I’m not sure there’s a more pro-BBQ city in America than Lexington, North Carolina – or one that’s as proud of its BBQ traditions. And there might not be a BBQ aficionado who’s luckier than me, or at least that’s how I was feeling as I rolled into town just in time for Lexington’s annual Barbecue Festival.
This small town (population 19,000) is home to its own signature Lexington style of BBQ (also known as Piedmont or Western Carolina style). Made with wood-smoked (a mix of hickory and oak) and chopped pork shoulder (aka Boston butt) and usually served “wet” with a vinegar and ketchup based red sauce, the BBQ as a sandwich or more typically as a tray jammed full of BBQ and a side of “red” coleslaw that’s been mixed with the same red sauce instead of mayonnaise, and hushpuppies. It’s distinctive and delicious.
The argument that the way they do ‘que in Lexington is America’s most authentic method is a strong one. Known by many as the “Barbecue Capital of the World,” there’s been a restaurant in town since 1919 when local farmer Sid Weaver set up a tent and started selling his smoked pork to folks coming out of the courthouse at lunchtime. And the roots of barbecue continue to be unearthed here. Recent renovations and building works at the City Hall have uncovered the pits of the old Beck’s Barbecue restaurant from the 1950s.
Today there’s a thriving BBQ restaurant scene with a disproportionate number of quality eateries in town given its diminutive size. I had the pleasure of dining at two of the most acclaimed: The Barbecue Center and Lexington Barbecue.
The Barbecue Center
900 North Main Street, Lexington, North Carolina 27292
Once an ice cream parlor (and they still do a mean banana split), Barbecue Center has been in the Conrad family since 1955. My lunch tray was gorgeous. The hushpuppies are awesome and addictive (I referred to them as “crack” during my visit).
Find out more at facebook.com/barbecuecenter.
Lexington Barbecue
100 Smokehouse Lane, Lexington, North Carolina 27295
Just outside the town center this family run eatery has been in business since 1962. Lots of folks (and major media outlets) claim it’s the best in town and even the whole state and among the very best in the nation. I love every bite of my tray.
Visit the restaurant online at lexbbq.com.
Lexington Barbecue Festival
Throughout Uptown Lexington
This downhome and family friendly street party occurs every October. 2015 marked this festival’s 32nd year, and I was glad to have the opportunity to celebrate the occasion with the good people of Lexington. While chowing down on BBQ and other regional treats in the autumn air, attendees can enjoy a range of local and touring acts performing music for free. Apparently Taylor Swift put on a legendary set here right before hitting the big time.
Make plans to attend the 2016 festival: barbecuefestival.com.
Beyond the Q
Holiday Inn Express ― The Vineyard
351 Vineyards Crossing, Lexington, North Carolina 27295
I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express on the outskirts of town. Quite new, ultra clean and with friendly staff, I was impressed with the hotel’s premium amenities including a heated indoor pool and 24-hour fitness center and its proximity to Childress Vineyards – one of North Carolina’s biggest and most successful wineries, owned by NASCAR notable Richard Childress. Details at ihg.com/holidayinnexpress and childressvineyards.com.
More
Learn more about Lexington at lexingtonnc.gov and the great state North Carolina at visitnc.com. For loads of help planning your trip to anywhere in the States, go to VisitTheUSA.com. And please be sure to keep an eye out for more BBQ Bound posts to come!
