The Triangle Guide: A BBQ bucket list

We asked our readers to tell us their favorite Triangle BBQ joints. Here’s what they said.

Are you on the hunt for the best BBQ in the North Carolina Triangle? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the top BBQ spots based on a readers’ choice poll. From classic institutions to modern twists on traditional flavors, the NC Triangle has a diverse range of BBQ options that are sure to satisfy your cravings for the best BBQ. Read on to see our readers’ favorites for 2024!

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4. Prime BBQ in Knightdale 

Prime BBQ in Knightdale offers a culinary revelation that’s shaking up the BBQ scene in the North Carolina Triangle. Bursting onto the landscape with bold flavors and an innovative spirit, this spot has quickly gone from newcomer to must-visit for BBQ lovers seeking something out of the ordinary.

Prime BBQ throws the traditional BBQ playbook out the window, opting instead for a menu that’s as daring as it is delicious. Imagine smoked wings kissed by the fire just right, resulting in a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone. Or BBQ Frito pie, a fusion of flavors that’ll have your taste buds dancing.

The creativity doesn’t stop at the meat. The sides at Prime BBQ are anything but an afterthought. From sweet potato salad that’ll make you rethink every potato salad you’ve had before, to giant potatoes for the hungriest diners, every dish complements the main event perfectly.

In a relatively short time, Prime BBQ in Knightdale has entered the BBQ conversation in the NC Triangle as a leader in the culinary scene. Their approach of blending high-quality meats with unexpected flavors and techniques has set a new standard for what BBQ can be. Whether you’re a BBQ purist or an adventurous foodie, Prime BBQ offers a fresh and exciting dining experience that proves sometimes, the new kid on the block can really shake things up.

3. Longleaf Swine 

At Longleaf Swine in Raleigh, owner Adam and Pitmaster Marc have transformed the smoking of meats into an art form rich with traditional North Carolina flavor and enhanced by Texas BBQ and Puerto Rican influences. Passion is the name of the game, and it’s clear with every bite that the fellas from Longleaf Swine take their craft seriously. 

Their menu is a veritable ode to the pig and beyond, with each item promising the depths of flavor that only hours upon hours over low, smoky heat can provide. The brisket, for instance, is so tender it practically falls apart. And the ribs always have diners gnawing every last bit of meat from the bone.

Of course, no BBQ feast is complete without a cast of supporting sides, and Longleaf Swine’s offerings are far from mere afterthoughts. Each side dish, from the roasted sweet potatoes to the pimento mac ‘n’ cheese, is crafted to complement the main event, ensuring your meal is balanced in both flavor and texture. The harmonious blend of traditional offerings and modern flavors will leave you wanting more. 

And let’s not overlook the libations. With a selection of craft beers that are as thoughtfully selected as the cuts of meat, finding the perfect sip to wash down that smoky fare is a delightful dilemma. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to recommend a pairing, making the dining experience at Longleaf Swine as seamless as it is scrumptious.

In a world where the title of ‘best BBQ’ is hotly contested, Longleaf Swine stands out not just for the excellence of its food but for its dedication to the craft. So, if your BBQ pilgrimage leads you to their door, rest assured, you’re in for a treat.

2. Sam Jones 

Embarking on a BBQ journey without stopping by Sam Jones is like hitting the road for a big adventure with half a tank of gas — sure, you’ll get somewhere, but you’re missing out on the full experience. And why is that? Three words sum it up: Whole. Hog. Barbeque.

Imagine stepping into a space where the new school of BBQ shakes hands with the old pit tradition. Obviously, the star of the show is the whole hog BBQ, cooked over wood coals with a dedication that borders on the sacred. It’s an homage to the past, yet it’s served up with a zest of modern culinary genius.

But let’s not gloss over the sides. From delectable collared greens to the best potato salad in town, (and let’s not forget the banana picking!), you will find the perfect pairing with any BBQ dinner, whether you choose a triple meat feast or a simple sandwich.

So, if your quest for the best BBQ has led you to Raleigh, make sure to carve out time for Sam Jones. It’s a vivid reminder that when it comes to BBQ, blending the old with the new can lead to something truly spectacular. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite spot for that perfect mix of smoky, savory, and sublime.

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1. Clyde Cooper’s

Dive into the rich tapestry of BBQ history with a visit to Clyde Cooper’s, where the walls are seasoned with stories almost as much as their meats are with spices. Since 1938, this Raleigh gem has been the number-one go-to for BBQ enthusiasts, serving up a feast that bridges generations. Imagine pulling up a chair in a place where the scent of warm wood fire welcomes you and the pulled pork is nothing short of legendary.

At Clyde Cooper’s, you’ll experience the pinnacle of North Carolina’s BBQ heritage. The vibe here is unpretentious, with a side of nostalgia, making you feel right at home even if it’s your first visit. Here, the BBQ speaks for itself — tender, succulent, and infused with just the right amount of smoke to make your taste buds dance.

Don’t even get us started on the sauce. It’s a tangy, vinegar-based concoction that perfectly complements the smoky flavors of the meat, embodying the essence of North Carolina BBQ tradition. It’s the kind of sauce that makes you want to lick your fingers (and maybe even your plate) clean.

And while the pulled pork might be the star of the show, let’s not overlook the brisket, fried chicken, and the succulent sides. Tender smoked beef is served with a house-made au jous sauce — a recipe passed down for generations. And the fried chicken has previously stolen the crown for best in the Triangle. Not to mention the creamy coleslaw and heavenly hush puppies.

In a world that’s constantly chasing the next big food trend, Clyde Cooper’s stands by its commitment to tradition. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are those that have stood the test of time. So, whether you’re a BBQ purist or a curious foodie, a trip to Clyde Cooper’s is a must. Just be sure to come hungry.

READ MORE: The best bang-for-your-buck steakhouse in Raleigh