This page lists, in alphabetical order, all the barbecue joints we’ve visited across North Carolina (bold font) and all the ones we plan to visit someday (regular font). Links to our full reviews are provided where available. If you don’t see your favorite joint listed, drop us a line and we’ll consider adding it to our list of places to visit.
An asterisk indicates that we think the joint is among the best in the state. The letters in the parentheses mean as follows: E = Eastern-style, L = Lexington-style, H = Hybrid of both styles; w = primarily wood-cooked and g/e = primarily gas/electric-cooked, to the best of our knowledge.
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A&G BBQ & Chicken, Carolina Beach (E, g/e) – Really bad barbecue, skip it and head straight to the beach. D-
[See note] *A&M Grill, Mebane (L, w) – Still cookin’ with wood after all these years and it shows.I’m not crazy about their too-ketchupy dip, but the meat itself is full of flavor and the sides are good too. A- NOTE: Out of business as of July 2011.
Adams Roadside Bar-B-Q , Goldsboro – We’ll make there someday…
*Allen & Son Barbeque, Chapel Hill (H, w) – I was raised on this ‘cue so I am biased, but after eating BBQ across the state I still think Keith Allen’s place is among the best. Make sure to try the homemade desserts. A+
Allen & Son Bar-B-Q, Pittsboro (H, g/e) - Don’t be fooled, this Allen’s has nothing to do with the one in Chapel Hill other than being owned by “Son” Keith Allen’s dad way back when. This joint serves better than average gas-cooked BBQ, but don’t confuse it for the real deal. C+
Alston Bridges Barbecue, Shelby – We’ll make it there someday…
*B’s Barbecue, Greenville (E, w) – Come for the barbecue, stay for the chicken, leave before the building collapses. Among the state’s best and most ramshackle barbecue experiences. A-
Backyard BBQ Pit, Durham (E, w) – Good but not great, with the wood-cooked meat hurt by its time on the steam table and a too-fine machine chop. The wide selection of greens and other sides are good too. B-
*The Barbecue Center, Lexington (L, w) – It would be easy for this joint to coast on its reputation, but The BBQ Center continues to produce excellent barbecue in the traditional manner. Their epic desserts (e.g., giant banana splits) are worth trying. A
The Barbecue Joint, Chapel Hill (E, g/e) – Many Chapel Hill residents rave about this place, which should tell you all you need to know. It features mediocre, bland pork served with tasty albeit yuppified sides. Avoid the BBQ and you’ll eat well. C [Note: the restaurant location is out of business, but the Joint lives on as a catering operation.]
[See note] Barbecue Inn, Asheville (L, g/e) – Been a long time since I was there. As I recall it wasn’t very good so I’ve not returned. NOTE: Out of business as of July 2011.
Bill Ellis Barbecue, Wilson (E, g/e) – Good buffet but mediocre pork, Ellis’ seems to be coasting on its reputation. B-
B.J.’s Grill & BBQ, LaGrange (E, w) – Only serves BBQ on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The whole hog ‘cue is tender and flavorful, but go easy on the sauce, which is far too sweet for my tastebuds. B
Blue Mist Barbecue, Asheboro (L, w) – Certainly the best ‘cue near the zoo. Not great but quite good, and since Blue Mist has been around since 1948 and still cooks over wood they have earned my respect. B
Blue Note Grill, Durham (H, g/e) – A nice bar and grill but stick to the burgers and other such fare until they prove the know how to cook barbecue, or at the very least until they add hush puppies to the menu! C-
Bob’s Bar-B-Q, Creedmoor (E, g/e) – Simply not good, sorry. And its served off a steam table too. D+
Bridge’s Barbecue Lodge, Shelby – We’ll make it there someday…
Brushy Mountain Smokehouse, N. Wilkesboro (L, g/e) - Middle of the road barbecue, but worth a visit for the homemade ice cream. C
Bud’s Barbecue, Cumnock – We’ll make it there someday…
Bullock’s Bar B Cue, Durham (E, g/e) – Far better known regionally and nationally than it deserves to be, probably because of all the Duke University-affiliated folks who’ve come through the doors. A pretty good family style restaurant but the barbecue is average at best. C
Bum’s, Ayden – We’ll make it there someday…
Bunn’s, Windsor – We’ll make it there someday…
Byrd’s Barbecue, Durham (H, g/e) – Not good, not bad, just okay. Offers three different types of sauce, which is never a good sign in my book. C
Carolina Bar-B-Q, Statesville (H, w) – Two sauces are available and the spicy thin Eastern-style sauce is the good one, despite Statesville’s location in the heart of Lexington-style Q country. Good ‘cue! B+
Carolina BBQ, Wilmington (E, g/e) – Buffet style southern dining in the largest BBQ joint in the state (a former Food Lion grocery store). Big space, big buffet. Unfortunately, the BBQ is mediocre at best. C-
Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue, Raleigh (E, g/e) – Great atmosphere and palpable history. Unfortunately, the barbecue is subpar. At least you get free fried pork skins with your meal. C-
*Cook’s Barbecue, Lexington (L, w) - A hidden gem that locals have finally discovered. Worth the drive for the succulent, smoky shoulders, although the meat doesn’t taste quite as good since they abandoned hand-chopping. A-
Country Bar-B-Que, Greensboro (L, g/e) – About as good as gas-cooked ‘cue gets. Also the only BBQ place I’ve ever seen next door to a strip club. B
Deano’s Barbecue, Mocksville – We’ll make it there someday…
Dillard’s Bar-B-Q, Durham (H, g/e) – One of the few joints in NC that serves ‘cue with a mustard-based sauce. The pork is mediocre nowadays, but the novelty of the sauce and the many soul food offerings (from pig’s feet to turnip greens) are the real draw. C
Eddie’s Cafe, Newton Grove (E, g/e) – For some reason Newton Grove and it’s big ol’ traffic circle has always appealed to me, but Eddie’s serves middle of the road BBQ. C
Fatback’s, Fayetteville – We’ll make it there someday…
Fuller’s, Fayetteville and Lumberton – We’ll make it there someday…
Fuzzy’s, Madison (L, w) – Review coming soon.
*Grady’s, Dudley (E, w) – Way off the beaten path and easily worth the drive no matter where your starting point. Easily among the state’s best. A+
Grandpa’s Kitchen, Littleton (H, g/e) – Too dry, too bland ‘cue but the small town feel and friendly service make it worth a visit if you’re passing through Littleton. C
Green River Bar-B-Que, Saluda (H, g/e) – It’s been a long time and I don’t remember much about this place, other than it offering multiple sauces including a SC-style mustardy sauce. Bob Garner likes it so I’m guessing I did too.
Herb’s Pit BBQ, Murphy – We’ll make it there someday if we ever make it to the far western corner of the state…
Hill’s Lexington Barbecue, Winston-Salem (L, w) – This joint–really a large family restaurant–has been cooking pork shoulders over hickory coals since 1951 and they still crank out great ‘cue today. Go for the elegant barbecue and stay for the delicious banana pudding. A
Hillsborough BBQ Company, Hillsborough (H, w) – Though they serve hand-chopped pork barbecue cooked over wood pits, the Company departs from local tradition by serving brisket, ribs and other smoked meats that extend beyond the North Carolina tradition. B
Hog Heaven, Durham (E, g/e) - Amazingly popular for a joint that offers up perhaps the worst BBQ in Durham, a city that has no shortage of below-par barbecue. C-
Holly Ridge Smokehouse, Holly Ridge (E, g/e) – At last I’ve found a decent barbecue restaurant near the beach. Nothing special but a nice pork pit stop on the way to Topsail Beach. B-
Holt Lake Bar-B-Q & Seafood, Smithfield (E, g/e) – Judging from the large crowd dining there when I visited, Holt Lake has a lot of loyal fans who will disagree with my opinion that their BBQ is below average. C-
Huey’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Mebane (L, g/e) - The seafood must be good because the barbecue isn’t. The wretched ketchupy sauce that accompanies it doesn’t help. At least the slaw and hush puppies are good. C-
*Hursey’s Bar-B-Q, Burlington (L, w) – Some of the most tender, flavorful pork in NC, and it’s best sans the too-sweet dip Hursey’s offers (instead a little Texas Pete does the trick). Avoid the newer location, as I swear their pork lacks some of the wood-kissed flavor of the original location. A-
Jack’s BBQ, Gibsonville (L, g/e) – Stick to the hamburgers, the ‘cue tastes like it is from a plastic tub. D-
*Jack Cobb & Son Barbecue Place, Farmville (E, w) – An old fashioned BBQ shack with an almost-screened porch for a dining room; great food. A
Jackson’s Brothers, Sanford – We’ll make it there someday…
Jason Grill, Jason – We’ll make it there someday…
J&G Barbecue, Burlington (L, g/e) – Undistinguished barbecue, not bad but not good. C
Jimmy’s BBQ, Lexington (L, w?) – It’s been a few years since I’ve eaten at Jimmy’s and I heard they may have switched to gas-cooking. When I was last there, the meat was terrific and the spicy hot dip a perfect accompaniment so let’s hope that’s still the case.
Joe’s Old Fashioned, Whiteville – We’ll make it there someday…
Ken’s, La Grange – We’ll make it there someday…
King’s Barbecue & Chicken, Kinston (E, g/e) – Probably one of the state’s best known BBQ joints, but not one of it’s best. The ‘cue is fine but nothing special. Notably, their “Oink Express” mail-order service ships ‘cue all over the country. B-
*Lexington #1, Lexington (L, w) – If you haven’t been there yet, go. Now. Lexington #1 is one of an elite few joints that can claim to be the best in the state, though Wayne Monk and company are too humble to make that claim on their own behalf. A+
Little Pigs, Asheville (L, g/e) – Decent barbecue for western North Carolina, as I recall, but I haven’t been there in ages so my memory is hazier than the Blue Ridge Mountains.
*Little Richard’s Barbecue, Winston-Salem (L, w) - Really good barbecue and the vintage tobacco ads on the walls are almost reason enough to visit. Plus, it’s located right near a street called Vinegar Hill Road! A-
M&K Barbecue & Country Cooking, Granite Quarry – We’ll make it there someday…
Mama Jean’s Bar-B-Q Shack, Durham (E, w) – Good barbecue served out of a truck (though a storefront is opening sometime in mid- to late-2010), with the meat cooked over charcoal and hickory chips. Don’t forget to try some ribs or barbecue chicken too. B+
McCall’s Barbecue & Seafood, Goldsboro (E, g/e) – The barbecue served at buffet restaurants is not usually worth eating but McCall’s is worth tasting. Very good barbecue and the rest of the buffet is tasty too. B+
Morris Barbeque, Hookerton – We’ll make it there someday…
Mr. Barbecue, Winston-Salem (L, w) - Solid barbecue, not great but better than average despite the striving-to-be-a-chain name and odd menu items like barbecue tortilla bowls! B
Neil Holden Barbecue, Youngsville – We’ll make it there someday…
Nunnery-Freeman Barbecue, Henderson – We’ll make it there someday…
Oakwood BBQ, Richlands – We’ll make it there someday…
Old Hickory House, Charlotte – We’ll make it there someday…
Ole NC Barbecue, Durham (E, g/e) – The pork is close to as bad as it gets, but the rest of the all you can eat buffet is okay. I think this joint may have gone out of business. D
Ole Time Barbecue, Raleigh (H, g/e) - Reviewing coming soon…
The Original Q-Shack, Durham (H, g.e) – First location of what turned into a mini-chain, but no longer affiliated with the other locations (thankfully). Pork BBQ so-so but other types of BBQ and sides are the reason to visit. C
Outlaw BBQ Shack, Matthews – We’ll make it there someday…
*(The Original) Parker’s Barbecue, Wilson (E, g/e) - A straightforward Eastern-style barbecue joint like God intended it (well, except that they no longer cook on wood-fired pits). Still good stuff and plenty of history to soak up. B+
The Pig, Chapel Hill (E, g/e) – One of the tastiest and most innovative barbecue joints in the state for their menu-wide devotion to the whole hog, but the barbecue itself is middle of the road. A-
The Pink Supper House, Wallace (E, g/e) – Review coming soon.
The Pit, Raleigh (E, w) – Downhome upscale barbecue… or so we hear. We still haven’t eaten at The Pit but you can follow the link for a “non-review.” One of these days we’ll actually eat there and write a real review…
Port-A-Pit, Statesville - We’ll make it there someday…
Prissy Polly’s, Kernersville (H, g/e) - Despite its Lexington-area location, Polly’s does a better job with Eastern-style BBQ. Steer clear of the Lexington-style sauce and you’ll have a decent but not particularly memorable meal. C+
Q-Shack, multiple Triangle locations (H, g/e) – Not good, stick to the unaffiliated Original Q-Shack. D
Ralph’s Barbecue, Weldon (E, g/e) - Review coming soon.
Red Pig Bar-B-Q House, Mocksville – We’ll make it there someday…
Richard’s Barbecue, Salisbury (L, w) - Review coming soon.
Scott’s Barbecue, Goldsboro (E, g/e) - One of the oldest and most historically signicant BBQ joints in the state, and they still bottle a mean sauce, but Scott’s ‘cue ain’t what it used to be. Oh well, still worth a visit to pay your respects to one of barbecue’s first families. C
Shaw’s, Williamston – We’ll make it there someday…
Short Sugar’s Drive-In, Reidsville (L, w) - This joint is legendary and has perhaps the best name in the state, but the ‘cue ain’t what it used to be. It’d help if I liked the unusual sauce, which I don’t much care for, but the meat itself lacks flavor. C+
*Skylight Inn, Ayden (E, w) – Deserves its reputation as among the best in the state. Classic Eastern-style ‘cue served without a lot of hoopla… unless you count that capitol dome on the roof. A+
*Smiley’s, Lexington (L, w) – Outstanding barbecue made the old fashioned way. It takes some good ‘cue to stand out from the crowd in the barbecue Mecca of Lexington, and Smiley’s is among the best.
Smokey Joe’s Barbecue, Lexington (L, w) - I haven’t visited in several years, so take this recommendation with a grain of salt or a dash of Texas Pete, but it was very good on my last visit. A-
Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N’ Bar-B-Q, Everywhere (E, g/e) - I see no reason to visit chain barbecue joints, but in a pinch Smithfield’s will do. It’s pretty decent, consistent gas-cooked ‘cue. C
Snook’s Old Fashion Bar-B-Cue, Clemmons – We’ll make it there someday…
Speedy’s, Lexington (L, g/e) – The sign outside that says “Best B.B.Q. Anywhere” isn’t justified, but Speedy’s is at least “Better Than Average B.B.Q. Everywhere.” B+
Speedy Lohr’s BBQ of Arcadia, Lexington - We’ll make it there someday…
*Stamey’s Old Fashioned Barbecue, Greensboro (L, w) – One of the highest volume barbecue joints in the state, yet they’ve managed to keep cooking very high quality barbecue the old fashioned way (thanks to some huge wood-burning pits!). A-
Stamey’s Barbecue of Tyro, Lexington- We’ll make it there someday…
Stephenson’s Barbecue, Willow Spring (E, w) – This place has a lot of loyal followers but it didn’t do it for me, and the ‘cue didn’t taste wood-cooked to me (though all reports are that it is). C
Troutman Barbecue, Concord – We’ll make it there someday…
Whispering Pines Barbecue, Albermarle – We’ll make it there someday…
White Swan Bar-B-Q & Fried Chicken, Pine Level & other towns nearby (E, g/e) – More than meets the eye. Don’t be fooled by the gas station locations, this is actually pretty good ‘cue! B
Whitley’s Bar-B-Que, Murfreesboro (H, g/e) - It’s main saving grace is that it is open on Sundays. The ‘cue just ain’t good, and is not helped by the sauce, which is among the most ketchupy/Krafty I’ve tasted in NC. C-
Whitley’s Restaurant, Lexington (L, w) - Not in the the same league as the top Lexington joints, Whitley’s says it cooks over wood but the barbecue only tastes average. It’s okay ‘cue if you need a fix but given its location you may as well drive a couple miles to one of the state’s best joints. Offers a 12-pound sandwich called “Hogzilla.” C
Whole Foods BBQ Bar, Chapel Hill (H, g/e) - You know barbecue is the “in” food of the moment when a national natural/organic foods grocer like Whole Foods offers house-cooked ‘cue at its cafe. And lo and behold their NC-style BBQ is not as bad as you might expect, though it’s nothing to get excited about. C-
*Wilber’s Barbecue, Goldsboro (E, w) – A classic Eastern-style barbecue joint, consistently good day in and day out, no small feat for a place that serves as many plates of ‘cue as they do. A
Wink’s King of Barbecue, Salisbury (L, w) – Very good barbecue in one of the state’s original barbecue towns. Good wood-cooked flavor in the ‘cue, though I found it a bit mushy to rate among the state’s very best. B+
The Woodlands Barbecue Restaurant, Blowing Rock – We’ll make it there someday…
JOINTS WE’LL ADD TO THE ABOVE LIST SOON
Blackbeard’s, Conetoe
Big Al’s BBQ, Rolesville food truck
Backcountry BBQ, Linwood
Rock Store BBQ, Matthews
The Red Pig, Mocksville
Snook’s Old Fashioned
Holden’s, Youngsville
Kepley’s, High Point
Clark’s, Kernersville
12 Bones, Asheville
Tar Heel Q, Lexington
Ray’s Smokehouse & Grill, Gastonia
R.O.’s, Gastonia
Black’s, Gastonia
Flying Pig, Shelby
Bibb’s Downtown, Winston-Salem
Keaton’s, Cleveland
Carolina Barbeque Chicken & Ribs, Newland
Doug Saul’s Bar-B-Que & Seafood, Nashville
Bill Spoon’s, Charlotte
Mac’s Speed Shop, Charlotte and Mooresville
Charlie’s, Clayton
Moore’s Old Tyme, New Bern
Which good joint is closest to the Outer Banks? We go down there almost every Summer. Thanks,
Hmm, the Outer Banks are a bit of a BBQ no man’s land so my recommendations depend on where you are driving from. If you have time to venture inland a ways, I’d recommend stopping at B’s in Greenville, Skylight Inn in Ayden or Wilber’s in Goldsboro…it’ll take you some time but the food will be worth the drive. Although not as good, Ralph’s off I-95 in Weldon may Hope that helps and happy to give more ideas if you tell me your route…
Another good option on the way to the Outer Banks is Shaw’s in Williamston.
Why is B’s in Greenville, not in your list? You obviously like it?
Bob, as much as it pains me to admit this, I have yet to make it to B’s. I know its sterling reputation and promise to visit soon!
As a long-time regular visitor to Lexington, I recommend you give Smiley’s a try. Very good ‘cue–Honeymonk’s is probably my favorite, but Smiley’s is close, and they are open on Sundays, so I end up there pretty often, since I often play music in Charlotte on Saturday nights and drive north on Sunday.
BBQ Center is quite good, too.
John, I will follow your advice next time I am in Lexington! I have been to BBQ Center (will review it here one of these days) and agree it is good. Honeymonk’s is still my favorite out there.
Next time you’re out in the mountains (Asheville/Arden), 12 bones is worth a shot. Great ribs, haven’t tried the actual ‘cue yet.
Simon, stay tuned… Monday’s post will discuss the Obama’s recent visit to 12 Bones. Thanks for the tip.
AWESOME BLOG! I love it!
You need to swing by either location of Ole Time Barbecue in the Raleigh area. The original is on Hillsborough St. heading into Cary (when it turns into Chatham, I believe) and the new location is located in Garner. The BBQ is good, but the real reason to go is to meet Jerry Hart, as big a character in NC BBQ as there is.
Thanks for the restaurant recommendation, James. And thanks for the praise, glad you enjoy the blog and your comments are always welcome.
I noticed that Moore’s in New Bern is not on your list. If you’ve not been I hope you can make it soon. I love the ‘que there.
Speedy’s in Lexington. Best ‘cue ever. I regularly bring back ziplocks of frozen Speedy’s bbq in my carry-on to Chicago. Can’t believe you’ve missed it.
Jennifer, I have gotten a few passionate emails about Speedy’s. Rest assured it is on my list, just gotta find the time! Thanks.
Great site. I sent the link to my Jewish co-worker. He won’t eat swine, but he loved the site and sent it around to his buddies.
Keep up the good work and the reviews. I’m always on the lookout for a new place to try.
I noticed that the BBQ Lodge in Raleigh wasn’t listed. It’s been around for over 30 years, and the locals rave about it. Any experience?
Thomas, I’ve yet to visit the Lodge. I’ve heard mixed things but one of these days I’ll find out for myself… and I’ll be sure to report back on it. Anyone else have an opinion on this one?
Great website! …..and Another vote for Speedy’s….I love Speedy’s!
I thought I was the only Jew who loves NC BBQ and pork products. Try Joe’s Old Fashioned BBQ in Whiteville and Fuller’s in Fayetteville and Lumberton. Ever been to the Nahunta Pork Center between Kenly and Pikeville, NC? Spotless and selling everything but the oink.
Dan, always good to hear from a fellow BBQ Jew! Thanks for the restaurant recommendations. I have indeed been to Nahunta and agree that it is an amazing place. See http://bbqjew.com/2009/05/13/nahunta/
Hey Porky! Good reviews! Great to meet you yesterday! We sure had some good tasting ribs! Glad I found this blog! I’ll post LOTS more later.
Take care – (a.k.a. Another_Q_Review)
Great meeting you too bbqtom, and I’m looking forward to seeing more of your comments here. Until then, be well!
love your Villas interview – what a great book! – and love your list. I wish you’d also identify who’s cooking only shoulder and who’s got whole hog (a lot of cue places lie about this) and especially who has skin chopped in.
I think that’s one reason the Skylight cue is so outstanding. Of course it can be done perfectly – whole hog, cooked slow over hickory or oak, a little skin chopped in – and even so the results can be mediocre or inconsistent. So finding the great cue is a huge challenge.
Thanks Fran, your ideas about listing which joints are whole hog, etc. are good, I’ll try and add that in when I get a chance.
Need to add Ole Time BBQ in Raleigh to the list:
http://www.oletimebarbecue.com/raleigh.north.carolina.barbecue.catering.restaurant/
Greg, I’ll add it to the list.
Try Troutman’s BBQ on Church Street in Concord. Cooked onsite over hickory wood and chopped when you order. Served dry with a their own vinegar – black/cayene pepper sauce on the table. Excellent red slaw. Quality of meat rivals any cooked anywhere.
Carries on the cooking tradition of the old Red Pig – a five stool joint which used to be across the street in days gone by. Used to love to go in there as a boy especially during the winter. They cooked right there in front you as you sat at the counter and I never remember seeing the hand on the big dial thermometer on the wall drop below 90 degrees. Had to wait outside on the sidewalk to get a spot inside but the wait was always more that rewarded.
Lots of tradition infused into the Troutman’s fare.
Thanks T. Paine, your suggestion is good Common Sense befitting a guy named T. Paine. I’ll add Troutman’s to my list!
Living in SC everything is mustard based. Being from NC that is a big problem. Charlotte is a 45 minute drive. Anyone have a favorite in Charlotte?
I have never heard anyone make a real strong case for there being great barbecue in Charlotte, but I hope someone will correct me on that. If you have time to drive up the road a little ways to Salisbury, both Richard’s and Wink’s are worth a stop.
have you tried bibbs downtown in winston salem. people crave that place. interested to see your review.
I was at “Bib’s” back in the spring and found their pulled pork to be the best that I’d ever eaten to that point at a Q-joint (I’d only tried about 250 Q-joints in NC at that point – my total currently is 303 in NC and numerous outside of NC – I’ve had better since then). Another barbecue judge buddy of mine tried Bib’s during the summer and wasn’t impressed at all!
Porky – what’s your take???
Mike & Another_Q,
I’ve yet to try Bib’s. I’ll add it to my list and get there one of these days, but there are some other joints that earned their stripes many years before so I gotta prioritize!
Another_Q, I envy the amount of BBQ you consume, I can’t compete with you. That said, I would be surprised if there are 50 really good BBQ joints in the state, especially with only a few dozen actually cooking over wood, so I am not sure I want to visit 300+!
Porky – I’ve actually rated 46 Q-joints in North Carolina as “REAL GOOD”. Unlike some folks, I don’t discriminate against those establishments that don’t cook over wood/charcoal. I judge strictly on moistness, tenderness, and flavor. A bit of smoke is always good, but too much is a turn-off. I like the flavor of the pork to come through (without being dominated by sauce or smoke or heat or anything else!).
My visits to new Q-joints has become less frequent the last couple months, mostly because I am having difficulties finding “new” joints to try, as well as being involved with judging so many competitions. Still, I try!
You should add the Gastonia-style BBQ joints to your list. There used to be a half dozen restaurants with this style – sliced or minced pork sandwiches, with secret recipe slaw. The slaw is what makes it good. To my knowledge, only 2 restaurants remain – R.O.’s (http://www.rosbbq.com/whole.htm) and Black’s (both came from R.O. Black and his descendants).
Hey Tbone,
I”ve eaten at and rated five Gastonia Q-joints and wasn’t very impressed by ANY of them.
Alfred & Charlies; Hillybilly’s; Kyle Fletcher’s; Ray’s; and R.O.s were all marginal at best. Out of these 5, Ray’s Smokehouse and Grill (219 South Broad Street, Gastonia, NC 28052 – (704)867.4386) was the best with just a 3.5 (on my 1.0 – worst to 5.0 best rating scale). Ray’s Q was a bit dry yet fairly tender and a bit greasy, but the flavor was really good. Had a good rub and smoke taste with lots of bark chopped in.
R.O.s only rated a 2.0 as the sliced pork had NO flavor and the sauce and slaw were mixed together and pureed with a strong chili powder flavor – NOT GOOD!
The other three joints were in-between Ray’s and R.O.s as far as quality – tenderness, moistness, and flavor.
You gotta add the Bridges BBQ (Alston Bridges on HWY 18 and Red Bridges BBQ Lodge on HWY 74) in Shelby to your list. Two of the best in the state.
Absolutely, Miami Dan. Actually, Bridges is already on the list but I agree that the other Bridges needs to be there too. I’ll correct that soon when I add several others as well. Thanks!
Try “Tar Heel Q” hwy 64w Lexington
I sample BBQ on trips along the interstate btw Philadelphia and Florida. My current fav is Bill Ellis BBQ in Wilson, NC. Sweet and smokey whole hog where you can pick your own pieces off the pig if u want to! Only 7 mins off I-95. Also, on the western end, 12 Bones BBQ in Ashville may be the best I have ever had. Huge plates of Q and local boutique beers…doesn’t get much better.
Bill Ellis’ cooks with gas, so if you tasted smoke there, it was a lie of the mind. Eastern style barbecue shouldn’t be sweet, either.
If I may make a humble recommendation to your superb list of BBQ joints in NC, next time you’re out west, hit up The Woodlands in Blowing Rock. My sister went to App State, and took me to this joint when I was out visiting at Christmastime a few years back. It’s a fun, funky place with some damn good sweet tea and some really good BBQ (Western-style of course). I was raised in Wilmington and prefer Eastern-style, but am not so much of a puritan I can’t recognize some great BBQ regardless of the sauce. Keep up the good work!
Will, I am going out on a limb and trusting you on this recomendation despite the fact that The Woodlands serves “Home style Mexican food as well [as barbecue].” Have to say that makes me skeptical… and intrigued.
[...] The Joints [...]
I see on your list of Joints to visit you have Black’s and RO’s, both in Gastonia. The big thing at these is the slaw. Very different but very good. It is actually the sauce also. I prefer their sliced pork. A big seller at both of these is a slaw burger. Just their slaw on a bun that has been slightly grilled on a flattop. You just about don’t miss the meat. This is not your typical NC Barbeque, but is very good and don’t forget to take some slaw home and try with just about anything.
Looking for a good BBQ spot around the Wilmington area. Willing to drive a bit if worth the food. Any thoughts?
As a native Wilmingtonian, I never drove out of town for BBQ, but I always enjoyed Flip’s BBQ & Jackson’s Big Oak BBQ. Both are good, not great, but they’re commendable local joints that have been around for a good while (Flip’s since the ’50s, Jackson’s since the ’80s).
Jackson’s Big Oak BBQ: http://www.yelp.com/biz/jacksons-big-oak-barbecue-wilmington
Flip’s BBQ: http://www.yelp.com/biz/flips-barbeque-house-wilmington
Another couple Q-joints to check out in the Wilmington area include:
“Carolina BBQ” (two locations) 2307 N.College Road (Murraysville) and 1602 S.College Road (near Oleander Drive); also “Casey’s Buffet Barbecue & Home Cooking” 5559 Oleander Drive.
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These Q-joints are all buffets, and as most know the barbecue is usually kinda dry and chewy at buffets, but they are actually not bad.
[...] The Joints [...]
Doug Saul’s in Nashville is missing as a place to visit in the future.
I was last at Doug Saul’s in Nashville several years ago, but their Q is really pretty good. Had good moistness but was just a wee bit chewy. Excellent “Eastern” flavor. I gave it a 4.0 on my 1.0(bad) to 5.0(best) scale.
Some of the best hushpuppies (rings) that I’ve ever eaten! Good slaw and Brunswick stew too!
Thanks for the tip, wb247, and thanks for the second, BBQ.Tom
Enjoy Saul’s! It’s the last bastion of good ‘cue in the once-proud Nash-Rocky Mount area. I’m in the mountains these days, so I miss the good stuff!
Thanks for the great site..
Traveling down to Mrytle Beach from Jersey- any recommendations on where to stop along the way- I guess I’ll be traveling down I95. I’m looking for ribs more than “pulled pork”
@ A Peace of Mind. Ribs, eh? I’m sorry to report that NC is not a rib state so you need to detour to Memphis or something. Pulled pork–or “barbecue” as we call it down here–is the thing to try, so I encourage you to check that out and leave the ribs alone. That said, if you are desperate for ribs you may find some on the menu (or ask if they are not, as some joints save them for those who ask). Right off of I-95 is Ralph’s Barbecue in Weldon, which is a decent place. If you can spare a bigger side trip, head to Wilber’s in Goldsboro or Parker’s in Wilson, which are not too far off of I-95. Wilber’s has ribs if you ask and get there in time. Good luck.
best bbq near Wilmington?
Hey Courtney, check out the posts above from January 7, myself and another guy make a few recommendations for places to check out in and around Wilmington. My personal favorite is Flip’s, but mostly because I played t-ball for them for three years as a kid, and they’ve been around since the 40s.
Bill Spoon’s BBQ in Charlotte serves great eastern style BBQ. Family owned.
Also, Mac’s Speed Shop in Charlotte and Mooresville have great Q and award winning brisket.
Thanks Jim, I’ve added your recommendations to the list, though the idea of good Eastern-style BBQ in Charlotte sounds odd to me!
My wife and I will be spending a few days in Raleigh next week. It’s tough to get good bbq up here in NH. Any recommendations for bbq near Raleigh? Great and informative site. Thanks.
Hi John,
Raleigh itself is surprisingly weak for BBQ, but The Pit near downtown cooks over wood and serves some good stuff if you can handle the upscale atmosphere. If you get a chance to make it 45 mins or so from Raleigh, you can head west to Allen & Son in Chapel Hill or east to B’s in Greenville or other places list on this site… just depends how far you want to drive. Enjoy your visit and let me know where you head.
[...] The Joints В« BBQ Jew Avoid the BBQ and you'll eat well. C [Note: the restaurant location is out of business, but the Joint lives on as a … [...]
Great website. Y’all ever get to my home state of Alabama (you’d love it – ever see ‘My Cousin Vinny’?), y’oughta check out http://greentopbbq.com. Puts all these here other ‘uns to shame. Grew up there but lived out west (AZ, CA) most of my working life (if you can call working ‘life’?). No good BBQ there. Then to TX where they so dumb they call beef brisket BBQ, not to mention ribs the size of fence posts. Then to NC and boy was I lookin’ forward to real BBQ and you know what? They’s better Mexican food here than in TX and the BBQ is tol’able at best (one exception is Original Q Shack’s ribs). ‘Course as you say, we’re all victims of our upraisin’ (though you gents seem to have liberalized as much as my son-in-law born an’ raised 80 foot above Amsterdam Ave in NYC – he agrees with me about The Green Top). Check it out first chaynct (that’s ‘chance’ in Alabamese) y’all get. I have added your website to my Favorites.
Thanks for the note, John, although your spelling and grammar leave something to be desired (must be that famed Alabama education system!). Just kidding, of course, I really appreciate hearing from you. As for there being no good BBQ in NC, I am curious where you’ve been. There are a heck of a lot of mediocre places in NC so hope you’re making that statement as a white sauce loving Alabaman and not based on some gas-cooked pig at a so-so joint…
Hello Porky, sorry to take so long in replying but I took your pointed, tongue-in-wherever-it-was comments to heart, and thought I should do more research on NC ‘cue. First, however, I’ll respond to your Eastern NC (vinegarish) questions & comments:
1. my home state of Alabama is as proud of its educational system as it is of the exclusivity of its gene pool;
2. I have tried the BBQ at: Allen’s Chapel Hill; Jim’s Chapel Hill; Original Q Shack Durham; and several non-memorable places both east and west. None of it was really bad, but the only one worth going back to was Q Shack, especially for the ribs.
3a. WHITE SAUCE???!!! what the H*** is that? Never heard of it. I have tried the grayish-muckledum mustard stuff in South Carolina – but never again.
3b. Alabama BBQ is heavily smoked; the sauce is primarily vinegar-based but not as thin as eastern NC; it has some sweetness but not NEARLY as much as western BBQ. It usually comes with no sauce and is so good you don’t need to slather stuff on it. Usually I add a very little sauce and some dill pickle slices.
NEW RESEARCH: recently stopped at R&R BBQ in Concord (www.rrbbq.net).
Had the basic pork BBQ sandwich (large), and performed a dispassionate analysis of same. Here ’tis:
1. 2 sauces on the table; (a) vinegar-based with a little bite, very thin, & (b) smoky sweet, fairly thick;
2. choices of 2 slaws: White (standard fare) and Red (with a bit of the vinegar sauce in it);
3. Sandwich as delivered had plenty of meat but no significant smoky taste;
Using basic dispassionate analytical processes, I tried the following combinations:
a. plain sandwich with no refinements;
b. with vinegar-based sauce;
c. with smoky sweet sauce;
d. b plus red slaw;
e. b plus white slaw;
f. c plus red slaw;
g. c plus white slaw;
h. and some variations/combinations of all the above.
CONCLUSIONS:
A. best was a blend of the 2 sauces, heavy on (a). A liitle red slaw was OK but I prefer it on the side.
B. Nothing beat Alabama’s Green Top (I refer you once again to
http://greentopbbq.com. Take a look at the menu photos and I’ll guarantee you won’t see no white sauce).
Best regards,
John Dendy
CORRECTION: In CONCLUSIONS, I should have said “heavy on (b)” – the vinegar-based sauce. Darn! I knew i’d make a mistake sometime this year!
You should add Moore’s on 17 going south of New Bern and Smokey’s Shack on 54 in RTP to your list.
I grew up with Hursey’s in Burlington, so it is still my all-time favorite. Others I rank very highly are B’s in Greenville and Bunn’s in Windsor. I’m ashamed to admit, but I haven’t been to the very nearby A&M Grill, nor have I ever made the pilgrimage to Lexington.
Before I go to the trouble of plotting all these places you’ve listed on Google Maps, have you already done that?
Been to a few of BBQ joints in the Piedmont region you recommended (Stamey’s, Country BBQ, Lexington #1) and all have been fantastic.
Was wondering if you have been able to find any decent restaurants in the mountain region yet. I’ve had varying success so far (Bandanas BBQ in Boone was decent) but was wondering if you had some more suggestions.
Chris, in my admittedly limited experience hunting BBQ in the mountains of NC, I have not been impressed. That said, some people swear by 12 Bones in Asheville and I just got an email from someone extolling the virtues of Carolina Barbeque Chicken & Ribs and Pig Pickin’ Parlor in Newland. If yet to visit either… if you find good ‘cue there or elsewhere in the mountains, let me know!
Porker, I have considered plotting the joints on a Google map but have not gotten around to it. If you are so inclined, I’d be honored to have your help and give you the credit and a free BBQ Jew magnet for your efforts!
Porky:
Went back to the Hillsborough BBQ last night. The food is still substandard. This was my 2nd trip to the resturant and I was very disappointed.
I had the smoked turkey this time. The meat was extremely bland as well as the macaroni and cheese. The “smoke flavor was missing from the turkey. The “white”-cole slaw and hush puppys were good. There still was no old fashion potatoe salad. The best part of my visit was the improved draft beer selection.
I hope the owner’s and chef keep working at improving the food and bring it up to the same level as its partner resturant, the Wooden Nickel.
Rev Jimmy Joe
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In the mountains, I have been happy with 12 Bones in Asheville. It is a bit different (somewhat hippified) with a contemporary spin on traditional BBQ and sides. However, they do the modern interpretation fairly well (like The Pig in Chapel Hill and UNlike The Pit in Raleigh). Supposedly, Obama likes to drop in when he is in town.
For a point of reference, my favorites are Wilburs, Lexington #1, Stameys, and Hills.
We opened in April in Wake Forest. Come give us a try
I know this is sacrilege (then again the whole site kind of is) but the new Sonny’s location in South Charlotte on NC 51 is doing a good job with their Q. I’m interested to see how it would rate compared to what you have here.
A really out-of-the-way place in the mountains is Hawg Wild in Pisgah Forest. They claim to cook with wood, but from the size of their smoker, I’m guessing it’s really gas-with-wood-chips. Regardless, it’s amazingly good ‘cue for that far west. Stick with the eastern-style. Located on Highway 276 just before it dives into the National Forest.
As a student at UNC, I’ve been looking for a great place for ‘que around these parts. Thanks for the listing, I’ll have to go sample them.
In response to the very first comment, if you are coming from the North, my favorite place on the way to the beach is Currituck BBQ in Coinjock, right on NC 158. They have the best Hushpuppies I’ve ever consumed.
Thanks TarHeelAlex, make sure you check out Allen & Son on the very northern edge of Chapel Hill on Highway 86. You really need go no further than that, as it’s among the best in the state.
Dear BBQ Jew –
Sorry about the short notice, but I will be in Raleigh tomorrow (visiting from Chicago with another person from Chicago and one from NY). Coincidentally, we are all Jewish,
Anyhow, we will be driving from the Raleigh airport to Greenville, NC mid-day tomorrow and were wondering if you had any suggested restaurants to visit, preferably along Route 264. Please let me know via e-mail at rbronstein@thesciongroup.com.
Thanks a lot!
Rob
Rob, I have never eaten there, but will be in Greenville next week and plan to do so… try “B’s BBQ”, which has been highly recommended to me. It meets all of my personal specs for a great BBQ joint – namely,
1. it’s in a shack,
2. the inside walls are greasy,
3. the meat is great, and
4. you really don’t want to go to the restroom there.
And by the way, it’s on B’s BBQ Road. Any place that has its own road can’t be too bad – I hope.
When 264 turns north, continue toward town on Stantonsburg Rd; turn left at the next intersection (B’s BBQ Rd) and go a mile or maybe 1.5. Good luck, and let me know whether I ought to go there myself.
Great place, just make sure you get there EARLY!!! As once they sell out they close! Usually closed by 2pm. True stick-burner! Sauce on the tables is in Crown Royal bottles. This is the only Q-joint in NC that I know of that DOESN’T have a telephone!
Good luck!
We’re driving south on a Tuesday from Danville, VA through NC via Routes 29 and 220 (through Greensboro, Asheboro, Rockingham) on our way to Florida. Any good ‘cue available on that route? Thanks.
Get off 29 in Reidsville and go to the original Short Sugar’s for some of NC best BBQ
A few more suggestions, Gary… Stamey’s in Greensboro, Blue Mist in Asheboro, or a side trip to Lexington if you have the time…
Thanks for the suggestions guys. Sounds like there’s not too many options – especially in the southern part of the state. On the trip back we are gonna drive through Lexington, so that may be where I have to count on my NC ‘cue experience.
Check us out
check us on yelp
I am going to be in concord nc, any good joints close to there without having to make the trip to Lexington? I won’t have a car and I don’t want to assume the person I am staying with wants to drive that far for ‘cue. Thanks!
Some Charlotte area mentions/grades from a very picky perspective:
Mac’s Speed Shop: Awesome restaurant in general (good atmosphere, good drink selection and prices, creative dishes), but the brisket was n’t very good. Thick, sweet, kethcupy sauce to try to drown out the poorly-cooked meat. Brisket ain’t easy to cook but I expected better. I’ve heard the pulled pork is good but the brisket gets a C-.
Bill Spoon’s: outstanding eastern. You want to go to there. Been open since the early 60′s, authentic motley decor, great que, tea, and hushpuppies (though they don’t bring them out automatically, a pardonable sin). The slaw was only average but a small dent on an outstanding meal overall. A-.
Lancaster’s (Mooresville): NASCAR Gone Wild. Yes, that is an entire school bus inside the restaurant, and yes, you must eat in it (you know you want to anyway). The que and hushpuppies are good but not great. The tea is quite good. B-.
Porky,
You doubted me on Bill Spoons! Glad you enjoyed. We miss Bill who passed a few years ago.
Too bad you didn’t care for the brisker at Mac’s. They have won awards for it.
I have been hitting Blue Mist outside of Asheboro. Great pork. Love the atmosphere.
Porky, or others,
Going to be in Lexington this week for 24 hours and going to try to hit 3 joints. What are the must haves if I can’t have it all?
Honeymonk’s (Lexington BBQ #1), Smiley’s, BBQ Center…in my humble opinion. Been to the first two many times, and the third a couple. All are really good. Say hi to Tina at Smiley’s (she knows my whole, 7-person band by name, and we only show up once or twice a year).
Cool, thanks John. Had just noticed Smiley’s on the joints list tonight, somehow overlooked them before. Lex #1 and BBQ Center were high on my list so good to know they are worth it. Will add Smiley’s to the tour as well.
Any thoughts on one East Carolina joint to go to? Have visited Wilber’s and Grady’s before and would like to try something new. Skylight maybe?
B’s has really fallen. The best Q in the state is at Oakwood in Catherine Lake. It is only available Friday and Saturday.
12 Bones has the best ribs in the state.
Blackboards in Conetoe has good Q, I vote it better than B’s. It almost rivals Wilbur but I am not sure if they have it everyday.
If there isn’t a wood pile out back, its not BBQ
Check out Oakwood BBQ In Richlands area near Catherine Lake. Much better than Smokehouse in Holly Ridge
Anyone ever had Bart’s Old North State BBQ off Henderson St. in Chapel Hill? http://www.yelp.com/biz/barts-old-north-state-barbecue-chapel-hill
Had a friend tell me about a “new bbq place in an alley off Henderson” last night, I did some internet research and assume he’s talking about Bart’s. Anyone know if he has another place in mind? Anyone been to Bart’s? Worth a trip down from Durham!?
Thanks, fellow bbq lovers!
As a Greensboro resident and well traveled BBQ junkie I have to disagree about Stamey’s being an A rated joint. They have been running on a old reputation for at least 10 years! Too bad…
Check out Ron’s Barn in Coats. The BBQ is usually great and the other items on the buffett are traditional southern sides along with some seafood. Price is very reasonable as well!
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Give John Boy’s BBQ and seafood in Elkin, NC a try. Best BBQ we get around Wilkes County.
Where is Parker’s in Wilson? So well run, so delicious, for so many years.
look up at the skies (google chemtrails) fake clouds blocking the sunlight… also america and england put chemicals in tap water and food to dumb down population… this is fact…. sorry to burst your bubble.. please research everything said
David McGray, what are you smoking? Doesn’t seem to be pork!
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