Unearth The Voyage
When October rolls around and the air turns crisp, nothing beats piling your plate high with smoky pulled pork, golden fried chicken, and all the Southern sides you can handle. North Carolina is famous for its barbecue traditions, and the state’s buffet-style joints take comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you prefer vinegar-based eastern-style BBQ or the sweeter Lexington approach, these spots offer unlimited helpings of fall’s finest flavors that’ll warm you right up.
Casey’s Buffet & Barbecue — Wilmington
Locals have been flocking to this Wilmington favorite for years, and once you taste the spread, you’ll understand why. Casey’s masterfully blends soul food with classic BBQ across a generous buffet line that seems to go on forever. The pulled pork is tender and smoky, while the fried chicken comes out crispy every single time.
October brings out the best in their comfort sides—creamy mac and cheese, perfectly seasoned collards, and fluffy hushpuppies that practically melt in your mouth. The dessert station offers sweet finishes like banana pudding and peach cobbler. Families love the relaxed vibe and the fact that everyone can find something they enjoy without breaking the bank.
Fuller’s Old Fashion BBQ — Fayetteville
Since 1941, Fuller’s has been serving up authentic eastern-style barbecue that respects tradition down to the last detail. Whole hogs are cooked low and slow over oak and hickory until the meat practically falls apart with a fork. Even in buffet format, the quality never wavers—something rare in all-you-can-eat establishments.
The fall-off-the-bone ribs are legendary among regulars, and the crispy fried chicken offers a perfect contrast to the tender pork. With over fifteen vegetable sides rotating daily, you’ll find everything from butter beans to fried okra. The no-frills atmosphere keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on the food itself and the flavors that have made this place a Fayetteville institution.
Ralph’s Barbecue — Weldon
Operating since 1952, Ralph’s has perfected the art of eastern-style BBQ with a signature vinegar tang that cuts through the richness of the pork. The chopped meat practically melts on your tongue, delivering that authentic North Carolina experience people drive hours to enjoy. Cool October weather makes the warm, smoky flavors even more satisfying.
Hushpuppies arrive golden and crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for soaking up extra sauce. The fried chicken is another star, seasoned just right and cooked to crispy perfection. Homemade sides like collard greens and creamy mac and cheese round out the spread, making every plate feel like a Sunday dinner with family.
Grandsons Buffet — Hope Mills
More than just another buffet spot, Grandsons turns Sunday dinner into an everyday celebration with its generous spread. Pulled pork BBQ sits alongside perfectly fried chicken, creating a protein paradise for meat lovers. The family-run atmosphere makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or visiting for the first time.
Hearty side dishes change with the seasons, but classics like green beans, mashed potatoes, and candied yams are always available. Homemade desserts provide sweet endings—think warm cobblers and creamy banana pudding. In fall, the entire spread feels extra comforting, like gathering around grandma’s table when the weather turns cool and appetites grow bigger.
Parker’s BBQ — Greenville
While not branded strictly as a buffet, Parker’s offers something even better: unlimited refills on their famous whole-hog BBQ and sides. This gives you all the freedom of a buffet with the quality of made-to-order food. The smoky pork arrives at your table hot and fresh, seasoned with decades of expertise.
October brings out rotating sides that complement the meat beautifully—think Brunswick stew, coleslaw, and cornbread. Locals swear by the consistency here; you’ll get the same excellent meal whether you visit in spring or fall. The relaxed service style means you can take your time, enjoy seconds (or thirds), and truly savor the experience without feeling rushed through a buffet line.
Carolina BBQ — Lexington-Style
Lexington-style BBQ brings a sweeter, tomato-based sauce to the table, creating a different flavor profile than the vinegar-heavy eastern approach. Carolina BBQ masters this style with generous servings of pulled pork that’s tender, juicy, and coated in that signature red sauce. The unlimited service model means you never have to worry about running out.
Red slaw provides a tangy crunch that balances the richness of the meat perfectly. Hushpuppies and baked beans round out the traditional sides. While it might not call itself a buffet in the traditional sense, the “without limits” philosophy gives you that same freedom to explore and enjoy. Fall weather makes the hearty portions even more appealing.
King’s Restaurant — Kinston
A true Kinston landmark, King’s has been smoking whole hogs over hickory and oak for generations, creating that authentic eastern-style flavor locals grew up loving. The buffet line showcases Southern favorites prepared with care and attention to detail. Crispy fried chicken provides a satisfying crunch alongside the tender, smoky pork.
The variety of vegetable sides changes daily but always includes classics like green beans, sweet potato casserole, and stewed tomatoes. What sets King’s apart is the commitment to tradition—recipes passed down through families and cooking methods that refuse to take shortcuts. October visitors appreciate the warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like coming home after a long day in the cool autumn air.
Brickhouse Grill & Catering — Concord
Housed in a beautifully renovated historic building, Brickhouse combines old-world charm with serious barbecue skills. The daily-changing buffet keeps things interesting, but the signature pulled pork—smoked low and slow—remains a constant star. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of smoke, tenderness, and flavor that makes North Carolina BBQ legendary.
Creamy mac and cheese is a crowd favorite, offering comfort in every forkful. Fried catfish adds variety for seafood lovers, while rotating sides ensure you’ll discover something new with each visit. The historic setting creates a unique dining atmosphere that makes meals feel special rather than routine. Cool October evenings make this warm, inviting space even more appealing.
Robbins Nest — Selma
This down-home treasure serves slow-cooked pork shoulder that’s been bathed in tangy Eastern Carolina vinegar sauce until it reaches peak tenderness. Robbins Nest keeps things simple and authentic, focusing on flavors that have satisfied generations of North Carolinians. The casual atmosphere makes everyone feel like part of the family.
Sides like butter beans and stewed okra bring traditional Southern cooking to life with proper seasoning and care. Homemade desserts steal the show at the end—warm cobblers and flaky pies that taste like grandma made them herself. Fall visitors appreciate the hearty portions and the way the food warms you from the inside out when temperatures start dropping outside.
Low and Slow Smokehouse — Smithfield
True to its name, Low and Slow takes time to create barbecue perfection, smoking meats for hours until they develop deep, complex flavors. The buffet offers pulled pork, St. Louis ribs, and smoked chicken—all cooked with patience and expertise. What makes this spot unique is the addition of Texas-style brisket, giving fans of different regional styles something to celebrate.
A salad bar provides lighter options for those who want balance with their barbecue feast. The ribs are especially popular, with meat that slides right off the bone. Modern touches blend with traditional techniques, creating a dining experience that respects barbecue’s past while embracing new ideas. October’s cooler weather makes the smoky aromas even more irresistible.
Carolina Smoke Barbeque Grill — Morganton
Carolina Smoke brings unexpected twists to traditional barbecue, combining pulled pork with Texas-style brisket for fans of both regional styles. Mountain trout adds a local touch that reflects Morganton’s geography and culinary traditions. This creative approach keeps the buffet exciting while still honoring North Carolina’s barbecue roots.
Smoked jalapeño mac and cheese delivers creamy comfort with a spicy kick that surprises and delights adventurous eaters. Traditional sides balance the bolder flavors, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the table. The modern atmosphere feels fresh and inviting, attracting both longtime barbecue lovers and newcomers exploring North Carolina’s food scene. Fall brings out the best in these hearty, warming dishes that satisfy big appetites.
Classic Family Restaurant — Denton
While not strictly a BBQ-only establishment, Classic Family Restaurant earns its place on this list with an all-you-can-eat spread that includes plenty of smoked meats alongside fried favorites. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for groups with different tastes and preferences. Smoked meats provide that barbecue satisfaction, while other options ensure picky eaters find happiness too.
Southern sides hit all the comfort notes—creamy potatoes, seasoned vegetables, and warm cornbread. Fried items add variety and crunch to balance the tender smoked meats. Cooler weather makes the hearty portions especially appealing, and the unlimited format means nobody leaves hungry. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality and the welcoming vibe that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
