Pull up a chair —
we saved you
a seat at the table.
Slow-smoked brisket, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and sides made from scratch — all served with the kind of warmth that makes strangers feel like family.
12+ hrs
low & slow smoked
Locally loved
since 1995
30+
Years
Real smoke. Real slow.
Real good.
Thelma Lou BBQ and Grill has been a Shelby staple since 1995 — a place where the pit is lit before dawn and the coffee's always fresh. What started as a family dream has grown into the kind of restaurant folks drive past town just to eat at.
Every cut is smoked low and slow over hickory and oak. Every side is made from scratch in our kitchen. And every person who walks through our door gets treated like they've been coming here for years — because honestly, they probably have.
From the pit to your plate
Our menu is built around what the smokehouse delivers — tender, flavorful, and never rushed.
From the Pit
Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and turkey — all smoked low and slow over hickory and oak. Served with two sides.
- ▸ Smoked Brisket
- ▸ Pull Pork (full / half)
- ▸ St. Louis Ribs
- ▸ Smoked Turkey Breast
- ▸ House Smoked Sausage
Heartier Plates
Loaded plates, sandwiches, and comfort classics built for the hungry — because you came hungry.
- ▸ The Thelma Lou Plate (3 meats + 2 sides)
- ▸ BBQ Combo Sandwich
- ▸ Rib Plate (half rack)
- ▸ Brisket Plate
- ▸ Pulled Pork Sandwich
Sides & Starts
Homemade sides that hold their own at the table — plus soups, salads, and small bites to kick things off.
- ▸ Creamy Mac & Cheese
- ▸ Collard Greens
- ▸ Baked Beans
- ▸ Cornbread Muffins
- ▸ Coleslaw & Potato Salad
Ask about our daily specials and seasonal specials — always changing, always fresh.
Things to look forward to
Tuesday Taco Night
Smoked brisket tacos, loaded nachos, and cold drinks — every Tuesday to kick off the weekend right.
Family Feast Sundays
Bring the whole crew. Full platters for the table, kid-friendly options, and dessert included.
Daily Lunch Specials
A different combo every day — grab a quick plate before 3 PM and taste what's fresh that morning.
A peek inside
We're ready when you are.
Walk-ins are always welcome. For large groups or catering, give us a call and we'll get you squared away.
901 College Ave
Shelby, NC 28152-9515
Call for reservations & catering
Hours
Mon – Thu: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Fri – Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
