North Carolina BBQ Joints: 5 That Get It Right and 5 That Miss the Mark

North Carolina is famed for its unique barbecue traditions, with various joints offering regional specialties. However, not all BBQ establishments hit the mark.

This guide explores five joints that excel in delivering authentic, mouth-watering barbecue experiences and five that fall short, according to diners and critics alike. Discover where to savor the state’s finest, and where the experience might leave something to be desired.

1. Lexington Barbecue in Lexington

Known as “The Hump,” Lexington Barbecue stands as a cornerstone of North Carolina’s barbecue scene. Established in 1962, it continues to serve as a beacon for those seeking traditional Piedmont-style barbecue. Customers relish their vinegar-based red slaw and hickory-smoked pork shoulder, a combination that encapsulates the essence of Lexington BBQ.

The interior, filled with rustic charm, complements the hearty, flavorful dishes. Diners frequently commend its consistency and quality, making it a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Lexington Barbecue promises a culinary experience steeped in tradition.

2. Skylight Inn BBQ in Ayden

Skylight Inn BBQ is a celebrated icon in Ayden known for its whole hog barbecue, a style deeply rooted in Eastern North Carolina’s culinary heritage. Since 1947, this family-operated establishment has garnered acclaim for its authentic approach, preserving age-old smoking techniques.

Inside, the aroma of smoked pork greets visitors, while the crispy pork skin adds a unique texture and flavor. The addition of cornmeal cake as a side is a tradition that patrons enjoy.

Its reputation as a “temple of BBQ” is well-deserved, drawing visitors from near and far. The dedication to authenticity is palpable, earning it a spot on the barbecue pilgrimage map for many.

3. Allen & Son Barbecue in Chapel Hill

Allen & Son Barbecue captures the heart of North Carolina’s diverse barbecue culture, offering a blend of Eastern and Western styles. Found just outside Chapel Hill, it charms visitors with its unassuming, vintage ambiance.

The hickory-smoked pork, seasoned to perfection, reflects a commitment to quality that patrons appreciate. Its tangy vinegar-based sauce enhances the flavors, leaving diners craving more.

Regulars often highlight its homemade desserts, like the pecan pie, which perfectly conclude the smoky meal. Allen & Son remains a beloved staple, praised for both its food and atmosphere.

4. Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge in Shelby

Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge, serving since 1946, is a Shelby institution famed for its slow-cooked, pit-smoked barbecue. The family-run establishment exudes warmth and hospitality, inviting guests to enjoy their delectable offerings.

Their signature style, featuring a tangy vinegar-based sauce, complements the tender pork, drawing in fans from across the region. The welcoming environment and friendly service enhance the dining experience.

5. Sam Jones BBQ in Greenville

Sam Jones BBQ brings a modern twist to traditional barbecue, honoring its roots while appealing to contemporary tastes. Situated in Greenville, the restaurant is known for its devotion to the whole hog method, a nod to the Jones family’s storied barbecue lineage.

The inviting space encourages communal dining, fostering a sense of togetherness. The pork is celebrated for its rich flavor and perfectly crisped skin, paired with scratch-made sides that enhance the meal.

Patrons often describe their experiences as “a delightful blend of history and innovation.” Sam Jones BBQ stands out as a beacon for both tradition and creativity in the barbecue world.

6. Smithfield’s Chicken ’N Bar-B-Q

Smithfield’s Chicken ’N Bar-B-Q is a regional chain that elicits mixed reactions from patrons. Renowned for its quick service, it offers a convenient option for those on the go, but its barbecue often divides opinion.

Critics argue that the standardized preparation lacks the soul of traditional, local joints. While some appreciate its fried chicken, calling it a highlight, others find the barbecue offerings underwhelming.

The chain’s widespread presence makes it accessible, yet it misses the mark for those seeking authentic, slow-cooked barbecue. Regulars may enjoy the consistency, but purists often look elsewhere for a more genuine experience.

7. City Barbeque

City Barbeque, a regional chain, makes a mark with its extensive menu, though it may not satisfy BBQ purists. While the brisket and ribs are often praised for their flavor, the lack of focus on traditional North Carolina styles stands out.

Its modern setting and varied offerings appeal to a broad audience, yet locals seeking a true taste of NC barbecue might be disappointed. The sauces range widely in flavor, offering something for everyone, but missing a regional identity.

While City Barbeque provides a pleasant dining experience, it tends to stray from the soulful, local barbecue traditions the state is renowned for.

8. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

With a presence nationwide, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit brings familiarity, yet struggles with delivering the distinct essence of North Carolina barbecue. Known for its smoky brisket and pulled pork, the chain’s offerings are often seen as generic.

While some patrons enjoy the large portions and affordable prices, others critique the lack of authenticity in taste and preparation. The uniformity of its dishes doesn’t reflect the diverse and rich barbecue traditions found locally.

Dickey’s provides a convenient meal for those not seeking a regional experience, but it’s not the spot for purists craving true North Carolina barbecue flavors.

9. Hursey’s Bar-B-Q in Burlington

Once a local favorite, Hursey’s Bar-B-Q now faces criticism for its inconsistency. Located in Burlington, the restaurant has been a staple for decades, but recent reviews suggest a decline in the quality that once defined it.

Diners have noted variability in both flavor and service, leading to mixed experiences. Some still find satisfaction in their smoky pork and classic sides, while others seek improvements to recapture its past glory.

Hursey’s remains a nostalgic spot for many, but it requires renewed focus to regain its esteemed status among North Carolina’s barbecue elite.

10. King’s BBQ & Chicken

Once a household name in Eastern North Carolina, King’s BBQ & Chicken has struggled in recent years to live up to its legacy. Known for decades for its vinegar-based pork and family-style meals, recent reviews point to uneven quality and a more “cafeteria-style” feel that doesn’t capture the smoky authenticity diners expect.

While it remains open and accessible, many BBQ enthusiasts feel that King’s has lost the spark that once made it a destination. Loyal locals still stop in for nostalgia and fried chicken plates, but for visitors chasing the best of NC barbecue, it often falls short.