The 28 best BBQ joints in NC, according to Reddit

North Carolina is a barbecue lover’s paradise, where smoky aromas and rich flavors tell a story of tradition, pride, and culinary craftsmanship. From the tangy vinegar-based sauces of the east to the savory, tomato-kissed styles of the west, the state offers a mouthwatering array of BBQ styles to satisfy any palate.

Whether you’re a pulled pork purist, a fan of brisket, or someone who dreams of ribs slathered in sauce, North Carolina’s barbecue scene promises unforgettable bites at every corner. In this guide, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey through Redditors’ favorite BBQ spots in the Tar Heel State, where every plate comes with a side of Southern hospitality.

The Best BBQ in Charlotte

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When it comes to barbecue, Charlotte boasts a vibrant scene that combines Southern tradition with creative flair. The Queen City has something to satisfy every barbecue lover.

Midwood Smokehouse

When discussing the best barbecue spots in Charlotte, Reddit users frequently mention Midwood Smokehouse. This beloved restaurant is known for its dedication to traditional barbecue techniques, including smoking meats over North Carolina hickory wood. Diners rave about the tender brisket, flavorful pulled pork, and the variety of house-made sauces that complement the meats perfectly. The casual, welcoming atmosphere and consistently high-quality food make Midwood Smokehouse a go-to spot for both locals and visitors alike.

Noble Smoke

Another top contender for the best BBQ in Charlotte is Noble Smoke.This spot has quickly become a favorite for its craft approach to barbecue, with a focus on sourcing the best local ingredients and using time-honored smoking methods. Reddit users often praise the restaurant’s attention to detail, from the perfectly smoked meats to the thoughtfully curated sides like mac and cheese and collard greens. The spacious dining area, with its modern yet rustic vibe, adds to the overall experience, making Noble Smoke a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.

Mac’s Speed Shop

Mac’s Speed Shop offers a unique take on barbecue by blending traditional Southern flavors with a biker-bar atmosphere. This eclectic spot is popular on Reddit for its fun, laid-back environment and an extensive menu that goes beyond the usual barbecue offerings. While the smoked wings and pulled pork are crowd-pleasers, creative twists like barbecue tacos and brisket chili keep diners coming back for more. With multiple locations in the Charlotte area, Mac’s Speed Shop is a convenient and delicious option for BBQ lovers.

Sweet Lew’s BBQ

For those who prefer a more traditional barbecue experience, Sweet Lew’s BBQ is often recommended. Located in the Belmont neighborhood, this no-frills joint focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well: authentic, wood-smoked barbecue. Reddit users appreciate the simplicity and dedication to quality at Sweet Lew’s, where meats are cooked low and slow over hardwood coals. The ribs, in particular, are a standout, often described as fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor. With its unpretentious setting and commitment to barbecue excellence, Sweet Lew’s has earned a loyal following.

Bar-B-Q King

Bar-B-Q King offers a nostalgic experience with its classic drive-in service and timeless barbecue offerings. This Charlotte institution has been serving up barbecue since 1959, and Reddit users love it for its old-school charm and reliably good food. The barbecue sandwiches, topped with the restaurant’s signature slaw, are a favorite, as are the crispy onion rings. Whether you’re dining in your car or at one of the outdoor tables, Bar-B-Q King provides a taste of Charlotte’s barbecue history.

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The Best BBQ in Durham

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Durham’s BBQ scene offers a variety of flavors that cater to both traditionalists and those looking for something new.

Backyard BBQ Pit

Backyard BBQ Pit is another top contender, often cited on Reddit for its no-frills, authentic barbecue. Located on Highway 55, this family-owned establishment is all about the meat, with portions that are generous and flavors that are bold. The brisket, in particular, is a standout, praised by Reddit users for its tenderness and smoky richness. The ribs and chicken also receive high marks, with the restaurant’s signature sauces adding an extra layer of flavor. The casual, down-home vibe of Backyard BBQ Pit makes it a great place for a laid-back meal, where the focus is squarely on the food.

Bullock’s Bar-B-Cue

A Durham institution, Bullock’s Bar-B-Cue has been serving up classic Southern barbecue since 1952. According to Reddit, this is the place to go if you’re looking for a true taste of North Carolina BBQ. The restaurant is known for its pulled pork, which is cooked to perfection and served with a vinegar-based sauce that’s quintessentially eastern North Carolina. Bullock’s also offers a range of other Southern favorites including fried chicken, Brunswick stew, and a variety of sides like collard greens and potato salad. The nostalgic, old-school atmosphere and consistent quality have earned Bullock’s a loyal following over the decades.

Picnic

For those looking for a modern twist on traditional BBQ, Reddit users often recommend Picnic. This restaurant takes a farm-to-table approach, using locally sourced meats and ingredients to create their dishes. The barbecue at Picnic is a fusion of tradition and innovation, with items like the whole hog barbecue, which is cooked on-site and served with house-made sauces. Reddit users particularly love the brisket and smoked turkey, noting the depth of flavor and the care put into the preparation. Picnic’s stylish, casual setting and commitment to sustainability make it a popular choice for BBQ lovers who appreciate a contemporary take on classic dishes.

The Original Q Shack

The Original Q Shack is another favorite among Reddit users for BBQ in Durham. Located in the bustling Ninth Street area, The Q Shack offers a menu that covers all the barbecue bases, from pulled pork and ribs to smoked sausage and chicken. The meats are slow-cooked over hardwoods, imparting a rich, smoky flavor that has earned the restaurant high praise. Reddit users often mention the brisket and ribs as standout items, along with the variety of sauces that allow diners to customize their meals. The laid-back atmosphere and convenient location make The Original Q Shack a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

READ MORE: The best BBQ joints in Durham

The Best BBQ in Greensboro

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The Greensboro community has some clear favorites that consistently stand out for the best BBQ across town.

Stamey’s Barbecue

Stamey’s Barbecue is one of the most frequently mentioned spots, known for its classic Lexington-style barbecue. This establishment has been a staple in Greensboro for decades and continues to draw crowds for its tender, smoky pork shoulder. The barbecue here is accompanied by a distinctive German-style red slaw, and their hush puppies are a must-try. While opinions vary, many locals appreciate the tradition and history that Stamey’s brings to the table.

Country BBQ

Another favorite among Greensboro residents is Country BBQ, located on Wendover Avenue. This spot is well-regarded for its consistency and quality. The menu features a variety of barbecue staples, but the pulled pork is often highlighted as a standout item. Many Reddit users commend Country BBQ for its flavorful meat and the variety of sauces available to complement the dishes.

BOSS Hog’s BBQ

For those looking for something a bit different, BOSS Hog’s BBQoffers a mix of traditional and innovative barbecue dishes. Boss Hog’s is particularly praised for its affordability and generous portions. It’s a great spot to support a local business while indulging in hearty barbecue meals. The ribs and pulled pork sandwiches receive high marks from regulars.

Mac’s Speed Shop

While Mac’s Speed Shop is a chain, it has earned a place in the hearts of Greensboro barbecue lovers. Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive menu, Mac’s offers a diverse range of barbecue options, including brisket, ribs, and smoked chicken. Their barbecue nachos are a crowd favorite and often mentioned in Reddit threads as a must-try item.

City BBQ

Another chain that makes the list is City BBQ, praised for its reliable quality and extensive menu. This spot is ideal for those who want a wide selection of meats and sides, including brisket, pulled pork, and smoked turkey. The mac and cheese and cornbread also come highly recommended by patrons.

Hickory Tree Turkey BBQ

Hickory Tree Turkey BBQ is a lesser-known gem that’s gaining popularity for its authentic and flavorful dishes. The pulled pork and brisket are standout items, and the homemade sauces add a delightful touch to the meals. The relaxed, no-frills environment makes it a perfect spot for enjoying some of Greensboro’s best barbecue.

The Best BBQ in Raleigh

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From traditional Eastern North Carolina barbecue to more modern interpretations, Raleigh has a range of options to explore. 

Sam Jones BBQ

Sam Jones BBQ is often at the top of the list for many Raleigh locals. Known for its traditional Eastern North Carolina whole hog barbecue, this spot has a reputation for delivering consistently delicious and authentic flavors. The pulled pork, which is smoked over wood and chopped to perfection, is a standout dish. Sam Jones BBQ also offers a variety of sides, with the collard greens and cornbread being particularly popular. The restaurant’s commitment to preserving the traditional methods of barbecue has earned it high praise from both locals and visitors.

The Pit

The Pit is another frequently mentioned barbecue spot in Raleigh. It’s known for offering a more upscale barbecue dining experience while still delivering on flavor. The Pit specializes in whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue and has a menu that features a wide range of Southern staples. The chopped barbecue pork and the beef brisket are favorites among regulars. Despite some mixed reviews about the service and the ambiance, many still regard The Pit as a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts in Raleigh.

Clyde Cooper’s BBQ

Clyde Cooper’s BBQ is a long-standing institution in Raleigh, serving up traditional Eastern North Carolina barbecue since 1938. This no-frills restaurant is beloved for its smoky, tender pork barbecue and its tangy vinegar-based sauce. The hush puppies and coleslaw are also crowd-pleasers. Reddit users appreciate Clyde Cooper’s for its authenticity and the nostalgic feel of dining at an old-school barbecue joint. The consistency and quality of the food have made it a favorite for generations.

Longleaf Swine

Longleaf Swine is a relatively new addition to the Raleigh barbecue scene but has quickly garnered a loyal following. Known for setting up at the Transfer Co. Food Hall on weekends, Longleaf Swine offers some of the best ribs in the area. Their ribs are praised for their perfect balance of smoky flavor and tenderness. In addition to ribs, they serve pulled pork and brisket, all of which have received rave reviews. Longleaf Swine is also planning to open a brick-and-mortar location, which is eagerly anticipated by fans.

City Barbeque

While City BBQ is a chain, it has earned a spot in the hearts of Raleigh residents for its high-quality barbecue. The menu includes a wide variety of meats, from pulled pork and brisket to smoked turkey and ribs. The mac and cheese and cornbread are standout sides that complement the barbecue perfectly. Reddit users often recommend City Barbeque for its reliable and consistently delicious offerings, making it a great option for barbecue lovers.

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The Best BBQ in Wilmington

Wilmington, this coastal town has deep Southern roots, and that means one thing: barbecue. Whether you’re a fan of smoky pulled pork, tender ribs, or tangy sauces, Wilmington’s barbecue scene has something to satisfy every craving. 

Casey’s Buffet

While Casey’s Buffet is primarily known for its buffet-style Southern comfort food, Reddit users often mention it as a top spot for barbecue. The pulled pork and ribs are standout items on the buffet, with the pork praised for its juicy, smoky flavor. Redditors also appreciate the nostalgic, down-home atmosphere and the extensive selection of sides that pair perfectly with the barbecue. If you’re in the mood for a little bit of everything, Casey’s Buffet offers a satisfying barbecue experience.

Carolina BBQ

For those seeking traditional Carolina-style barbecue, Redditors point to Carolina BBQ as a must-visit. This local joint is celebrated for its vinegar-based sauces that define eastern Carolina barbecue. The pulled pork is a fan favorite, with a tangy and slightly spicy kick that keeps people coming back. Reddit users also appreciate the friendly service and laid-back atmosphere, making Carolina BBQ a great spot for a casual meal that captures the essence of Wilmington’s barbecue heritage.

Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue

A true Wilmington institution, Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue has been serving up delicious barbecue for decades and remains a top choice among locals and Redditors alike. Known for its traditional Southern barbecue, Jackson’s offers a menu filled with classics like pulled pork, ribs, and fried chicken. The vinegar-based sauces are a highlight, adding a tangy punch to the tender meats. Reddit users often mention the warm, family-friendly atmosphere and the consistent quality that has kept Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue at the top of the barbecue scene in Wilmington for years.

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The Best BBQ in Winston-Salem

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Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ connoisseur or a casual foodie, the best BBQ in Winston-Salem offers a rich tapestry of flavors that will leave you coming back for more. 

Mr. Barbecue

When you think of BBQ in Winston-Salem, Mr. Barbecue is bound to come up in conversation. This beloved spot has been serving up some of the most mouthwatering BBQ in town. One visit, and it’s easy to see why. Start with their signature pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection and seasoned just right. It’s juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor—every bite is a testament to their BBQ expertise. Their ribs are another crowd favorite, with a smoky flavor that will have you licking your fingers clean. And for those who crave a bit of variety, their BBQ chicken is equally delightful, offering a smoky, tender option that’s hard to resist.

Real Q

The ambiance at Real Q is as inviting as the food. Serving BBQ since 1991, it’s a laid-back, no-frills kind of place where the focus is solely on delivering an unforgettable BBQ experience. What really sets The Real Que apart is their incredible BBQ sauce: Real Q Dippin’ Sauce. It’s the kind of sauce that BBQ dreams are made of—perfectly balanced between tangy and sweet, it enhances every dish it graces. Whether you’re slathering it on a sandwich or dipping your fries in it, this sauce is a game-changer.

Honky Tonk Smokehouse

Honky Tonk Smokehouse is where the magic happens for those who crave BBQ with a bit of flair. This beloved spot has carved out a niche with its imaginative takes on classic Southern BBQ. Walking in, you’re greeted by an aroma that promises something special, and the menu does not disappoint. Their brisket is a must-try, cooked to perfection and imbued with a smoky richness that melts in your mouth. You can top the brisket with any of the restaurant’s twelve sauces. 

Lexington BBQ

Just a 25-minute drive south of Winston-Salem lies Lexington BBQ, a cornerstone of North Carolina’s rich BBQ heritage. Winston-Salem locals swear by its authentic flavors. This iconic establishment serves up “Lexington-style” BBQ, which is renowned for Western North Carolina sauce that perfectly marries with their expertly smoked pork. Reddit users frequently praise the finely chopped pork, which is tender, flavorful, and embodies the essence of traditional Southern BBQ.

Little Richard’s BBQ

Little Richard’s BBQ is a haven for those who crave the authentic flavors of Southern BBQ, meticulously prepared to satisfy your taste buds. Reddit users can’t get enough of their tender ribs and mouthwatering chicken sandwiches. And if you’re looking for something a little different, Little Richard’s BBQ also serves up “Mexi-Que.” You can try out some BBQ tacos. If that’s not your speed, there are plenty of other options, ranging from burgers, to BBQ plates, BBQ sandwiches. With eight different sauces to choose from, your options are truly endless. 

READ MORE: The best BBQ joints in Winston-Salem

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by Cardinal & Pine staff.