Mac's Speed Shop has been a cornerstone of the Carolinas' barbecue scene since it first opened its doors in Charlotte, North Carolina, in May 2005. What began as a wild idea among five friends with no restaurant experience, a smoker from Texas, and a lot of heart, has evolved into a beloved local institution. Over the past two decades, Mac's has grown from a single location to a chain of nine restaurants across North and South Carolina, with two more in the works.
Co-founder Hall Johnston reflects on the journey, saying, “We never imagined we’d still be cranking out barbecue 20 years later. It’s all because of the people who walked through our doors.”
Mac's has become more than just a place to grab great barbecue; it's a gathering space that brings people together. To celebrate its 20th anniversary, Mac's Speed Shop is hosting a series of events and activities
across all nine locations in North and South Carolina, including the Fayetteville location at 482 North McPherson Church Road. The festivities kicked off on May 16, National Barbecue Day, and will run through May 28, National Brisket Day, culminating in Mac's popular Bike/Jeep/Speed Night.
Throughout 2025, Mac's will continue to celebrate with activations, including a social series, "20 Stories for 20 Years", which spotlights longtime employees, loyal fans, and unforgettable moments. Be sure to check these out on their social media channels. Follow @macsspeedshop on Instagram and Facebook. The celebration continues later this fall with a special Pig Pickin’ event on Sunday, Oct. 19, hosted in partnership with the Carolina BBQ Festival.
Mac's Speed Shop is known for its mouth-watering barbecue and a wide selection of beers. Their signature dishes include Texas beef brisket, smoked wings, BBQ pulled pork, ribs, sausage, and smoked chicken. They emphasize slow-smoked meats with various sauces, including their famous Carolina BBQ sauce.
The restaurant boasts over 50 draft options and 100 bottles and cans of beer, including local craft beers. They also offer a full liquor menu specializing in cocktails, bourbon, and scotch whisky. During the anniversary celebrations, guests can look forward to food and drink features, limited-edition merchandise, and a throwback pop-up brunch with a special menu.
Mac's Speed Shop has always been committed to giving back to the community. Over the past two decades, they have supported various causes that reflect their fun, family-friendly,
community-first spirit. Current and past initiatives include donating 100% of hush puppy sales to local youth organizations, hosting Community's Cue Nights where local schools receive 10% of proceeds, and offering a 25% discount year-round for first responders, teachers, healthcare workers, and military personnel with valid ID.
As part of its 20th-anniversary campaign, $1 from every pork sandwich sold between May 16 and May 28 will be donated to the North Carolina Community Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund. This fund provides grants to nonprofit and charitable organizations in North Carolina communities impacted by disasters, including those affected by Hurricane Helene.
“The average restaurant lasts three to five years—we’ve lasted 20,” said co-owner Wynn Davis. “That’s a testament to our team, our customers, and the way Mac’s brings people together. We’ve had NASCAR legends, rock stars, military and local softball teams all sharing beers and BBQ at the same place. That’s the kind of experience we set out to build.”