5 Best Barbecue Joints in Winston-Salem, North Carolina to Try

You can’t talk about Carolina barbecue without mentioning Winston-Salem—a city where hickory smoke, chopped pork, and tangy, tomato-vinegar sauce are the glue of local food culture.

Here, pitmasters serve it up Lexington-style (that’s pork shoulder, coarsely chopped, and red slaw on the side), but you’ll also find a new wave of joints experimenting with brisket and ribs.

Winston-Salem blends traditional comfort with new-school BBQ creativity.

Little Richard’s BBQ

One of the Triad’s most beloved, Little Richard’s keeps it true to Lexington-style barbecue—smoky, chopped pork shoulder, zippy red “dip” sauce, hush puppies, and a big scoop of vinegary red slaw.

The prices are fair, the service is fast, and the hush puppies alone are worth a detour.

Multiple locations make it easy to find, and every one has that welcoming, North Carolina “y’all come in” energy.

Camel City BBQ Factory

Bringing a touch of the modern smokehouse vibe, Camel City pairs long-smoked meats with creative takes (BBQ nachos, smoky wings, brisket chili).

Their decor is all Winston-Salem pride (murals, vintage signs), and families love the arcade games alongside the traditional plates.

The pork is classic, but adventurous eaters can also try brisket, burnt ends, or loaded BBQ burgers.

Mr. Barbecue (aka Mr. BBQ)

Back after a devastating fire, Mr. Barbecue is a Winston-Salem classic reborn.

They specialize in coarsely chopped pork, dressed in that tangy red sauce, served with fluffy hush puppies, slaw (choose red or white), and crinkle-cut fries.

Go for the BBQ tray—simple, satisfying, and exactly what Southern barbecue is supposed to be.

Honky Tonk Smokehouse

Blending tradition with a touch of honky tonk attitude, this joint is known for its smoked chicken, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and smoky brisket.

The cornbread and collard greens could hold their own at any soul food spot, and the casual atmosphere is perfect for a long, sticky-fingered meal.

They’re big on supporting local musicians, so you might catch some live blues while you chow down.

Real Q

Family-run and packed with charm, Real Q delivers hickory-smoked barbecue that’s all about heritage.

Their pork shoulder is tender and full of woodsy flavor, and plates come with a satisfying mountain of hush puppies, slaw, and beans.

There’s a real sense of local pride here—and a commitment to North Carolina’s BBQ roots—making Real Q a must for any first-timer.