Where is the Best Barbecue Restaurant in Charlotte?
If you’re looking for the best barbecue restaurant in Charlotte, then you’ve come to the right place. North Carolina is renowned for its BBQ, and this Southern haven is certainly no exception. In Charlotte, you can find some of the nation’s finest BBQ with legendary flavor and inviting hospitality.
To help you suss out the very best pit stops for all things smoked, pulled, and slathered in BBQ sauce, we’ve compiled this delectable guide to the very best barbecue restaurants in Charlotte. Keep reading to find out more!
Mac’s Speed Shop
Mac’s Speed Shop is one of the most popular and crowded BBQ restaurants in Charlotte. The key here is that the pit masters combine original Southern recipes and local ingredients to take their flavor to the next level. They offer all your classic BBQ favorites: Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and even turkey and ham. The spicy wings come highly recommended too! Finish up your meal with some unique sides like crawfish mac & cheese or collard greens. With its spacious outdoor seating and live music, Mac’s is an ideal spot for a relaxed summer meal
Midwood Smokehouse
Midwood Smokehouse has been firing up the pit since 2010, dazzling BBQ fans all over the city. Sticking to time-honored traditions but moving up a few notches with details, this cozy spot serves up timeless favorites like smoked meats and sides that have been slow-cooked for hours in house. The pulled pork here is consistently rated as one of the best in Charlotte, loaded onto a buttery bun and drizzled with a tangy vinegar sauce. Round off your meal with a lip-smacking side dish like mac & cheese or their refreshing jalapeño slaw.
Queen City Q
Queen City Q combines the traditional with the modern and offers a cool contemporary take on classic North Carolina barbecue. This trendy spot offers specialties like ribs and brisket that would make any pit master proud. The brisket sandwich here is especially fantastic – bursting with flavor and loaded with cheddar cheese, jalapeño bacon, pickles, and Carolina BBQ sauce. They also have a great vegan barbecue option made with piled-high jackfruit, for those veggie-inclined diners! Check out their regular live music events too – it only adds to the laid-back atmosphere.
Queen City Q
Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge
At Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge, you’ll find some of Charlotte’s most incredible stick-to-your-ribs smokehouse dishes. This joint is renowned for their fried pickles – hot and crunchy spears of crispiness that pair perfectly with their tantalizing burgers. But the true stars of the show here are definitely the pit-fired specialties like BBQ pork, beef brisket, jerk chicken, and even shrimp – which you can enjoy indoors or on the outdoor patio. No matter what you order here, you won’t be disappointed!
Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge
With its vibrant array of new age flavors blended with timeless classic techniques, Charlotte is an epicentre for Southern-style “cue cuisine! Whether you’re hankering for something classic or something a little offbeat, you’ll find something tasty here in the heart of North Carolina.
Insider’s Guide to Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte, North Carolina is a city steeped in culture, history, and southern charm. The Queen City is a thriving metropolis that boasts attractions for all ages, from museums and parks to sports and shopping. Charlotte is also known for its world-class southern cuisine. One food in particular stands out in Charlotte – barbecue. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Charlotte’s best spots for barbecue.
History of Barbecue in Charlotte
Before diving into the best spots for barbecue in Charlotte, let’s take a quick look at the city’s history with this art form. Barbecue is a way of life in Charlotte, and it has been for centuries. The earliest barbecues in America were held in the south, and slaves were the first pitmasters. They would cook whole hogs and other meats over an open fire pit, slow-roasting the meat for hours until it was juicy and tender. This tradition has been passed down through generations, leading to the restaurants and food trucks around Charlotte that serve authentic southern barbecue today.
Best Barbecue Restaurants in Charlotte
1. Midwood Smokehouse – Midwood Smokehouse serves classic Carolina barbecue with a modern twist. Their meats are smoked on-site using hickory wood, and each dish is paired with house-made sauces that are to die for. Their menu also features other southern classics like fried catfish and black-eyed peas.
2. Noble Smoke – This upscale restaurant pairs its beloved barbecue offerings with craft cocktails, local beers, and fine wines. The brisket is a fan favorite, and they also serve jerk chicken, pork ribs, and even Texas-style beef ribs.
3. Price’s Chicken Coop – This humble establishment has been a Charlotte institution for over 75 years. They serve crispy, juicy fried chicken alongside some of the most desirable fried fish and livers in town. In addition to their classic fare, you can opt to order their delicious fried chicken, fixings, and tea.
4. Bill Spoon’s Barbecue – This Charlotte staple has been around for over 50 years and serves up slow-smoked barbecue that’s worth the time and money. They offer beef, pork, turkey, and chicken with your choice of two of their classic sides.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Charlotte has more than just great barbecue restaurants, it also has some amazing local attractions and experiences to offer. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions to get you started:
1. Red Clay Ciderworks – If you’re looking for some local flavor other than barbecue, check out this cozy cidery just outside of the city center. They offer over 20 different types of ciders ranging from dry to sweet, and on the weekends they feature live music.
2. The Mint Museum – Charlotte has a rich cultural scene and the Mint Museum is a great place to start exploring it. The museum celebrates art and design from around the world with a particular focus on southern culture and history.
3. Carolina Panthers – If you are traveling during football season, don’t miss the chance to catch a Carolina Panthers game! The Bank of America Stadium is located in the heart of the city and is always an exciting atmosphere.
4. The Greenway – For outdoor enthusiasts, Charlotte’s expansive greenway system features 40+ miles of trails providing ample opportunities for biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Conclusion
Charlotte is a wonderful city to explore, with a rich cultural history, incredible food, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you are looking for classic Carolina BBQ or something a little off the beaten path, Charlotte’s got you covered.
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