I spent some time this week in Gastonia and took the opportunity to stop at three Q-joints in the area. I went to two other locations that "Google" had listed as barbecue restaurants, but they were closed: "Big Mans Bar-Bq of Gastonia" is now a toy shop; while "Carolina Country Barbecue" on Union Road is a tea room.
I did get to "Hillbillys Barbeque and Steaks" on Garrison Road, "Ray's Smokehouse Grill" on South Broad Street, and "R.O.'s Barbecue" on Gaston Ave. Please see the reviews on the "Charlotte/Gastonia" section of "Restaurant Reviews".
Not the best area for barbecue!!!