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.
This was my first time eating here after being in NC for almost 30 years. From the outside it doesn’t look appealing so I never had the desire to come. I was craving BBQ last week and I decided to google places and I noticed the reviews were good for this place so I met a friend there. The best part about this place was the complimentary hush puppies which were fresh, hot and delicious. My friend and I ate 3 baskets lol. We both ordered the special of the day which was $10.99. The special was beef tips in gravy over white rice & 2 sides. For my 2 sides I got the Mac & cheese & mashed potatoes with gravy. Nothing in that plate was good at all. I was full from the hush puppies so I only tried all of the food and took the rest to go. I tried eating it the next day and it was still terrible. The waitress and staff were extremely friendly and kind but the dish I ordered wasn’t good at all. I was highly disappointed with the food. The hush puppies were amazing though. I won’t ever be back but I’m glad I tried it. The parking lot is small and not easy to park especially if you have a large vehicle. I would carpool if going as a group.
Morgan Fowler
Google
Absolutely delicious. The ribs are mouth watering. BBQ pork the best I’ve ever had. Love the coleslaw, hush puppies, everything.
Casey Angel
Google
Absolute perfection! The staff was SO NICE and this is the kind of hometown atmosphere you want from North Carolina. We had a little bit of everything, but the Barbecue Sandwich with Slaw was an A+ and I loved the collard greens. My wife was a huge fan of the mashed potatoes and gravy as well! We will be back many, many times.
Jennifer
Google
First time eating here today. It was delicious. I was so pleasantly surprised when we received a basket of hush puppies as soon as we sat down. Yum! Tender pulled pork. Mac n Cheese and mashed potatoes were perfect comfort food sides. The staff was so friendly and helpful. We will absolutely be back!
Eric M
Google
My word they’ve got hushpuppies on tap and they’re delicious!
Warm, friendly, inviting people working here. Great food for a great price. Love the vibe.
Some favorites are the fried chicken, baked beans, and potato salad. I’ll eat that potato salad by the pound. The in-house bbq and hot sauces are divine. That hot sauce is so peppery and so good.
YUM!
John Fulford
Google
Though the chicken was a bit dry, I don’t think it was a typical experience. Greens were excellent as well as the Mac and cheese. The coleslaw was fresh with a nice peppering. Service/staff were on it and the low brow humor could be found throughout. Enjoyed it and would go back.
Ashley Rogers
Google
Recommend with 10 stars if I could!! We ate here on a whim from Google Maps, and let me tell you it DID NOT disappoint!!! The staff were so polite and nice when greeting us!! The food was so very good, but even if it had just been okay they service would have been enough to make me go back again. Loved every bit of it! Also get the pork rinds on your way out best road trip snack!!!
Casey Wells
Google
You will definitely understand why this place has been around for so long. For my first time having Carolina BBQ, y'all sure didn't disappoint 😋. However, I must I just must compliment your chicken pastry. Thank you for a trip down memory lane. I haven't had that good since my great auntie passed away. Wish I had brought a cooler. I'd take loads back to Kentucky.
High-quality great little place with a kitchy atmosphere