Picnic

"Whether you’ve never had our state’s BBQ, or you grew up on it, you should visit Picnic for a plate of whole hog that holds true to North Carolina’s barbecue traditions. This northwest Durham outpost is a bit more expensive than some other options in town, but the slow-cooked pork is extremely high quality and the sides are fantastic. Try the fried okra and coleslaw, and save room for dessert staples like the banana pudding and chocolate chess pie. Picnic’s casual dining room and covered porch are always full of kids and their parents, making it feel like a cross between a community center and a large family reunion." - eric ginsburg

"Picnic offers locally sourced whole hog barbecue alongside an expansive menu of Southern classics like a fried catfish sandwich, deviled eggs, Brunswick stew, and more. The menu often changes with new specials and homemade desserts making star appearances — keep an eye out for the Picnic burger. A full bar serves beer, wine, and cocktails, with catering and takeout also available." - Matt Lardie

"Whether you’ve never had our state’s BBQ, or you grew up on it, you should visit Picnic for a plate of whole hog that holds true to North Carolina’s barbecue traditions. This northwest Durham outpost is a bit more expensive than some other options in town, but the slow-cooked pork is extremely high quality and the sides are fantastic. Try the fried okra and coleslaw, and save room for dessert staples like the banana pudding and chocolate chess pie. Picnic’s casual dining room and covered porch are always full of kids and their parents, making it feel like a cross between a community center and a large family reunion. photo credit: Anna Barzin" - Eric Ginsburg

"Most people go to Picnic for the whole hog barbecue, but customers shouldn’t sleep on the Picnic burger. Two patties, crafted with house-ground brisket and bacon (from the same place the pigs come from for the joint’s hyped barbecue), are topped with Picnic sauce, pimento cheese, pickled red onion, and bread and butter pickles — sandwiched between a Martin’s potato roll. Burgers also come with a side of choice, and no judgment if that side just so happens to be mac and cheese." - Jenn Rice

"Wyatt Dickson, pitmaster/owner of Picnic and Wyatt’s Whole Hog BarbecueThat we bounce back leaner and meaner than ever before." - Erin Perkins