North Carolina’s barbecue scene is one of the delightful experiences that everyone visiting the city should have. Experience the cozy seating, fantastic atmospheres, and authentic, mouthwatering flavors that have made these barbecue joints the talk of the town. Prepare to be satisfied and discover the true essence of North Carolina’s barbecue tradition as we unearth the best of the best. Here are the top places for the best BBQ in North Carolina.
Noble Smoke
Noble Smoke Barbecue serves smoky perfection at its best, with every bite celebrating North Carolina’s rich barbecue tradition. This place has become a staple in Charlotte and entices foodies with its delectable menu and warm, inviting atmosphere. The place is packed pretty much every night. The brisket is a must order, on Saturday they have their short rib, and the pork barbecue sammies are a must! Whether their tender brisket or delectable smoked Turkey, every dish tells a story of unrivaled passion for barbecue.
- Must Try: Chopped Creekstone Brisket Sammie + Short Rib on Saturdays
- Favorite Side: Anson Mills Hush Puppies
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm


Jon Gs
Get ready to be amazed by the flavor and barbecue mastery at Jon G’s, serving handcrafted meats and homemade sides. What sets apart this family-owned business is its creative approach, which includes dishes like spicy Korean barbecue tacos and smoked brisket with tangy pimento cheese. Their Porky B tacos and single sides should also make your wish list. Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure unlike any other. Things to note, Jon G’s is only open on Saturdays and we recommend getting there early. The line will be long and you will have to wait for several hours but its a) worth the wait and b) its an entire experience like tailgating…they even have a cooler of beer for people in line.
When you order get as much as you can! The can’t miss orders are the brisket and the short rib but everything is amazing!
- Must Try: Classic Pulled Pork
- Favorite Side: Brown Sugar Smoked Beans
- Hours: Only open on Saturdays, 11am-4pm (or sold out, so get in line early!)



Red Bridges Barbeque Lodge
For over 75 years, this legendary restaurant has been delighting locals and visitors with award-winning barbecue recipes. They are among the few places that still slow cooks pork over hickory all night. Red Bridges Barbeque Lodge never disappoints, from succulent ribs to melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork. The inviting atmosphere created by the cozy seating arrangements and friendly staff keeps customers returning for more. Two words: Sweet tea! My favorite in the state…if you love sugar that is.
- Must Try: Get it all with the Large Tray: BBQ, BBQ Slaw, Hushpuppies or Buns
- Favorite Side: Onion Rings, also order that SWEET TEA!
- Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11am-7pm; Sunday 11am-3pm
Lexington Barbeque
Lexington Barbeque is a testament to North Carolina’s barbecue heritage, providing an unparalleled culinary experience.
This revered establishment has delighted patrons for decades with its array of slow-cooked meats expertly seasoned and served with a generous dollop of Southern hospitality. Hence, the welcoming atmosphere and charming seating arrangements provide the ideal setting for savoring their famous pulled pork and tangy vinegar-based sauce.
- Must Try: I only order the Coarsse Chopped Pork Sandwich/Plate, it’s that good!
- Favorite Side: Pork Skins
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-9pm; Closed Sundays

Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque
Enter the storied world of Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque, where each delectable bite brings a long history of Barbecue to life. Since 1938, they have perfected their slow-smoked meats, steeped in tradition and refined over time. When you visit Cooper’s, experience the treat of indulging in a non-greasy, mouthwatering barbecue that you won’t soon forget.
- Must Try: BBQ Baby Back Ribs
- Favorite Side: Collard Greens or Cheerwine Baked Beans
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 11am-4pm (or sold out!)
Grady’s BBQ
Join the flavor fiesta at Grady’s BBQ, where the savory aromas of smoked meats and tangy sauces entice the senses. Enjoy their mouthwatering smoked ribs covered in a finger-licking barbecue sauce with the perfect sweetness and tang. In addition, Grady’s BBQ offers a variety of smoked treats to satiate every craving, from the tender pulled chicken to the flavorful sausage.
So, thanks to the lively ambiance and shared seating, every visit became a special barbecue celebration at Grady’s BBQ.
- Must Try: Smoked Ribs
- Favorite Side: Cole Slaw
- Hours: Wednesday-Friday 10am-3pm, Saturdays 10am-4pm
Old Hampton Store & Barbeque
This charming establishment seamlessly blends rustic charm with a delectable barbecue affair. And, you can taste the passion and heritage that goes into each dish with each bite of their tender meats and tangy sauces. What’s more, the inviting seating arrangements allow guests to unwind and enjoy their meal and the timeless aura surrounding them.
- Must Try: Pork sammies…non barbecue order the fried bologna sandwich
- Favorite Side: Mac n cheese or the fried pickles
- Hours: Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, Sunday 11am-3pm
Parker’s BBQ
Enter Parker’s BBQ to experience a place where time-honored barbecue customs are preserved. Eat their famous pulled pork, drenched in a mouthwatering vinegar and pepper sauce, and experience the legacy of slow-cooked goodness. So, enjoy their succulent, smoky ribs, each bite a testament to their dedication to flavor and quality.
Every visit to Parker’s BBQ is undoubtedly guaranteed the best adventure into some of the best barbecue. Hence, thanks to the warm atmosphere and comfortable seating arrangements.
- Must Try: BBQ Turkey (sold only on Wednesday’s!)
- Favorite Side: Green Beans
- Hours: Monday-Friday 9am-7:30pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-7pm
Skylight Inn BBQ
Visit Skylight Inn BBQ, a temple devoted to the craft of whole-hog barbecuing. You will witness true mastery as they slowly cook an entire hog over wood-fired pits, imparting the meat with an unrivaled smoky flavor. Take a bite of the succulent pulled pork, the unquestionably ideal accompaniment to their famed vinegar-based sauce.
The simple decor and casual seating provide an authentic setting for enjoying this time-honored barbecue tradition.
- Must Try: Pulled Pork (Tray or Sandwich)
- Favorite Side: Cornbread Slice
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-7pm, Closed Sundays

Picnic
With a focus on regionally sourced ingredients, Picnic invites guests to experience the essence of farm-to-table Barbecue. Among the best items on the menu is their beef brisket Burgundy, braised in red wine and pork stock. This culinary treasure entices the palate with its distinctive fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors. What’s more? The relaxed atmosphere and carefully chosen seating arrangements create an inviting space for guests to enjoy the succulent smoked meats and sides.
- Must Try: Sliced Brisket Sandwich
- Favorite App/Side: Deviled Eggs + Pickle Fries with Fried Okra on the side
- Hours: Wednesday-Monday 11am-8pm
The Pit Authentic Barbecue
At The Pit Authentic Barbecue, indulge in a culinary journey where the succulent flavors of Carolina’s best meats take center stage. Enjoy the tender, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork that has been perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked. Hence, every mouthful, from the juicy smoked chicken to the tender beef brisket at The Pit Authentic Barbecue, is proof of their dedication to excellence and authenticity.
This North Carolina BBQ joint is the perfect spot to enjoy the Barbecue with friends and family because of the living environment and communal seating.
- Must Try: Carolina-Style Ribs
- Favorite App/Side: Fried Mac and Cheese to start with Sweet Potato Casserole on the side
- Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm
Stamey’s
In North Carolina’s barbecue, Stamey’s in Greensboro has established itself as a legendary institution. This renowned establishment, which has a multi-generational history, takes great pride in its dedication to unwavering quality and unmatched taste. Henceforth, Stamey’s is known for its Lexington-style pit-cooked pork and secret barbecue sauce. It is only prepared over hardwood coals. The beautiful atmosphere and cozy seating arrangements offer the ideal setting for savoring their certainly delicious meat.
- Must Try: Pork Barbecue
- Favorite Side: Brunswick Stew
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm
B’s Barbecue
Visit B’s Barbecue, the premier destination for authentic Eastern North Carolina barbecue. Savor the experience of indulging in a flawlessly prepared, exquisitely tender pork shoulder, which we’ve expertly slow-cooked and infused with an irresistible medley of spices and a zesty, vinegar-based sauce. What’s most important? Grab a bite of their mouthwatering chopped Barbecue, a masterwork of tastes and textures.
All things considered, fill your plate with traditional Southern sides like collard greens and cornbread for the ultimate barbecue feast.

Wilber’s Barbecue
Wilber’s Barbecue offers whole hog perfection and friendly Southern hospitality. Allow the enticing aroma of hickory smoke to lead you to their succulent pork barbecue, cooked low and slow for hours to achieve unparalleled tenderness. Furthermore, enjoy their homemade Brunswick stew, a hearty combination of meat, vegetables, and flavorful ingredients.
With each mouthwatering bite, Wilber’s Barbecue allows you to experience the true spirit of Southern hospitality thanks to its welcoming seating arrangements and atmosphere. Also, the restaurant serves the best BBQ in NC regarding southern taste.
- Must Try: Pork BBQ
- Favorite Side: Potato Salad
- Hours: Wednesday-Saturday 11am-7pm, Sunday 11am-3pm
Morris Barbeque
Enter Morris Barbeque, a culinary haven where the aroma of smoked treats fills the air. Here you will experience the flavorful, tender beef brisket that has been slow-smoked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Enjoy the succulent smoked turkey infused with flavorful herbs and spices. Above all, for barbecue lovers looking for an unforgettable dining experience, the cozy seating arrangements and welcoming atmosphere create an oasis.
- Must Try: BBQ Sandwich
- Favorite Side: Hushpuppies
- Hours: Only Open on Saturdays 9:30am(8am TakeOut)-2pm
Speedy’s BBQ
Speedy’s BBQ creates an exceptional dining experience by combining authenticity with culinary innovation. This establishment in the heart of North Carolina invites guests with its delicious barbeque line. From their succulent ribs to the perfectly smoked chicken, Speedy’s takes pride in creating traditional dishes while embracing new culinary horizons.
The rich atmosphere and comfortable seating allow guests to enjoy an unforgettable barbecue feast. The restaurant serves the best BBQ in NC, without a doubt.

White Swan Bar-B-Q
White Swan Bar-B-Q prides itself on slow-cooking their pork in a covered cooker to preserve that irresistible smoky flavor. The meat is meticulously chopped and prepared to perfection, ensuring a mouthwatering experience. Whether enjoyed in a mouthwatering sandwich, nestled within a soft hamburger bun with a touch of coleslaw, or relished on its own, the taste is simply unrivaled. Discover the incomparable Eastern North Carolina Bar-B-Q and indulge in White Swan Bar-B-Q’s award-winning, authentic pork barbecue.
Crafted from a closely guarded, half-century-old family recipe, White Swan Bar-B-Q has gained recognition as one of the top 25 Bar-B-Qs in the Southeast. Embark on a culinary journey like no other and explore the extensive menu offerings at White Swan Bar-B-Q.
- Must Try: Bar-B-Q Special
- Favorite Side: Mac & Cheese
- Hours: Vary by location
Barbecue Center
The Barbecue Center in Lexington, North Carolina, is a popular barbecue restaurant that has been serving delicious barbecue since 1955. They are known for their traditional North Carolina-style barbecue, including pulled pork sandwiches, hushpuppies, and a variety of classic Southern sides. It’s a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike for experiencing authentic North Carolina barbecue. So many good options in the town of Lexington its hard to go wrong with any you visit but Barbecue Center is a standout in the state!
- Must Try: Chopped barbecue sandwich
- Favorite Side: Sweet Potato Fries
- Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-9pm
Midwood Smokehouse
Midwood Smokehouse in Charlotte, NC elevates barbecue with its mouthwatering ribs and succulent pulled pork. The welcoming ambiance and cozy seating arrangements provide the ideal setting for enjoying a smokey barbeque. Additionally, you will be mesmerized by the Midwood Smokehouse’s seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. The jalapeño-wrapped bacon and burnt ends are two favorites!
- Must Try: Lone Star Brisket Sandwich
- Favorite App/Side: Start with Miguel’s Queso (add chopped pork) with Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños on the side
- Hours: Vary by location
Stephenson’s Bar-B-Q
Located in the heart of the state, this beloved establishment invites patrons to experience the essence of slow-cooked perfection. The comfortable seating arrangements and nostalgic atmosphere transport guests to a bygone era where Barbecue reigned supreme. Moreover, from their tender pork shoulders to the mouthwatering ribs, every dish at Stephenson’s Bar-B-Q is a labor of love.
Conclusion:
The barbecue scene in North Carolina is a rich tapestry of tastes, customs, and culinary delights. Moreover, each place offers a distinctive and unforgettable experience, from the robust smokiness of Richards Bar-B-Q to the timeless classics of Fuller’s Old Fashioned Bar-B-Q. You will undoubtedly be enthralled by the deep history and superb craftsmanship of North Carolina’s barbecue masters.
Photos by Lunahzon from Noble Smoke barbecue tour or Jamey Price