BBQ
We know how serious people are about the word barbecue, but here it means whole hog, slow-smoked, chopped, and christened with a vinegar based sauce.
Grady’s Barbecue – Dudley, NC
Steve and Gerri Grady and their family have blessed us all with the a classic whole-hog barbecue and homemade sides like grandma would make since 1986.
Located practically in the middle of nowhere, NC, you’re likely to never see it on a visit and just slightly more likely if you move to Wayne County. The smoke house is out back of an unassuming building less than ten miles out of town. There’s no need for an open sign, because if they are, there will be cars in the parking lot. We’re talking hand-written menus hanging on the wall. When you walk in you immediately know you haven’t made a mistake.
We lost bbq royalty in August of 2025 when Steve Grady passed away.
Wilber's Barbecue – Goldsboro, NC
Wilber Shirley knew what he was doing when he bought and rebranded Wilber’s in 1962. It’s what you expect of a sit-down Eastern NC barbecue restaurant. It gained fame and before you knew it presidents were sending Air Force One down to grab bbq for events at the White House.
The menu is pretty simple. BBQ, loose or on a sandwich, chicken, some “things” I tried once and won’t be trying again (gizzards since you’re asking), and a good selection of the sides you’d expect to see. When they bring out the hushpuppies ask for a side of chicken gravy to dip them in. Don’t ask questions. Just do it and get back on your diet tomorrow.
Wilber’s shut down for a brief period, but I’m personally thankful that the restaurant was able to open under new owners and is thriving.
Adams Roadside – Goldsboro, NC (Brisket Meatloaf)
We can’t wrap this up without giving a shout to these Wayne County joints too:
McCall’s
Go hungry. Bypass the menu for the buffet. Save room for desserts. There’s always chopped BBQ on the line, but there are so many great rotating options. Simple, but classic, the fried chicken with some Texas Pete is “winner winner chicken dinner.” And when I say save room for desserts I’m serious. There’s more than you’ll be able to sample.
Adams Roadside BBQ
More barbecue than BBQ, but this place still deserves a mention. A quick peek at their Facebook feed will give you an idea of what their menu looks like and it’s as good as it looks. There’s a few picnic tables outside, but this isn’t a dine-in kind of place. It’s an eat it fresh in the car kind of place. If you’re lucky enough to be here when they’re serving Brisket Meatloaf don’t pass up the opportunity.
Gents’ Bounty
A food truck that’s got a following that can rival a brick and mortar. Their BBQ is great, but it’s the sides I’m here for! Check their socials for locations, but it isn’t uncommon to see them parked downtown at night or at one of the local events.
