Barbecue in the Carolinas isn’t just food—it’s a way of life. From smoky pork drenched in vinegar to tender ribs slathered in mustard sauce, North and South Carolina serve up some of the best BBQ in the nation. The rivalry between the two states’ styles (Eastern NC’s whole-hog vinegar kick vs. SC’s mustard tang) only makes the hunt for the perfect plate more delicious. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these joints are the cream of the Carolinas’ BBQ crop. Grab a napkin and dig into our top picks.
1. Lexington Barbecue – Lexington, NC
Nestled in the “Barbecue Capital of the World,” Lexington Barbecue (locally dubbed “The Monk”) has been smoking pork shoulders since 1962. They chop the meat fine, douse it in a thin, vinegary “Lexington-style” sauce with a hint of ketchup, and serve it with hushpuppies and slaw. The wood-fired pits run 24/7, filling the air with an aroma that’s drawn folks from across the country. In 2024, it earned a nod from Southern Living as a must-visit, and locals swear by the chopped tray with a side of their famous peach cobbler. Best for: classic NC Piedmont flavor.
2. Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ – Charleston, SC
James Beard Award-winner Rodney Scott brought his Hemingway, SC roots to Charleston, and the result is a BBQ empire built on whole-hog mastery. Pigs are slow-cooked over oak embers for 12 hours, then pulled and splashed with a peppery vinegar sauce that’s pure Eastern SC tradition. The ribs and fried catfish are crowd-pleasers too, but it’s the hog that steals the show—crisp skin, juicy meat, and all. Pair it with collards and cornbread, and you’ve got a plate that sings. With lines out the door since its 2017 opening, it’s a pilgrimage spot for BBQ diehards. Best for: award-winning whole-hog bliss.
3. Skylight Inn – Ayden, NC
Since 1947, Skylight Inn has kept it simple and legendary. Known as the “Capital of ’Cue,” this Eastern NC icon sticks to the basics: whole hogs cooked over hardwood, chopped with cleavers, and seasoned with vinegar, salt, and pepper—no fancy sauces needed. The cornbread’s thick and gritty, the slaw’s tangy, and the vibe’s straight out of a time capsule—complete with a replica Capitol dome on the roof. It’s been featured on Food Network and racked up accolades, including a loyal following that spans generations. One bite, and you’ll get why it’s a cornerstone of Carolina BBQ culture. Best for: no-frills Eastern NC authenticity.
4. Lewis Barbecue – Charleston, SC
Texas meets the Carolinas at Lewis Barbecue, where pitmaster John Lewis (a Lone Star State transplant) fires up some of the juiciest brisket this side of the Mississippi. Since opening in 2016, it’s become a Charleston staple, blending SC’s pork heritage with Texas-style beef. The pork ribs glisten with a sweet glaze, the pulled pork gets a light vinegar mop, and the brisket—oh, the brisket—melts like butter after 18 hours in the smoker. Sides like green chile corn pudding and collard greens round out a feast that’s earned praise from Eater and Bon Appétit. The picnic-table patio and craft beer list make it a hangout as much as a meal. Best for: a smoky fusion of styles.
Why These Joints Stand Out
The Carolinas’ BBQ scene is a patchwork of traditions—vinegar-based in the east, mustard-based in the south, and tomato-tinged in the west. Lexington Barbecue nails the Piedmont’s subtle sweetness, while Skylight Inn keeps Eastern NC’s purist roots alive. Rodney Scott elevates SC’s whole-hog game with finesse, and Lewis Barbecue bridges regions with bold, beefy flair. Each spot has its own story, its own smoke, and its own die-hard fans. Together, they showcase why the Carolinas are a BBQ lover’s paradise.
Plan Your BBQ Road Trip
Ready to taste the best? Start in Lexington, NC, just off I-85, then cruise east to Ayden’s Skylight Inn (about an hour away). Hop across the state line to Charleston, SC (a 4-hour drive), where Rodney Scott’s and Lewis Barbecue are just miles apart. Bring stretchy pants and an empty stomach—these joints don’t mess around. Pro tip: call ahead for hours, especially at Skylight, where they close when the pork runs out.
The Carolinas have more BBQ than you can shake a rib at, but these four are unmissable. Got a favorite BBQ spot we skipped? Spill the sauce in the comments!
