Savoring Cary's Best BBQ: Essential and Surprising Spots for True Smoke Lovers
What began as a popular food truck has blossomed into one of Cary’s most respected barbecue restaurants. The Humble Pig, run by husband-and-wife team Ross and Joey McCarthy, brings a creative yet reverent approach to North Carolina barbecue. Their menu highlights expertly smoked pork, brisket, and inventive sides like jalapeño mac and cheese, earning high marks from local critics and a nod from Southern Living for their commitment to quality and community. The casual, family-friendly setting makes it a favorite for both barbecue purists and those looking to try something new.
Smokin’ B’s brings a Texas twist to Cary’s barbecue offerings, serving up juicy smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage with a Lone Star state sensibility. Featured by Cary Living and praised by local foodies for its melt-in-your-mouth meats and flavorful rubs, Smokin’ B’s is a must-try for anyone looking to explore regional barbecue styles without leaving town. The menu is refreshingly straightforward, focusing on quality and technique above all else.
While City Barbeque has a few locations, the Cary restaurant is locally owned and has earned a strong reputation for its dedication to quality and community involvement. Recent features in Triangle Business Journal and positive reviews from local diners highlight their hand-pulled pork, brisket, and scratch-made sides. Their support for local charities and commitment to authentic, wood-smoked barbecue make it a meaningful addition to Cary’s BBQ scene.
Danny’s Bar-B-Que stands as a Cary classic, beloved for its tender hickory-smoked meats and friendly, no-nonsense atmosphere. Since 1994, this family-run spot has attracted loyal crowds with its pulled pork, St. Louis ribs, and tangy house-made sauces—each batch slow-cooked and served with a side of local pride. Recognized by INDY Week and Eater Carolinas, Danny’s remains a go-to for those seeking barbecue that’s both deeply rooted in tradition and unfailingly satisfying. Whether you dine in or grab takeout, Danny’s delivers consistent, flavorful barbecue that’s stood the test of time.
Just a stone’s throw from Cary’s western edge, Ole Time Barbecue is a fixture for fans of true-blue North Carolina BBQ. Family-owned and operated since 1993, this spot is lauded by Southern Living and the News & Observer for its chopped pork, crispy hushpuppies, and old-school charm. While technically just outside Cary, it remains a local favorite for Cary residents seeking an authentic, nostalgic barbecue experience away from the crowds.
Brew N Que merges two local passions—craft beer and barbecue—under one roof, making it a standout among Cary’s newer culinary ventures. Their menu features slow-smoked meats and inventive sides, like pimento cheese grits, alongside a rotating tap list of North Carolina brews. Praised by Triangle Food Blog and featured in local media for its lively atmosphere and creative pairings, Brew N Que offers a contemporary twist on the BBQ experience while still honoring Southern traditions.
While not traditional Southern barbecue, Seol Grille offers a flavorful exploration of Korean BBQ, earning a spot in Cary Magazine’s best new restaurants. Guests grill marinated meats tableside, experiencing a communal dining tradition that’s both interactive and delicious. The quality of ingredients and attentive service have made Seol Grille a standout for those seeking something beyond the usual pulled pork—perfect for groups or anyone curious about global barbecue traditions thriving in Cary.
Adding a dash of discovery to Cary’s barbecue landscape, the Little Blue Macaron BBQ Pop-Up offers a rotating menu of smoked meats and creative sides, often appearing at local breweries and farmers’ markets. Praised by INDY Week and local food blogs for its bold flavors and inventive mashups—think smoked brisket sandwiches on homemade rolls—this pop-up embodies the spirit of Cary’s evolving food scene. Check their social media for locations and times, as the menu changes frequently.