Blog – Melvins BBQ

Melvin Bessinger in his WWII Soldier uniform, 1943

11/08/2023

Melvin Bessinger - The Man, The Myth, The Legendary War Hero

"I can die getting on the train, or I can die trying to escape. So, I'm going to take my chances and die running."

The true story of Melvin Eugene Bessinger, a D-Day +2 Prisoner of War and Invasion of Normandy survivor, journaled following his return from WWII.

11/26/2019

How to Smoke Your Thanksgiving Turkey

Although Melvin's BBQ will be closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow our staff to spend time with their families, we wanted to share our Turkey recipe with our loving customers to inspire you for your big meal and show you how we do it at Melvin's! From our kitchen to yours, we hope you enjoy our Turkey Tips. Read More

Melvin Bessinger and his wife, Betty Bessinger, of Melvin’s BBQ, on their wedding day, February 7, 1959

02/14/2019

For the Love of Melvin's BBQ

The roles played by the sweethearts of Melvin’s BBQ, are primarily supportive, but not inconsequential to David Bessinger. “My Mother, Betty and my wife, Debbie are not just the backbone of our family, they...

12/31/2018

Charleston Hoppin John is essential to ring in new year’s in the south

The new year does not begin in the south without a bowl of Charleston Hoppin John. Tales surrounding the origins of Hoppin John are mystical and controversial. Even the spelling of the old Charleston receipt varies among...

The family after enjoying Pork tenderloin Christmas Dinner prepared by Melvin’s daughter in law, Debbie Bessinger

12/21/2018

Best pork tenderloin recipe for traditional Christmas dinner

The best Christmas menus are founded by tradition. From the kitchen of Melvin’s daughter in law, Debbie Bessinger- this red currant pork tenderloin recipe has been a staple at her family’s Christmas table for...

Brothers Thomas (left) and Melvin Bessinger work at grill (Charleston Evening Post, June 30, 1976)

12/17/2018

Melvin’s bbq owner, Melvin David Bessinger sheds light on recent article published in the Post and Courier

As the owner and operator of Melvin’s BBQ, and a native of Charleston, SC, I wish to shed light on a recent article (regarding the Mendes family restaurants) published in the Post and...

06/14/2017

South Carolina’s 1st stick burner jambo pit

Any BBQ Pit Master knows the Jambo Pit is top of the line! We are so excited to unveil South Carolina’s 1st “Stick Burner” Jambo Pit at Melvin’s Legendary Barbecue in Mount Pleasant....