Fayetteville, North Carolina, is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the South, where the smoky aromas fill the air and the flavors keep you coming back for more. I love BBQ, I have had the pleasure of sampling some of the finest dishes this city has to offer. Whether you’re a long-time BBQ enthusiast or a first-timer, this guide will lead you to the best spots to savor smoky meats, tangy sauces, and classic Southern sides.
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In this article, I’ll introduce you to five of the best BBQ restaurants in Fayetteville, along with my personal recommendations, must-try dishes, and practical tips for booking, dining, and making the most of your experience.
1. The Pit – Authentic Eastern North Carolina BBQ
Location: 409 N McPherson Church Rd, Fayetteville, NC
Overview:
The Pit is not just another BBQ restaurant—it’s a true representation of Eastern North Carolina’s BBQ culture. This place has earned a stellar reputation for serving authentic slow-cooked pork, and the experience is nothing short of memorable. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by the rustic, welcoming atmosphere, complete with exposed brick walls and wooden accents. It’s the kind of place where you feel right at home, ready to indulge in some seriously good food. The casual yet warm vibe makes it a great spot for both a quick bite and a leisurely meal with friends or family. The scent of smoky meats immediately fills the air, giving you a sneak peek into the goodness that awaits.
The focus at The Pit is on Eastern North Carolina BBQ, which is characterized by slow-cooked, wood-smoked pork with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce. This is a must-try experience if you’re looking for that genuine, Southern BBQ flavor.
Must-Try Dish:
- Pulled Pork Plate – This is the dish that defines the restaurant. The pulled pork at The Pit is cooked low and slow until it’s perfectly tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Served with a generous drizzle of the house-made vinegar-based BBQ sauce, it’s a true taste of the region. The pork is finely shredded, allowing every bite to be infused with that signature smoky, tangy sauce. Alongside the pork, you’ll get a side of fluffy hushpuppies that are crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- BBQ Ribs – If you’re more of a ribs fan, The Pit’s fall-off-the-bone BBQ ribs are a must. These ribs are slow-smoked to perfection, giving them that deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. The seasoning is just right—not too overpowering, but enough to make each bite burst with flavor.
Price Range:
A meal at The Pit is well worth the price. Expect to spend around $12-$20 per person for a plate of BBQ with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. If you’re in the mood for a combo with additional meats, or if you opt for the ribs, the cost can go up to about $25 per person. For the quality of food and portion sizes, I’d say it’s a solid deal.
Booking Tips:
While The Pit can sometimes get busy, especially during weekends or holidays, it’s definitely worth the wait. To ensure a smooth dining experience, I recommend calling ahead for a reservation if you’re planning to visit during peak hours. You can also check availability through platforms like OpenTable or Yelp Reservations. Many guests find that checking for specials or signing up for the restaurant’s newsletter can provide access to exclusive offers and discounts. Keep an eye on their social media pages for any updates on promotions or events that could enhance your visit. If you’re not in the mood to dine in, consider placing a take-out order through Grubhub or DoorDash, both of which deliver from The Pit, so you can enjoy the BBQ at home or in a nearby park.
Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ lover or a first-timer, The Pit is the perfect place to dive into the authentic flavors of Eastern North Carolina BBQ. The atmosphere, service, and, of course, the food make it a standout dining destination in Fayetteville.
2. Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q – A Fayetteville Institution
Location: 6601 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville, NC
Overview:
If you’re in the mood for classic Southern BBQ combined with fried chicken, Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q is the place to go. This local favorite has been serving up its mouthwatering BBQ for years and is famous for its perfectly smoked meats and delicious sides.
Must-Try Dish:
- Bar-B-Q Chicken Plate – The BBQ chicken is smoked to perfection, and the skin is slightly crispy while the meat remains juicy and flavorful. Served with your choice of sides, it’s a hearty meal that will leave you satisfied.
- BBQ Pork Sandwich – If you’re craving a lighter meal, the BBQ pork sandwich is a great option. The smoky pork is piled high on a soft bun, and the sauce adds just the right amount of tanginess.
Price Range:
The prices at Smithfield’s are incredibly reasonable, with meals averaging around $8-$15 per person. For a complete meal with drinks and sides, it will likely be closer to $15.
Booking Tips:
Smithfield’s is usually pretty quick to seat diners, but during peak times, it can get crowded. You can place an order online through Grubhub or DoorDash if you prefer to pick up or have your meal delivered.
3. Bubba’s 33 – Southern BBQ with a Twist
Location: 3472 Ramsey St, Fayetteville, NC
Overview:
For those looking for a BBQ experience with a bit of a modern twist, Bubba’s 33 delivers. This vibrant and trendy spot offers a fusion of traditional BBQ with contemporary flavors, perfect for groups or families looking to enjoy a more casual atmosphere.
Must-Try Dish:
- Bubba’s Signature Baby Back Ribs – These ribs are glazed with a sweet, smoky sauce that balances the heat with sweetness, making each bite a burst of flavor. The meat is tender, and the portion size is generous.
- Pulled Pork Sliders – These sliders are a great option if you want to sample some BBQ but don’t want a full meal. The pulled pork is succulent and pairs perfectly with the tangy sauce.
Price Range:
A meal at Bubba’s 33 typically costs between $10-$20 per person, depending on what you order. The portions are large, so it’s definitely worth the price.
Booking Tips:
Bubba’s 33 offers both dine-in and take-out options. For the best deal, consider booking a table through Yelp Reservations. On nights with live music or special events, it can get crowded, so be sure to reserve a table ahead of time.
4. The Bar-B-Q Center – Traditional BBQ with a Southern Touch
Location: 1985 Skibo Rd, Fayetteville, NC
Overview:
If you want to experience classic North Carolina BBQ, The Bar-B-Q Center is a must-visit. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious BBQ for over 40 years, and it’s one of Fayetteville’s most beloved spots. The menu is full of traditional favorites, and you can taste the authenticity in every bite.
Must-Try Dish:
- Pulled Pork Plate – Served with their famous coleslaw and hushpuppies, the pulled pork at The Bar-B-Q Center is unbeatable. The pork is slow-cooked and perfectly seasoned, with a balance of smoky and tangy flavors.
- BBQ Chicken – For those who want a lighter BBQ option, the BBQ chicken at The Bar-B-Q Center is tender and flavorful, glazed with their signature sauce.
Price Range:
A full meal will cost you between $12-$18, depending on what you choose. The portions are generous, and the food is always fresh.
Booking Tips:
The Bar-B-Q Center is quite popular, so if you’re planning to visit on the weekend, consider calling ahead to check wait times or make a reservation.
5. King’s Bar-B-Q – A Fayetteville Tradition
Location: 1420 N McPherson Church Rd, Fayetteville, NC
Overview:
A local favorite for more than 40 years, King’s Bar-B-Q serves up some of the best BBQ in town. Known for its down-home vibe and unbeatable flavors, it’s the perfect spot for a hearty, Southern-style meal.
Must-Try Dish:
- BBQ Pork Plate – King’s BBQ pork is finely chopped and served with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce. It’s a great choice if you want an authentic taste of North Carolina BBQ.
- BBQ Chicken Wings – King’s wings are smoked and grilled, offering a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with their signature BBQ sauce.
Price Range:
Meals at King’s typically range from $10-$15, making it one of the most affordable BBQ joints in town.
Booking Tips:
King’s is great for a casual dining experience, and reservations are usually not needed. However, during peak hours, you may need to wait a bit. To avoid this, consider visiting during off-peak times or placing an order for takeout via DoorDash.
Where to Book Your BBQ Experience
When planning your visit to Fayetteville’s best BBQ restaurants, there are several platforms to help you with reservations, delivery, and reviews:
- OpenTable – Perfect for making reservations at popular spots like The Pit and Bubba’s 33.
- Yelp – Use Yelp to read customer reviews, check restaurant ratings, and sometimes book a table or look for special discounts.
- Grubhub and DoorDash – For takeout or delivery options, both platforms offer a variety of BBQ choices from these restaurants.
- Booking.com and Expedia – For finding nearby accommodations close to your favorite BBQ joint.
- Priceline – Ideal for booking flights and finding the best deals on travel.
Fayetteville offers a rich variety of BBQ flavors, each restaurant showcasing its own take on the classic Southern dish. Whether you’re craving pulled pork, ribs, or smoked chicken, these top BBQ spots in Fayetteville will deliver an unforgettable meal.
