Welcome to Essie Mae's Old South BBQ, a culinary gem located at 14295 FL-78, Okeechobee, FL 34974. This restaurant is dedicated to serving up authentic Southern barbecue that embodies the rich flavors and traditions of the region. If you're a barbecue lover, this is a destination you won't want to miss.
The moment you approach Essie Mae’s, the mouthwatering aroma of perfectly smoked meats fills the air, beckoning you inside. The menu is succinct yet packed with bold options that cater to every craving. From tender pulled pork sandwiches at just $8.95 to the hearty 2 meat combo plates featuring ribs and brisket for $24.95, each dish is crafted with care, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
For those seeking a full plate, the pulled pork plate at $12.95 comes highly recommended, as does the jerk chicken plate for $14.95. Customers rave about the tangy BBQ sauce that elevates the meats to another level. The sides, including creamy coleslaw and savory baked beans, perfectly complement the rich barbecue flavors.
Recent rave reviews from customers affirm the high standards at Essie Mae's. One visitor, Kerwin di Pietro, described the 2 meat combo platter as "worth every single penny,” particularly highlighting the ribs and sausage paired with classic sides. Tami Goeke appreciated the cozy decor and delightful appetizers, while Bridget Williams hailed the jerk chicken and brisket as the best she’s ever tasted from a food truck.
The dedication to quality is palpable. Each dish is prepared with attention, ensuring tender, juicy meat every time. Even the drinks, like the refreshing strawberry lemonade for $4.80, are crafted to satisfy and complement the hearty meal. This focus on flavor, combined with friendly service, makes every visit feel special.
As a top spot in Okeechobee’s food scene, Essie Mae's Old South BBQ is a must-try for both locals and travelers. Whether you're visiting the area for fishing or just passing through, make sure you stop by. Your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find your new favorite BBQ joint. Don’t forget, if the delightful food doesn't entice you, the vibrant atmosphere surely will. Come experience the heart and soul of Southern BBQ at Essie Mae's—where every bite tells a story!
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Kerwin Di Pietro
18/10/2025
Was driving by on a car cruise with the windows down and the heavenly smell of bbq hit my nostrils. I knew i had to turn around and get me some bbq. Worth every single penny. I got the 2 meat combo platter with ribs and sausage and mac n cheese and cole slaw as my sides. 10/10 their tangy sauce also amazing
Tami Goeke
05/10/2025
Food was good. We went I. For a quick appetizers. They have limited menu, so we just shared a pork sandwich plate with 2 sides $12.95 slaw and cabbage both delicious. Strawberry lemonade too. They just opened April 1st, so still new, but doing great. Loved the decor too.
Bridget Williams
08/09/2025
We got jerk chicken and brisket with potatoe salad and cabbage. It was soooo awesome!! The best food out of a food truck we have tried yet!!!! You do not know what you are missing if you don't try this place!!!!! The Best BBQ So far we have tried around this area or around our home area. Yall gotta stop by !!!!!!!!! Plus worth every penny you pay for it:-) and yes they are open in the food truck!!!!
Kim M
16/08/2025
Every year I look forward to coming to Lake Okeechobee for fishing and this BBQ! I can honestly say that I’ve never had anything here that wasn’t great, and I think I’ve tried it all! Friendly service, decent price, and big portions. Love it!
Jamie Van Rinsvelt
08/08/2025
I pulled over on a whim just out of craving and I was not disappointed! The pulled pork (coleslaw on the burger) sandwich was tender and juicy with Carolina style sauce matched with the baked beans and potato salad. Sweet tea to compliment it. I did wish there was a bread option like cornbread!