5 North Carolina Food Halls Where You Can Sample Eastern And Lexington BBQ Under One Roof

When I first moved to North Carolina, I was immediately introduced to one of the state’s most fiery debates, Eastern vs. Lexington-style barbecue. It didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t just about food; it was about heritage, pride, and deep-rooted tradition.

Eastern-style loyalists champion the whole-hog method paired with a tangy vinegar-based sauce, while Lexington-style fans stand by their pork shoulder and slightly sweeter, tomato-tinged dip.

Fortunately for newcomers and curious foodies alike, several modern food halls across North Carolina now serve up both styles side by side, making it easier than ever to taste, compare, and choose your BBQ allegiance.

1. S&W Market: Asheville’s Art Deco BBQ Paradise

My jaw literally dropped when I first walked into S&W Market. Housed in a gorgeously restored Art Deco building that once served as a bustling cafeteria, this Asheville gem perfectly blends historic charm with mouthwatering aromas.

The regional BBQ stall here is my personal heaven, offering authentic whole-hog Eastern style with that signature vinegar punch alongside smoky Lexington-style pork shoulder. The tangy slaw options complement both styles perfectly!

What makes this spot extra special is enjoying these competing BBQ traditions while surrounded by stunning 1920s architectural details. The ornate ceiling alone is worth the visit, though the pulled pork is what will keep you coming back.

2. Durham Food Hall: Rotating BBQ Excellence

“Y’all gotta try both!” a fellow diner exclaimed when he spotted my indecision between Eastern and Lexington styles at Durham Food Hall. This industrial-chic space has quickly become my favorite lunch spot when I’m craving variety.

While not exclusively BBQ-focused, their rotating vendor lineup regularly features authentic pop-ups from legendary pitmasters. One weekend you might find whole-hog Eastern style with crackling skin, the next a Lexington shoulder specialist with that signature red dip.

The communal tables create a friendly atmosphere where BBQ debates flourish. I’ve made several friends here while comparing notes on smoke rings and sauce preferences!

3. The Pit at Warehouse District: Raleigh’s Upscale BBQ Haven

Whoever said you can’t enjoy fine dining and authentic BBQ clearly hasn’t visited The Pit! Located in Raleigh’s trendy Warehouse District, this upscale spot somehow manages to feel both sophisticated and down-home simultaneously.

Last month, I brought my BBQ-skeptic friend from California here. Her eyes widened as our server delivered both Eastern whole-hog with vinegar sauce and Lexington-style chopped shoulder with tomato-tinged dip on the same platter.

The brick walls and refined atmosphere elevate the experience beyond typical BBQ joints. Though they’ve added brisket to please Texas transplants, their dual Carolina pork offerings remain the true stars of their smoke-scented show.

4. Weaver Street Market at Carr Mill Mall: Carrboro’s Hidden Gem

Stumbling upon BBQ perfection happens in the most unexpected places! During a rainy Saturday farmers market visit, I ducked into Carr Mill Mall and discovered Weaver Street Market’s incredible food vendor area.

This laid-back venue blends market stalls with casual eateries, including rotating BBQ vendors that showcase North Carolina’s dueling traditions. The outdoor patio becomes BBQ central when weather permits, with smoke wafting from portable rigs.

What I love most is the authentic, no-frills approach. Pitmasters here focus on technique rather than fancy presentation. Both Eastern whole-hog and Lexington shoulder styles appear regularly, often served on simple paper plates with a pickle spear, exactly as proper BBQ should be!

5. Lexington Barbecue Festival: The Ultimate Pop-Up Food Hall

“Worth planning your entire year around!” That’s what my neighbor shouted when I mentioned I’d never attended the legendary Lexington Barbecue Festival. Technically not permanent, this October event transforms downtown Lexington into the world’s greatest BBQ food hall.

Picture this: over 20 pit-cooking restaurants concentrated in one smoky paradise. While Lexington-style naturally dominates, visiting Eastern-style whole-hog pitmasters make special appearances, creating the perfect BBQ showdown.

My first visit was a revelation, I sampled from six different vendors before surrendering to meat sweats! The festival atmosphere adds extra flavor, with live music, crafts, and thousands of fellow BBQ enthusiasts comparing notes on their favorite finds.