Pop’s Butts on the Creek BBQ

A slow-smoked barbecue restaurant on lower Soco Road, Pop’s Butts on the Creek serves tender brisket, pulled pork, smoked wings, and Southern sides with creekside deck seating, a glass blowing studio, and catering services in Maggie Valley.

About Pop’s Butts on the Creek

Pop’s Butts on the Creek is a barbecue restaurant located at 1584 Soco Road on the lower end of the Maggie Valley corridor. The restaurant sources high-quality meats and smokes them low and slow, turning out tender brisket, pulled pork, smoked wings, and burnt ends that have made it a go-to stop for barbecue lovers visiting the Smoky Mountains.

The menu is built around classic Southern barbecue with a focus on quality over quantity of options. The sliced beef brisket is a standout, known for its tender texture and rich smoky flavor. The burnt ends are finished in a sweet sauce that balances the smokiness, and the pulled pork sandwich is a reliable favorite for a quick, satisfying meal. Sides include brisket baked beans, mac and cheese, hush puppies, fried corn on the cob, collard greens, and fries. The banana pudding is a must-try dessert that reviewers consistently call out as one of the best in the valley.

The setting adds to the experience. The back deck overlooks a mountain creek, offering a relaxed, scenic spot to enjoy your meal outdoors. An on-site glass blowing studio and gift shop give guests something to explore while waiting for their order or after finishing their meal. Pop’s also offers catering services for events and gatherings in the Maggie Valley area, bringing their slow-smoked barbecue to larger groups.

Getting to Pop’s Butts on the Creek

Pop’s Butts on the Creek is located at 1584 Soco Road on the lower end of the Maggie Valley corridor. The restaurant is easy to find on the main highway through town and offers on-site parking. Its position on lower Soco Road makes it a convenient first or last stop for visitors entering or leaving Maggie Valley from the Waynesville direction.

Why Choose Pop’s Butts on the Creek

Pop’s Butts on the Creek delivers on the basics that matter most in barbecue: quality meats, real smoke, and generous portions at a fair price. The brisket and burnt ends are the highlights of the menu, with a depth of flavor that comes from low-and-slow smoking done right. The pulled pork and smoked wings round out a menu that covers the essentials without overcomplicating things, and the Southern sides hold their own alongside the meats.

The creekside deck is what sets Pop’s apart from other quick-service spots on Soco Road. Sitting on the back deck with a plate of brisket and a view of the mountain creek is the kind of simple, satisfying experience that visitors to the Smokies are looking for. The on-site glass blowing studio adds an unexpected touch, giving families and groups something to browse while they visit. For larger events, the catering service brings Pop’s barbecue to you, making it a practical option for reunions, weddings, and group gatherings in the area.

Menu Favorites

• Sliced Beef Brisket. Tender, slow-smoked brisket with a rich, deep flavor that reviewers consistently praise.
• Burnt Ends. Finished in a sweet sauce that balances the smokiness, a must-try for barbecue fans.
• Pulled Pork Sandwich. A classic, smoky pulled pork sandwich that delivers on flavor and portion size.
• Smoked Wings. Perfectly seasoned and smoked, a popular starter or main that stands out on the menu.
• Brisket Baked Beans. A hearty side loaded with brisket pieces and rich, savory flavor.
• Fried Corn on the Cob. A crispy, indulgent take on a Southern classic.
• Banana Pudding. A creamy, homemade dessert that reviewers describe as heavenly and one of the best in the valley.

What to Expect

• A casual, no-frills barbecue spot with a log cabin aesthetic and a laid-back mountain vibe.
• Outdoor deck seating overlooking a mountain creek, a relaxing spot to enjoy your meal.
• An on-site glass blowing studio and gift shop with handcrafted glass pieces to browse.
• Slow-smoked meats prepared with high-quality cuts and real smoke.
• Southern sides and homemade desserts, including the popular banana pudding.
• Catering services available for events, reunions, and group gatherings.
• Open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (hours may vary seasonally, call ahead to confirm).
• Takeout and online ordering available. Delivery through DoorDash.

Nearby Restaurants in Maggie Valley

• Valley Tavern. A creekside sports bar and grill inside the Smoky Falls Lodge with burgers, prime rib, live music, and over 20 TVs on Soco Road.
• Organic Beans Coffee Company. A local coffee shop on Soco Road serving specialty coffees and light bites in a relaxed mountain setting.
• Teague’s Corner Cafe. A cozy spot for coffee, baked goods, and light bites in a relaxed mountain setting.
• Bizarro Pasta & New York Pizza. New York style from homemade dough, classic Italian pasta dishes, calzones, and garlic knots with generous portions.

Explore More

Pop’s Butts on the Creek is your gateway to a full Maggie Valley experience. After your meal, explore the area’s many attractions and outdoor activities.

• Things to Do in Maggie Valley
• Attractions in Maggie Valley
• Outdoor Adventure
• Food and Beverage Guide