Unearth The Voyage
When it comes to Southern comfort food, North Carolina has it down to an art form. From slow-cooked barbecue to flaky biscuits and buttery pie crusts, the state’s small towns are filled with eateries that feel like home. Here are 12 charming North Carolina towns where the food is as warm as the welcome.
1. Lexington – The Barbecue Capital
Known as the Barbecue Capital of North Carolina, Lexington is a pilgrimage site for lovers of smoky, tangy pulled pork. With over a dozen renowned barbecue joints, each corner of this Piedmont town offers a new savory experience.
One must-visit is Lexington Barbecue, a local favorite since 1962, where hickory-smoked pork shoulders are served with hushpuppies and slaw. The scent alone draws in visitors from miles away.
While the barbecue reigns supreme, the warm community vibe makes every meal feel like a family gathering. Each bite tells a story of tradition and flavor that defines this charming town.
2. Mount Airy – Mayberry on a Plate
Step into nostalgia in Mount Airy, the real-life inspiration for Mayberry, complete with warm, comforting eats. At Snappy Lunch, the famous pork chop sandwich has captured hearts and taste buds.
This sandwich, featured on the Travel Channel, encapsulates small-town America with its simple yet flavorful appeal. Afterward, Walker’s Soda Fountain serves homemade desserts that are the cherry on top of your culinary journey.
With charming streets and friendly locals, Mount Airy welcomes each visitor with open arms and hearty plates. It’s not just a meal; it’s a step back in time where food and memory blend seamlessly.
3. Hillsborough – Where Farm Meets Table
Hillsborough pairs historic charm with innovative culinary delights. This town is a haven for farm-to-table enthusiasts seeking fresh, locally sourced comfort food.
The Wooden Nickel Pub and Panciuto are prime examples, offering dishes like fried chicken sandwiches and seasonal Southern sides that highlight local produce.
The vibrant farmers market and picturesque main street add to Hillsborough’s appeal, creating a perfect backdrop for a delightful culinary expedition. Whether you’re a foodie or a history buff, this town offers a feast for the senses in every way.
4. New Bern – Coastal Classics
New Bern, nestled between the Neuse and Trent Rivers, serves up coastal comfort with every bite. Morgan’s Tavern & Grill offers shrimp and grits that embody the essence of Southern coastal cooking.
For those with a seafood craving, Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant provides mouthwatering crab cakes alongside stunning waterfront views.
New Bern’s culinary scene is rich with fresh, flavorful seafood that captures the spirit of the coast. Each dish is a testament to the town’s commitment to quality and hospitality, making every meal a memorable experience.
5. Sylva – Mountain Soul Food
Tucked in the Smoky Mountains, Sylva shines as a haven for rustic comfort fare. At The Coffee Shop, locals and visitors alike savor hearty breakfasts that start the day off right.
For a gourmet twist on Appalachian classics, Lulu’s on Main offers a menu that delights the senses with innovative takes on traditional dishes.
Sylva’s culinary offerings reflect the soul of the mountains, with flavors that are both familiar and exciting. Each meal is an invitation to relax and enjoy the slower pace of mountain life.
6. Hendersonville – Apple Country Eats
In the heart of apple country, Hendersonville’s eateries celebrate the region’s abundant produce. Moose Café is a must-visit for fried chicken paired perfectly with scratch-made biscuits.
For dessert lovers, McFarlan Bakery offers apple pie that has delighted locals since 1930, a sweet testament to the town’s culinary heritage.
Hendersonville marries comfort food with local ingredients, creating dishes that are as heartwarming as they are delicious. Each bite tells a story of the region’s rich agricultural roots, inviting you to savor the flavors of home.
7. Beaufort – Lowcountry with a Twist
Beaufort brings a twist to Lowcountry cuisine with its coastal delights. Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant & Pub serves creamy shrimp and grits that capture the essence of Southern comfort.
Beaufort Grocery Company adds Southern bistro flair in a historic setting, offering dishes that are both refined and comforting.
Set against breathtaking harbor views, Beaufort’s culinary scene is a testament to the town’s rich maritime history. Each meal promises a delightful journey through flavors that are both familiar and inventive.
8. Shelby – Livermush and Barbecue Glory
In Shelby, tradition meets taste with the town’s signature dish: livermush. While it might sound unconventional, it represents pure North Carolina tradition.
Enjoy it crispy and fried for breakfast at LilyBean Coffee & Creamery. For classic chopped barbecue, Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge has been a local legend since the 1940s.
Shelby’s culinary offerings blend history and flavor, inviting you to explore dishes that have been loved for generations. Each bite of livermush or barbecue tells a story of community and heritage.
9. Pittsboro – Southern Comfort Meets Creativity
Pittsboro’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Southern roots and innovative twists. At The Root Cellar Café & Catering, local produce transforms into hearty, soulful plates.
Oakleaf offers a creative approach to comfort food, redefining traditional dishes with modern flair. Each plate is a masterpiece that invites diners to experience the familiar in a new way.
This charming town’s food reflects a spirit of creativity and hospitality, making it a must-visit for those seeking something both comforting and unique.
10. Waynesville – Down-Home in the Smokies
Waynesville invites you to enjoy mountain hospitality and hearty fare. The Sweet Onion serves comfort dishes with a touch of elegance, making every meal memorable.
For those craving Italian comfort, Angelo’s Family Pizza & Pasta provides a cozy mountain town setting that feels like home.
Waynesville’s culinary offerings reflect the warmth and generosity of its people, with dishes that stick to your ribs and speak to the soul. Each bite is a reminder of the simple joys of good food shared with good company.
11. Edenton – Coastal Comfort and Colonial Charm
Edenton, one of North Carolina’s oldest towns, combines history with hearty eats. Waterman’s Grill offers seafood classics that embody coastal comfort.
At 309 Bistro & Spirits, upscale comfort food like shrimp and grits or pimento cheese burgers add a modern twist to traditional flavors.
Edenton’s culinary scene is steeped in history, with each dish telling a tale of time-honored recipes and local pride. The charming streets and historic backdrop create a dining experience that is both rich and rewarding.
12. Salisbury – Fried Chicken Royalty
Salisbury is a haven for fried chicken enthusiasts, with local legends like Hap’s Grill and Richard’s Bar-B-Q leading the way. Their hot dogs, burgers, and barbecue are celebrated across the state.
College Barbecue has been perfecting Southern fried chicken for generations, offering a taste that feels like home.
Salisbury’s food scene is a testament to its rich culinary tradition, with each dish crafted with care and passion. From crispy chicken to smoky barbecue, every bite is a nod to Southern hospitality and flavor.
