I have been to BBQ restaurants in the Georgia, Texas, and other places in the south and southwest. Old Carolina sits among the top places I have been to. Locally, in Mentor, it is the best and is the place we go to for our BBQ when I am lazy and don't want to smoke my own brisket or pork.
The staff has always been friendly and we never had negative issues with them. The menu selections are diverse and you can mix and match your meats and sides.
Initially, looking at the menu and the meal costs you think the food is expensive. Upon receiving you food (delivered to your table) you see the portions are huge. You will not leave hungry. The fries are fresh cut and piled high on the platter. I am never big on restaurant Mac & Cheese as it is usually bland and noodles are over cooked. old Carolina does a perfect job and I usually order this as one of my sides.
As with any place there will be times when there is a bad meal or a reviewer with an attitude because they have super high expectations. With that said, you should give Old Carolina a shot.