The Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Raleigh, NC has a diverse selection of barbecue restaurants that offer an authentic taste of North Carolina’s rich barbecue tradition. Whether you prefer pulled pork, brisket, ribs, or grilled wings, there is a restaurant to suit your taste. Here is why they are the best restaurants in Raleigh for easing your BBQ craving.
1. The Pit Authentic Barbecue – The Pit, included as one of the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is one of the most popular barbecue restaurants known for its traditional and authentic southern-style barbecue. The meats are slow-cooked over hickory wood and served with classic sides like collard greens, mac and cheese, and hushpuppies. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and excellent service, making it a top pick for locals and visitors alike.
2. Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue – Clyde Cooper’s, one of the most popular barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, has been serving up delicious barbecue since 1938, making it a Raleigh institution. The restaurant specializes in pit-cooked pork shoulder, beef brisket, and ribs, all served with classic sides like potato salad and baked beans. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a family meal or a quick lunch.
3. Ole Time Barbecue – Ole Time Barbecue, while among the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a classic southern-style barbecue joint with a loyal following of customers who rave about the delicious food and friendly service. The menu features all the traditional barbecue favorites, including pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked chicken, as well as homemade sides like coleslaw and cornbread. The restaurant is also known for its homemade desserts, like banana pudding and peach cobbler.
4. City Barbeque – City Barbeque, another of the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a chain restaurant that has earned a reputation for serving up some of the best barbecue around. The menu features all the classic barbecue meats, as well as some unique items like smoked turkey and smoked sausage. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides and desserts, and the service is fast and friendly.
5. Backyard Bistro – Backyard Bistro, while amid the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a casual sports bar and grill that also serves up some delicious barbecue. The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Bistro BBQ Platter,” which includes pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, as well as sides like mac and cheese and baked beans. The restaurant also has a large selection of beers on tap and plenty of TVs to watch the game, making it a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy some tasty barbecue.
Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Raleigh
The Pit Authentic Barbecue
Address: 328 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Hours: Monday-Thursday 11 am-9 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-10 pm, Sunday 11 am-8 pm
Phone Number: (919) 890-4500
The Pit Authentic Barbecue, included as one of the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. The restaurant offers a range of traditional southern-style barbecue meats that are slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. The interior of the restaurant is rustic and cozy, with wooden tables, brick walls, and vintage decor.
One of the signature dishes at The Pit Authentic Barbecue is their Carolina-style pulled pork, which is cooked low and slow over hickory wood and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Other popular menu items include beef brisket, smoked chicken, and baby back ribs. The restaurant also offers a range of classic sides, such as collard greens, mac and cheese, and hushpuppies, as well as homemade desserts like banana pudding and pecan pie.
One unique feature of The Pit Authentic Barbecue is their open kitchen, which allows diners to watch the chefs as they prepare and cook the food. The restaurant also offers a private dining room that can be reserved for special occasions or events.
The service at The Pit Authentic Barbecue is excellent, with friendly and attentive staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is always busy, so it is recommended to make a reservation to avoid a long wait.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Carolina-Style Pulled Pork – Slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours, the pulled pork at The Pit is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. Served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce, it’s a classic Carolina dish that’s sure to please.
▣ Beef Brisket – This Texas-style brisket is slow-cooked over hickory wood for up to 14 hours, resulting in meat that’s fall-apart tender and packed with smoky flavor. Served with a side of spicy barbecue sauce, it’s a must-try dish for meat lovers.
▣ Smoked Chicken – The Pit’s smoked chicken is brined overnight, then slow-cooked over hickory wood until it’s juicy and tender. Served with a side of Alabama-style white barbecue sauce, it’s a unique and delicious twist on traditional barbecue.
▣ Baby Back Ribs – These succulent pork ribs are rubbed with a secret blend of spices, then slow-cooked over hickory wood until they’re tender and juicy. Served with a side of classic barbecue sauce, they’re a mouth-watering treat.
▣ Fried Chicken – Not in the mood for barbecue? The Pit’s fried chicken is a delicious alternative. The chicken is brined overnight, then fried to crispy perfection and served with a side of honey butter for dipping. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Customer Reviews:
“I had the brisket and it was some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the sides were also delicious. The service was top-notch, and I appreciated the open kitchen concept.”
“The pulled pork was amazing, and the vinegar-based sauce was the perfect complement. The mac and cheese was also excellent, and the banana pudding was the perfect end to the meal. The atmosphere was lively and fun, and the staff was friendly and helpful.”
“I had the baby back ribs and they were fall-off-the-bone tender. The collard greens and hushpuppies were also fantastic. The service was fast and efficient, and the restaurant was busy but not too loud.”
In summary, The Pit Authentic Barbecue is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious southern-style barbecue in Raleigh. With a cozy interior, open kitchen, and excellent service, it’s the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or a special occasion. Be sure to try the Carolina-style pulled pork or the beef brisket, and don’t forget to save room for dessert! They rank amid the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Raleigh for good reasons.
Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue
Address: 327 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10 am-6 pm, closed on Sunday
Phone Number: (919) 832-7614
Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue, one of the most popular barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a classic barbecue restaurant located in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. The restaurant has been a local institution since 1938 and is known for its traditional North Carolina-style barbecue. The interior of the restaurant is simple and no-frills, with wooden tables and chairs and a counter where customers can place their orders.
The signature dish at Clyde Cooper’s is their chopped pork barbecue, which is slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours and then chopped and served with a vinegar-based sauce. Other popular menu items include beef brisket, chicken, and ribs, as well as classic sides like collard greens, hushpuppies, and mac and cheese.
One unique feature of Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue is their old-fashioned barbecue pit, which is located in the dining room and adds to the restaurant’s rustic charm. The restaurant also offers catering services for events and special occasions.
The service at Clyde Cooper’s is friendly and efficient, with staff who are happy to answer questions and make recommendations. The restaurant is often busy during peak hours, but the line moves quickly and the food is always fresh.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Chopped Pork Barbecue – Slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours and then chopped, Clyde Cooper’s signature pork barbecue is a must-try dish. Served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce, it’s a classic North Carolina-style barbecue that’s sure to satisfy.
▣ Beef Brisket – Cooked low and slow for up to 14 hours, the beef brisket at Clyde Cooper’s is tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. Served with a side of tangy barbecue sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for meat lovers.
▣ St. Louis Ribs – These pork ribs are dry-rubbed with a special blend of spices, then slow-cooked over hickory wood until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. Served with a side of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, they’re a finger-licking good treat.
▣ Fried Chicken – Clyde Cooper’s fried chicken is brined overnight, then battered and fried to crispy perfection. Served with a side of honey butter for dipping, it’s a southern comfort food classic.
▣ Brunswick Stew – This hearty stew is a southern staple and a must-try at Clyde Cooper’s. Made with shredded pork, chicken, and vegetables in a tomato-based broth, it’s a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for a cold day.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the chopped pork barbecue and it was amazing. The meat was tender and flavorful, and the sauce was the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The hushpuppies were also fantastic. This is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic North Carolina barbecue.”
“The beef brisket was some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was tender and smoky, and the sides were also great. The mac and cheese was creamy and cheesy, and the collard greens had just the right amount of seasoning.”
“I had the ribs and they were fall-off-the-bone tender. The sauce was delicious and not too sweet, and the portion size was generous. The service was quick and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting.”
In summary, Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue is a beloved Raleigh institution that serves up delicious, traditional North Carolina-style barbecue. With a no-frills interior, friendly service, and mouth-watering food, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of southern hospitality. Be sure to try the chopped pork barbecue and hushpuppies! They stand out among the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh.
Ole Time Barbecue
Address: 6309 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27606
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10:30 am-8 pm, closed on Sunday
Phone Number: (919) 859-2544
Ole Time Barbecue, while among the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a family-owned and operated restaurant that has been serving up classic North Carolina-style barbecue since 1993. The restaurant is housed in a modest brick building with a large covered porch and a rustic, country-style interior. Customers can order at the counter and then enjoy their meal at one of the wooden tables inside or outside on the porch.
The signature dish at Ole Time Barbecue is their chopped pork barbecue, which is slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours and then chopped and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Other popular menu items include beef brisket, chicken, and ribs, as well as classic southern sides like collard greens, hushpuppies, and mac and cheese.
One unique feature of Ole Time Barbecue is their self-serve condiment bar, which includes a variety of barbecue sauces, hot sauces, pickles, and other toppings. The restaurant also sells their homemade barbecue sauce and rub, so customers can take a taste of Ole Time Barbecue home with them.
The service at Ole Time Barbecue is friendly and attentive, with staff who are happy to make recommendations and ensure that customers have a great dining experience. The restaurant is typically busy during peak hours, but the line moves quickly and the food is always fresh.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Chopped Pork Barbecue – Slow-cooked over hickory wood for hours, chopped, and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce. Comes with a choice of two sides.
▣ Beef Brisket – Slow-smoked and hand-sliced beef brisket, served with a choice of two sides.
▣ Ribs – Slow-cooked baby back ribs, served with a choice of two sides and hushpuppies.
▣ Fried Chicken – Southern-style fried chicken, served with a choice of two sides.
▣ BBQ Chicken – Half of a slow-cooked BBQ chicken, basted with Ole Time’s signature BBQ sauce and served with a choice of two sides.
Customer Reviews:
“The chopped pork barbecue is amazing! The meat is tender and smoky, and the sauce has just the right amount of tang. The collard greens are also delicious, and the service is always friendly and welcoming.”
“I had the beef brisket and it was fantastic. The meat was juicy and flavorful, and the portion size was generous. The hushpuppies were also a hit with our group. This is definitely one of the best barbecue places in Raleigh!”
“The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender and the barbecue sauce was delicious. We also tried the fried chicken and it was crispy and flavorful. The mac and cheese was a bit on the dry side, but overall we had a great meal and the service was excellent.”
In summary, Ole Time Barbecue is a charming, family-friendly restaurant that serves up delicious North Carolina-style barbecue and classic southern sides. With a cozy interior, self-serve condiment bar, and friendly service, it’s a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family. Be sure to try the chopped pork barbecue and hushpuppies! They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Raleigh.
City Barbeque
Address: 9424 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh, NC 27615
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 10:30 am-8 pm, Friday-Saturday 10:30 am-9 pm
Phone Number: (919) 841-2337
City Barbeque, another of the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a chain of barbecue restaurants that specialize in slow-smoked meats and homemade sides. The Raleigh location is housed in a spacious, modern building with a rustic, country-style interior. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeout options, and customers can order at the counter and then enjoy their meal at one of the wooden tables inside or outside on the patio.
The signature dish at City Barbeque is their brisket, which is slow-smoked over hickory wood for up to 18 hours and served sliced or chopped. Other popular menu items include pulled pork, ribs, turkey, and sausage, as well as classic sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread.
One unique feature of City Barbeque is their “backyard barbecue” catering option, which allows customers to order smoked meats and sides in bulk for special events or parties. The restaurant also offers a loyalty program, where customers can earn points for every purchase and redeem them for free food and drinks.
The service at City Barbeque is fast and friendly, with staff who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. The restaurant is typically busy during peak hours, but the line moves quickly and the food is always fresh.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Brisket – Slow-smoked over hickory wood for up to 18 hours, sliced or chopped and served with a choice of sauce.
▣ Pulled Pork – Slow-smoked for up to 14 hours, pulled and served with a choice of sauce.
▣ St. Louis Cut Ribs – Slow-smoked over hickory wood and served with a choice of sauce.
▣ Turkey Breast – Slow-smoked and hand-sliced turkey breast, served with a choice of sauce.
▣ Sausage – Smoked in-house and served sliced, with a choice of sauce.
Customer Reviews:
“The brisket is absolutely amazing – so tender and flavorful! The mac and cheese and cornbread are also fantastic. The service is always top-notch, and the restaurant has a great atmosphere.”
“The pulled pork is some of the best I’ve ever had, and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. The sides are also delicious, especially the baked beans and collard greens. The staff is always friendly and welcoming.”
“The smoked turkey is a must-try – it’s so juicy and flavorful! The brisket and pulled pork are also great options. The sides are a bit hit-or-miss, but overall I always have a great experience at City Barbeque.”
In summary, City Barbeque is a reliable chain restaurant that serves up delicious, slow-smoked meats and homemade sides in a modern, welcoming environment. With a loyalty program and catering options, it’s a great choice for groups or special events. Don’t miss the brisket! They have earned the rank of the top 5 barbecue restaurants in Raleigh.
Backyard Bistro
Address: 1235 Hurricane Alley Way, Raleigh, NC 27607
Hours: Monday to Thursday 11 am to 9 pm, Friday 11 am to 10 pm, Saturday 11:30 am to 10 pm, and Sunday 11:30 am to 8 pm.
Phone Number: (919) 851-6203
Backyard Bistro, while amid the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh, is a casual American sports bar that serves classic American fare, craft beer, and cocktails. The interior of the restaurant is spacious, with a lively atmosphere and comfortable seating. It features multiple flat-screen TVs that showcase the latest sports events.
Their signature food item is the “Famous Grilled Wings” that are grilled over an open flame and served with a choice of sauce. The wings come in various flavors, including mild, hot, BBQ, honey mustard, and garlic parmesan.
The restaurant is unique in that it offers a large outdoor patio area that is perfect for enjoying meals and drinks outside. The patio is equipped with a big screen TV, comfortable seating, and a fire pit that makes it an ideal spot for socializing.
The service at Backyard Bistro is friendly and attentive. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu and offers excellent recommendations to customers.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Famous Grilled Wings – Grilled over an open flame and served with a choice of sauce, including mild, hot, BBQ, honey mustard, and garlic parmesan.
▣ Bistro Burger – A classic cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a choice of cheese, served with fries.
▣ Bistro Nachos – A generous serving of tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, pico de gallo, jalapeños, and a choice of chicken or chili.
▣ Blackened Chicken Alfredo – Grilled blackened chicken breast served over fettuccine pasta in a creamy Alfredo sauce with garlic bread.
▣ Southern Fried Chicken – Juicy chicken breast breaded and fried to perfection, served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the grilled wings with the hot sauce, and they were amazing! The service was great, and the atmosphere was lively. I highly recommend this place!”
“The food and drinks at Backyard Bistro were top-notch, and the outdoor patio was the perfect spot to hang out with friends. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel welcome.”
“I had the cheeseburger and fries, and they were fantastic. The meat was cooked to perfection, and the fries were crispy and delicious. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and I would definitely recommend this place.”
Backyard Bistro is a lively sports bar in Raleigh that serves classic American fare, craft beer, and cocktails. Their signature item is the “Famous Grilled Wings,” which are grilled over an open flame and served with a choice of sauce. The restaurant features a large outdoor patio area that is perfect for socializing. The service is friendly and attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. Overall, Backyard Bistro is a great place to enjoy good food and drinks with friends while watching the latest sports events. They can definitely be counted among the top barbecue restaurants in Raleigh.
The Pit Authentic Barbecue, Clyde Cooper’s Barbecue, Ole Time Barbecue, City Barbeque, and Backyard Bistro are all standout establishments with unique offerings and exceptional service. Each restaurant has its own signature dishes that reflect their distinct style and approach to barbecue. This is why they are the best restaurants in Raleigh for easing your BBQ craving. Overall, if you find yourself in the city, be sure to check out these top five barbecue restaurants in Raleigh and indulge in the delicious flavors of North Carolina’s rich cuisine.
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