Raleigh–Durham, NC
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In season through February 15part of Game Day in Raleigh–Durham
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Start a Top 5 for BBQEditor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in The News & Observer. Updated September 2026.
Prime Barbecue · Knightdale
The News & Observer describes Christopher Prieto's Knightdale smokehouse through its Texas brisket, mahogany ribs, and weekend whole hog. Prime brings those traditions together in one focused counter-service menu, with the Saturday hog adding mojo and crisp cracklins to the regular lineup of slowly smoked meats.
Sam Jones BBQ · Downtown Raleigh
Sam Jones carries a third-generation Eastern North Carolina whole-hog practice into downtown Raleigh. The News & Observer highlights the hand-chopped pork and the restaurant's place in the Triangle's current dining landscape. Order the whole hog to experience the smoke, skin, and vinegar-seasoned style that define the Jones family tradition.
Longleaf Swine · Downtown Raleigh
Longleaf Swine centers whole-hog Carolina barbecue in a contemporary downtown Raleigh setting. Start with chopped pork before exploring the rotating smoked meats and sides.
Lawrence Barbecue - Cary · Downtown Cary
The News & Observer calls attention to Lawrence Barbecue's inventive approach to smoked meats and composed sides. Now operating in downtown Cary, the restaurant keeps pulled pork sandwiches and barbecue plates at the center while treating accompaniments with equal care. The macaroni finished with crunchy crumbles and green onions captures that more playful style.