Durham stands proud as one of North Carolina’s great food cities—an innovative, soulful crossroads where time-honored barbecue meets chef-driven creativity.
Here, whole-hog ‘cue, hickory smoke, and zesty vinegar-based sauces are celebrated, but newcomers bring brisket, burnt ends, and even barbecue tofu into the fold.
From historic barbecue legends to lively new-school spots, Durham is a dreamy destination for anyone who believes pork should be smoked—and bathed in tangy sauce.
The Original Q Shack
This American Tobacco Campus staple is a crash course in Carolina-meets-Texas barbecue. The Q Shack’s pork is chopped, tender, with just the right amount of smoky bite—and their brisket and ribs are equally standout.
Fill your tray with hush puppies, collard greens, and the unforgettable jalapeño cheese grits.
Try the banana pudding for dessert and bask in the bustling, family-friendly vibe.
Picnic
Farm-to-smokehouse is the mantra at Picnic. Here, pasture-raised hogs become beautifully smoked barbecue, cut whole hog and served in both Eastern and Lexington styles.
Sides are scratch-made and seasonal (mac and cheese, cucumber salad, cheerwine BBQ beans), and the banana pudding is legendary.
Their slow-cooked brisket is a must for beef lovers, while the outdoor patio buzzes during good weather.
Bullock’s Bar-B-Cue
A Durham institution since the 1950s, Bullock’s is pure nostalgia with red-checked tablecloths and recipes passed down for generations.
Their pork is classic North Carolina style—tender, pulled, and paired with hush puppies and Brunswick stew.
Regulars know to order extra fried chicken as a side, and many swear by the peach cobbler. This is true “feed the whole family” BBQ.
Heavenly Buffaloes (BBQ Wings & Sandwiches)
While known most for their wings, Heavenly Buffaloes’ “pit-style” smoked wings and BBQ chicken sandwiches are a delicious twist on local traditions.
The smoked vegan “wings” also put this spot on the map with plant-based fans.
Their house Carolina gold sauce is a tangy highlight, and the energetic, casual patio makes for a relaxed meal.
Lawrence Barbecue
Located at Boxyard RTP, Lawrence Barbecue brings creative, chef-driven flair to classic barbecue.
Their brisket is fat-marbled and juicy, pork belly burnt ends are decadent, and sides like kimchi slaw and pimento cheese grits give Southern ‘cue a modern twist.
The outdoor seating and cocktail bar invite lingering, and the daily “market board” keeps adventurous regulars coming back.
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