Unearth The Voyage
North Carolina offers a rich tapestry of barbecue joints that often fly under the radar but serve unforgettable flavors. These hidden gems demonstrate that culinary excellence often resides off the beaten path. Explore these 18 spots that not only preserve tradition but outshine many renowned establishments.
1. B’s Barbecue (Greenville)
No phone, no website, just pure barbecue bliss. B’s Barbecue in Greenville is a family-run establishment that embodies simplicity. Their whole-hog barbecue is cooked the Eastern style, ensuring a tender, smoky flavor that locals rave about.
Expect long lines and an early close, as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The rustic setting adds to the charm, creating an authentic experience for barbecue lovers.
With its unassuming presence, B’s is a testament to the idea that less is more, focusing purely on delivering unforgettable tastes.
2. Sam Jones BBQ (Winterville)
Sam Jones BBQ may have a modern look, but its heart is steeped in tradition. Nestled in Winterville, this spot honors the Eastern-NC whole-hog method, offering pork that’s chopped, not pulled.
Their vinegar sauce is a sharp, clean complement to the smoky meat. It’s a place where accessibility meets authenticity, making it a gem for both locals and newcomers.
Sam Jones BBQ represents a bridge between old and new, providing a warm, inviting space with serious barbecue pedigree.
3. Skylight Inn BBQ (Ayden)
Founded in 1947, Skylight Inn BBQ is a legend in Ayden, North Carolina. The building, topped with a Capitol dome replica, hints at its landmark status.
Known for some of the purest whole-hog barbecue in the state, this institution invites visitors to plan their journeys around its flavorful offerings. A vinegar-based sauce adds a zing to the tender pork, creating a meal to remember.
Skylight Inn is not just a restaurant; it’s a pilgrimage for barbecue enthusiasts seeking genuine, time-honored flavors.
4. Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge (Shelby)
Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge in Shelby is a revered spot, serving Western-NC style barbecue. Pork shoulder takes center stage, complemented by a tomato-tinged sauce that adds a sweet, tangy layer.
Steeped in history, the lodge has been serving since 1946, maintaining a no-frills atmosphere that barbecue purists appreciate.
For those who lean towards the Western style, Red Bridges offers authenticity in every bite, set in a charming lodge that feels like a step back in time.
5. Parker’s Barbecue (Wilson)
Parker’s Barbecue in Wilson is a family-owned institution, mastering whole-hog barbecue since 1946. This spot exemplifies East Carolina style with its savory vinegar sauce drizzled over tender, chopped pork.
The laid-back environment welcomes families, friends, and travelers seeking reliable, unpretentious barbecue. The community feel is palpable, making each visit warm and welcoming.
Expect consistently excellent barbecue and traditional sides, served in a setting that feels like home for regulars and newcomers alike.
6. Grady’s Barbecue (Dudley)
Tucked away in Dudley, Grady’s Barbecue is a hidden treasure. The modest setting belies the big flavors achieved through whole-hog smoking over oak and hickory.
This rural gem is the kind of place you discover once and return to time and again. The unassuming atmosphere enhances the experience, focusing attention on the food.
Grady’s embodies the spirit of genuine, small-town barbecue, where locals and visitors alike gather for a taste of perfection.
7. Wilber’s Barbecue (Goldsboro)
Wilber’s Barbecue in Goldsboro is where tradition thrives. The brick building and vintage signage signal a no-fuss approach that prioritizes flavor above all.
Known for classic whole-hog cooking over oak coals, the experience is all about genuine taste and minimal distractions. Its roadside location adds to the allure, drawing in those who appreciate high standards in a rustic setting.
This spot is a genuine experience, serving barbecue that’s rich in both history and flavor, perfect for those who cherish authenticity.
8. Little Richard’s BBQ (Clemmons)
In the heart of Clemmons, Little Richard’s BBQ offers a delightful taste of Lexington-style pork shoulder. The meat is chopped slowly and paired with signature red slaw and “dip”-style sauce.
The spot eschews hype, focusing on delivering a true representation of Western-NC barbecue. The nostalgic decor adds a cozy, welcoming vibe.
For those seeking an authentic barbecue experience without the frills, Little Richard’s is a must-visit destination that delivers on flavor and tradition.
9. Stamey’s (Greensboro)
Established in 1930, Stamey’s in Greensboro is a beloved local favorite. The hickory-smoked pork shoulder is a testament to its long-standing reputation for quality.
Offering a no-frills dining experience, Stamey’s remains a true pillar of Piedmont-style barbecue. The tomato-tinged vinegar sauce complements the tender, smoky meat perfectly.
For those in search of legacy and tradition, Stamey’s provides an authentic taste of North Carolina’s barbecue heritage in a welcoming atmosphere.
10. Old Hampton Store & Barbeque (Linville)
Hidden in the mountains of Linville, Old Hampton Store & Barbeque combines history with culinary excellence. Originally a general store from 1920, it now serves hickory-smoked meats.
The unique setting offers a scenic backdrop to the delicious barbecue, making each visit memorable. The authenticity of the location enriches the experience, merging past and present.
This spot is perfect for those who appreciate both history and flavor, providing a dining experience that feels both nostalgic and special.
11. Bunn’s Barbecue (Windsor)
Situated in a former gas station, Bunn’s Barbecue in Windsor serves classic Eastern-style whole-hog barbecue. The inclusion of cornbread and vinegar slaw completes the experience.
The roadside ambiance adds to the charm, making it a true “hole in the wall” find. Locals and travelers alike enjoy the laid-back vibe and rich flavors.
Bunn’s offers a quintessential barbecue experience that captures the heart of Eastern-NC barbecue, welcoming all who venture in with open arms and delightful dishes.
12. Jon G’s Barbecue (Peachland)
Jon G’s Barbecue in Peachland stands out with its brisket and pure smoke flavor, although it’s only open certain hours. The anticipation adds to the allure.
Visitors should be ready to wait, but the reward is worth it. The brisket is celebrated for its tenderness, offering a melt-in-the-mouth experience.
This spot is a perfect example of how patience paired with culinary skill can lead to an unforgettable meal. Jon G’s is a must-visit for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
13. Speedy’s Barbecue, Inc. (Lexington)
In Lexington, where barbecue is a way of life, Speedy’s Barbecue, Inc. holds its own. Known for chopped pork shoulder, red slaw, and tomato-vinegar dip, it encapsulates the region’s signature style.
The relaxed environment and authentic flavors create a beloved local experience. Each visit is a taste of tradition, steeped in the rich history of Lexington barbecue.
Speedy’s offers a genuine taste of the area’s barbecue culture, making it a staple for both residents and visitors alike.
14. Hursey’s Bar-B-Q (Burlington)
Born in a backyard in the 1940s, Hursey’s Bar-B-Q in Burlington has grown into a local legend. Their hickory-smoked pork shoulders are a testament to their enduring quality.
With a bit more space than the tiniest shacks, it retains an authentic feel, ensuring each meal is an experience. The no-nonsense approach to barbecue keeps patrons returning.
Hursey’s stands as a beacon of Western-NC barbecue tradition, offering an authentic, flavorful experience that’s deeply rooted in history.
15. Picnic (Durham)
Picnic in Durham is a newer addition to the NC barbecue scene but is deeply rooted in tradition. It offers a slightly modern spin while honoring classic techniques.
Recognized among essential barbecue joints in North Carolina, Picnic provides a space that’s both inviting and innovative. The experience melds new ideas with time-honored flavors.
For those seeking a fresh take yet rooted in authenticity, Picnic offers the best of both worlds, serving up barbecue that respects the past and embraces the future.
16. Fuzzy’s Bar-B-Que (Madison)
Opened in 1954, Fuzzy’s Bar-B-Que in Madison retains an old-diner feel, offering a nostalgic atmosphere with its Lexington-style barbecue. The chopped pork and red slaw are local favorites.
Small-town charm and big flavors define this spot. The unpretentious decor adds to the welcoming ambiance, making it a community staple.
For those who appreciate a trip down memory lane with their meal, Fuzzy’s provides a delightful experience that combines history with culinary excellence.
17. The Redneck BBQ Lab (Benson)
The Redneck BBQ Lab in Benson mixes competition-style barbecue with traditional flavors, creating a unique dining experience. Brisket and ribs shine, drawing in barbecue aficionados.
Despite its unconventional approach, it remains a small, welcoming spot that rivals larger restaurants. The flavors are bold, yet the setting is intimate and inviting.
For those who seek a twist on tradition with an emphasis on quality meat and smoke, The Redneck BBQ Lab offers an exciting culinary adventure.
18. Allen & Son Barbecue (Chapel Hill)
Allen & Son Barbecue in Chapel Hill artfully blends Eastern and Piedmont styles, creating a distinctive offering that many tourists miss. The intimate setting adds charm to the experience.
Hidden just off the beaten path, it’s a favorite for locals seeking authentic flavors. The wood-smoked meats and traditional sides complete the meal.
For those who appreciate a “town spot” feel coupled with genuine barbecue, Allen & Son delivers a taste of North Carolina’s diverse culinary landscape.
