I C.
Yelp
GUIDE TO ENJOYING COROLLA VILLAGE BAR-B-QUE (lolllll):
Discovered this place on my last beach trip - had overlooked it on previous trips - probably because if you blink when driving by, it's so tiny you'll miss it lol.
But I do recommend this no-nonsense-no-muss-no-fuss little BBQ joint if you're up (North) Corolla way and are looking for a true down home, freshly 'qued, well-executed BBQ pork sandwich that's worth the price.
And I'm telling you - the food is FRESHLY BBQ'ED. I was there about an hour before the place opened - to grab a mid morning coffee at Kind Cup (HIGHLY RECOMMEND - read my review!) - and the beautiful, savory scent of smoked meats was emanating from the little shack. I knew I had to hang around the area long enough till this place opened to try me some bar-b.
CVB is located conveniently right on the grounds of the historic Corolla Village - where the Corolla Lighthouse and historic Whalehead Club reside. It's a realllly quaint pseudo old-timey historic area and if you've never ventured to that area, you have to check it out - at least just once.
CVB has parking available there but basically park anywhere around that historic area and you'll be fine - everything you'll want to see is pretty much within walking distance - even the short walk to the beautiful grassy area (behind the yellow Whalehead Club) with a picturesque view of the sound.
We liked the BBQ pork sandwiches so much we went a second time during our visit. Both times, we ordered the basic pulled pork sandwiches a la carte for $9 each. You can order the sandos with or without cole slaw ON the sandwich (they clearly state you can't get the slaw "on the side" lol). I RECOMMEND GETTING IT WITH THE SLAW. The slaw isn't super saucy and runny that it will make your sandwich / bun soggy thus, surprisingly, it's not messy to eat - and the slaw really does add to the overall flavor of the sandwich. GET IT. :)
The first time we went, we arrived drinkless. First and last time we will make that mistake!
PRO TIP: Not bringing your own drink will cost you. $3-4 each for a bottled soda/water/iced tea! Save yourself the dough and BYOBeverage!
PRO TIP2: Ditto for chips if you're like me and like your BBQ sando with salty chips to accompany it. Just throw a bag of chips in your car or tote and save yourself and your party the extra expense of buying bags of chips there.
PRO TIP3: JUST STAY AND EAT THERE! The ambiance there is superb! And there are plenty of picnic tables (shareable) and adirondack chairs provided by CVB (most under shady trees!) to hang and enjoy your meal! Afterwards, take some time to walk around the historic village! Mosey over to the lighthouse or to the Whalehead Club or grab a latte at The Kind Cup steps away (inside Kind Cup is an AMAZING shop with local artisan finds and trinkets and there are also some tables and adirondack chairs on the other side of Kind Cup where there's a beautiful botanical flower garden!) or walk down a few steps to the indie Island Bookshop to browse their selection of summer / beach reads and titles (something for all ages).
The only pics I didn't take were of the sandwiches themselves! DOH! Trust me though - they were delicious, GENEROUSLY LOADED with amazing, smokey bbq pork and housemade creamy cole slaw. The many variations of their housemade BBQ sauces as squeeze-ons sit atop the order/pick up counter and are amazingly delicious, further adding to the overall deliciousness of the sandwich.
CVB is a definite destination "CHEAP EATS" in Corolla North serving authentic, no nonsense BBQ. The pulled pork sandwich (skip the higher priced platters and combos which don't add much for the buck anyway and keep-it-simple-stupid and just go for the sandwich) is worth the price. I can't believe I'm saying this but even during the busy season with a longer wait due to longer lines, it's worth it. Patience my friend, patience. Don't be in a hurry, take in the vibe and surroundings while you wait and ENJOY the BBQ treat when your name is called. :)