pulled pork plate during our visit. The pork had a really good smoke flavor without being overpowering. Sometimes smoked meat can taste too heavy, but this one had a nice, balanced flavor.
The barbecue was tender and juicy overall. I did notice a little fat and gristle mixed in, but the flavor itself was still very solid. The BBQ sauce paired really well with the pork and added just enough sweetness and tanginess.
The sides helped round out the meal nicely and gave it that classic Southern barbecue feel.
Smoked Chicken Wrap Review
My wife ordered the smoked chicken wrap, and honestly, this may have been my favorite thing we tried.
The smoked chicken had great flavor, and the wrap itself tasted fresh and balanced. What really stood out, though, was the slaw. It had a nice combination of sweetness, vinegar, and a little heat that worked perfectly together.
It was one of those meals where you keep saying, “Just one more bite.”
Best Things to Order at Mac’s Speed Shop
If you are visiting Mac’s Speed Shop for the first time, some of the most popular menu items include:
- Pulled pork BBQ
- Smoked wings
- Beef brisket
- Burnt ends
- BBQ sandwiches
- Mac and cheese
- Smoked chicken wraps
- Burgers
- BBQ tacos
- Fried pickles
Their menu also includes a variety of homemade sauces ranging from sweet Carolina-style BBQ to mustard-based sauces and spicy options.
Is Mac’s Speed Shop Worth It?
In my opinion, yes — especially if you enjoy casual barbecue restaurants with good smoked meat and a fun atmosphere.
No restaurant is perfect, and I always try to give honest reviews. While the pulled pork had a little more fat than I personally prefer, the overall flavor, atmosphere, and experience were still very good.
Mac’s Speed Shop is the kind of place I would gladly visit again if I were in the Matthews or Charlotte area looking for barbecue.
Final Thoughts on Mac’s Speed Shop in Matthews, NC
Overall, Mac’s Speed Shop in Matthews, NC delivers a solid Southern barbecue experience with flavorful smoked meats, good sides, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
If you are searching for:
- Best BBQ in Matthews, NC
- Restaurants near Charlotte, NC
- Best pulled pork near Charlotte
- Casual barbecue restaurants in North Carolina
- Southern BBQ restaurants worth visiting
Then Mac’s Speed Shop is definitely worth adding to your list.
If you loved eating at Mac's Speed Shop, check out the Park Place Restaurant in Pineville, NC. I think it will be one you love as well!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mac’s Speed Shop
Mac’s Speed Shop specializes in Southern barbecue, including pulled pork, brisket, ribs, smoked chicken, wings, burgers, sandwiches, and Southern-style sides.
Yes, Mac’s Speed Shop has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere while also offering a fun, sports-bar-style environment.
Many Mac’s Speed Shop locations include outdoor seating and patio areas.
Yes, Mac’s Speed Shop is well known around the Charlotte area for hickory-smoked barbecue and Southern comfort food.
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