North Carolina and BBQ might as well be synonymous. We’re the BBQ state with two different types to boot. But with so much claim to fame with the Q, it can be hard to find the real deal and the deal that’s just alright. Not to mention, the entire state is brimming with amazing BBQ joints and each native has their favorite. But, between reviews, scores, and deliciousness – these 10 restaurants have stood the test of wood-smoked time, and serve the best barbecue in North Carolina. So grab your loved ones and head on out to any of these great spots!
Don't let the exterior fool you, B's is by far the best eastern style Q you'll find in North Carolina. People line up around the exterior every weekend for a taste of the good stuff. North Carolina BBQ doesn’t get much better than this! The reviews on TripAdvisor rave about the fast service and delicious food.
And on the other side of the spectrum, the Honeymonk is some of the best Lexington BBQ you'll find in the state. After all, it is in the birthplace of Lexington-style. Check out their hours of operation and stay up to date on their mouthwatering menu when you pursue their website.
Another NC BBQ landmark is the classic, delicious, and legendary Short Sugar's. This little joint has been frequented by famous faces, devoted locals, and BBQ travelers from across America (if that's a job, sign me up). The hand-pulled BBQ and homemade sauce has been winning awards since this little joint first opened in 1949. Of all the barbecue restaurants in North Carolina, this is one of the most fun! Read more about the history of this fabulous, and plan your next meal out!
This no-frills joint serves BBQ family style & a-la-carte. It's about as simple as it gets but the BBQ is amazing. Even though it’s one of the unassuming restaurants in North Carolina, the food is anything but. In fact, they’ve started a food truck and catering service, because the demand for this barbecue is so high!
Wilber's has been consistently ranked as one of the best BBQ joints in the state, even getting a mention in Southern Living. You'll be in hog heaven on your next trip to the beach. Make sure to follow their Facebook page and stay up to date on hours of operation and all their mouth watering specials.
Although Stamey's has grown to two locations...the BBQ is still authentic and delicious. It's smoked for 8-10 hours over hardwood hickory coals. Not to mention the hush puppies and slaw. Yum! No matter which location you visit, this is some North Carolina BBQ that will have you coming back for more.
Voted Best BBQ in the NATION by Garden & Gun, you can guarantee a great BBQ platter with a side of hushpuppies. With 70 years in the BBQ biz plus fresh-cooked and smoked daily...you get the best here. This is an award winning restaurant that deserves a spot at the top of your list. They even cater!
The Skylight Inn has been cookin' up amazing, whole hog, Eastern Style BBQ since 1947. The cornbread recipe dates back to the 1830's and the family has been in the BBQ business since 1811...so basically you know it's gonna be good. In fact, it’s good they’ve created an offshoot, Sam Jones BBQ Restaurant, with two tasty location in North Carolina.
Little Richard's has both a great atmosphere and great food. Dine beneath original tobacco advertisements and regalia (it is Camel city) while eating some delicious, tangy, vinegar-based BBQ. The best in Winston-Salem. Drop by on a Monday, and Little Richard’s will donate the funds necessary to Feed My Starving Children to purchase one meal for every meal sold that day at the restaurant.
Get here early and grab your spot in line...trust me though, you won't mind waiting. Everything is made from scratch and prepared daily. It's not just the BBQ that's killer here, but also all the sides to go with your BBQ. You can get great barbecue from their restaurants in both their South and River locations. Make sure to check out their website for up to date information about their hours of operation.
What did you think of our list? What’s your favorite BBQ joint in North Carolina? Do you think these spots have the best barbecue in North Carolina? ! Tell us in the comments below, because we want to hear what you think!
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Best Barbecue In North Carolina
Megan McDonald|April 20, 2021
Does North Carolina have tasty barbecue?
North Carolina’s barbecue has won awards at many national competitions, and the state is realized as being home to some of the best barbecue joints in the United States of America.
What kind of barbecue can you find in North Carolina?
There are two main types of barbecue in the great state of North Carolina: Eastern and Lexington. You’ll findthat the Eastern-style barbecue uses a vinegar and pepper-based sauce. Eastern style incorporates doesn’t use tomatoes, resulting in two distinct and delish types of barbecue.
