Camel City BBQ Factory

Got a hankering for barbecue while exploring Winston-Salem’s vibrant Downtown Arts District? Hop over to Camel City BBQ Factory. The multi-level downtown eatery is a win for everyone, young or old, offering a full bar, top-level arcade, classic tabletop video games, and various lawn games. In addition to Lexington-style barbecue plates and sandwiches, the menu features some new-age options like smokehouse nachos and a factory brisket melt.

TIP: Don’t skip the smoked wings! They’re some of the best in town. 

East of Texas

Inspired by the owner Claire Calvin's Texas roots, East of Texas smokes up Southwest bbq classics like beef brisket, pork ribs, and burnt ends. Their open-air dining room and expansive outdoor patio have plenty of room, and they even host outdoor events when the weather is nice. Add in the bonus of being dog- and kid-friendly, this is the ultimate stop for a group outing.

TIP: Check out the daily/weekly food specials for something fresh and unique. 

Little Richards

Hickory-smoked Lexington-style barbecue is the specialty at Little Richards Bar-N-Que. What began as a humble family-run barbecue joint has now grown to five locations across the Piedmont Triad area — including one in the nearby Village of Clemmons. But when you’re in Winston-Salem, you can hop over to the flagship location near the Five Points area of Stratford Road (just across from Thruway Center.)

TIP: While you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, we suggest going for any of the “Mexi-cue” taco options for a unique twist on the Southern classic.

Mr. Barbecue

You know the food has got to be good when there’s a line out the door to get it! Located on Peters Creek Parkway, just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, Mr. Barbecue is a no-frills joint for classic Lexington-style barbecue, chopped sandwiches, Brunswick stew, and classic sides (hushpuppies, red slaw, and more). An old-school, family-run restaurant spanning over 60 years and two generations, their pit-cooked barbecue is consistently delicious and keeps locals lining up.

TIP: For an authentic experience, we recommend grabbing one of their classic chopped sandwiches with BBQ slaw and hushpuppies. 

Real Q

With a menu of genuine, pit-cooked barbecue, Real Q has been serving its signature Lexington-style barbecue since 1991. You can’t go wrong with anything on their extensive menu, but if you make it on a Friday or Saturday, you have to try the BBQ chicken special. Also, in case you don't have much background in the great NC barbecue debate, there are two main varieties: Eastern and Western (also known as Lexington). Among the differences is the sauce: while sauces are vinegar-based, Lexington BBQ mixes in traces of ketchup and spices for a thicker, tangier twist.

TIP: You can't beat the classics, so try the chopped BBQ sandwich but if you happen in on a Friday or Saturday, you have to try the BBQ chicken special.

Clarks BBQ (Kernersville)

A favorite of barbecue aficionados near and far, Clarks BBQ in Kernersville uses time-honored methods and family recipes to create their locally famous Lexington style ‘cue. Get ready for lots of flavor and large portions with plenty of sides and veggie options. Clarks is located right off of Highway 66 in Kernersville, making this the perfect stop for exploring other favorites in the area like the Ciener Botanical Gardens and a variety of local breweries. 

TIP: Try the pork ribs if you visit on the weekend, but otherwise order a chopped sandwich paired with your favorite side. 

Prissy Polly's (Kernersville)

Located right off Highway 66 in Kernersville, Prissy Polly’s menu has both styles of North Carolina barbecue (Eastern and Western), but they’re most famously known for their sweet and tangy version of Western/Lexington-style pork ‘cue. Need your order in a hurry? They even have a drive-thru!

TIP: At Prissy Polly’s, you can keep it simple: go for a classic BBQ plate (Eastern or Lexington) with slaw. 

Yardbird BBQ (hidden gem)

If you want to go the extra mile and eat like a local, don't skip a trip to Yardbird BBQ. A bona fide hidden gem, this family and black-owned BBQ food stand in the Southside area of Winston-Salem specializes in brisket and ribs. Don’t let its hole-in-the-wall appearance fool you; the meats here are some of the finest in town. We suggest going for the juicy brisket or beef burnt ends — and don’t forget to ask for a side of candied yams and collard greens! While hours often vary, the family regularly posts their operating times on their Facebook page.