These 10 Restaurants Serve The Best Barbecue In North Carolina

North Carolina and BBQ might as well be synonymous. We’re the BBQ state with two different types to boot. But with so much claim to fame with the Q, it can be hard to find the real deal and the deal that’s just alright. Not to mention, the entire state is brimming with amazing BBQ joints and each native has their favorite. But, between reviews, scores, and deliciousness – these 10 have stood the test of wood-smoked time.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. B's BBQ, Greenville BBQ Jew Don't let the exterior fool you, B's is by far the best eastern style Q you'll find in North Carolina. People line up around the exterior every weekend for a taste of the good stuff. 2. The 'Honey Monk,' Lexington LexBBQ.com And on the other side of the spectrum, the Honey Monk is some of the best Lexington BBQ you'll find in the state. After all, it is in the birthplace of Lexington-style. 3. Short Sugar's, Reidsville Short Sugars BBQ Another NC BBQ landmark is the classic, delicious, and legendary Short Sugar's. This little joint has been frequented by famous faces, devoted locals, and BBQ travelers from across America (if that's a job, sign me up). The hand-pulled BBQ and homemade sauce has been winning awards since this little joint first opened in 1949. 4. Parkers BBQ, Wilson NC BBQ Society This no-frills joint serves BBQ family style & a-la-carte. It's about as simple as it gets but the BBQ is amazing. 5. Wilber's, Goldsboro Wilbers BBQ Wilber's has been consistently ranked as one of the best BBQ joints in the state, even getting a mention in Southern Living. You'll be in hog heaven on your next trip to the beach. 6. Stamey's, Greensboro Serious Eats Although Stamey's has grown to two locations...the BBQ is still authentic and delicious. It's smoked for 8-10 hours over hardwood hickory coals. Not to mention the hush puppies and slaw. Yum! 7. Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge, Shelby Yelp / John M Voted Best BBQ in the NATION by Garden & Gun, you can guarantee a great BBQ platter with a side of hushpuppies. With 70 years in the BBQ biz plus fresh-cooked and smoked daily...you get the best here. 8. The Skylight Inn, Ayden Road Food The Skylight Inn has been cookin' up amazing, whole hog, Eastern Style BBQ since 1947. The cornbread recipe dates back to the 1830's and the family has been in the BBQ business since 1811...so basically you know it's gonna be good. 9. Little Richard's, Winston-Salem NC BBQ Society Little Richard's has both a great atmosphere and great food. Dine beneath original tobacco advertisements and regalia (it is Camel city) while eating some delicious, tangy, vinegar-based BBQ. The best in Winston-Salem. 10. 12 Bones Smokehouse, Asheville Yelp / Jason C. Get here early and grab your spot in line...trust me though, you won't mind waiting. Everything is made from scratch and prepared daily. It's not just the BBQ that's killer here, but also all the sides to go with your Q.

What did you think of our list? What’s your favorite BBQ joint in North Carolina? Tell us in the comments!