6 North Carolina Meat-And-Threes That Still Use Cast Iron And Real Butter
There’s something magical about walking into a restaurant where the aroma of real butter sizzling in cast iron skillets fills the air.
Here in North Carolina, we’re blessed with authentic meat-and-three joints that haven’t given in to modern shortcuts.
These beloved institutions serve up plates of Southern comfort just like grandma used to make – with genuine ingredients and time-honored cooking methods that you can taste in every bite.
1. Cast Iron Kitchen (Wilmington)
Last summer, I stumbled upon this Wilmington gem while escaping a sudden coastal downpour. The name doesn’t lie – virtually everything here touches seasoned iron before reaching your plate. Owner and chef Josh Petty proudly displays his collection of vintage skillets, some dating back to the early 1900s. Breakfast showcases their commitment to tradition – buttermilk biscuits emerge golden from cast iron, while grits simmer slowly in heavy pots.
The butter they use? Hand-churned from a local dairy farm, with a richness that no mass-produced stick could match. Regulars rave about the shrimp and grits, where plump local seafood meets creamy stone-ground goodness in a skillet sauce that’ll have you questioning every restaurant meal you’ve had before. Nothing here is rushed – these folks understand that good food takes time.
2. Aunt E’s Southern Cuisine (Greensboro)
Aunt E’s Southern Cuisine in Greensboro is a testament to timeless Southern cooking. The aroma of freshly cooked dishes fills the air as you walk into this cozy spot, where the history of Southern hospitality is served on every plate. Here, meals are crafted with love, using age-old techniques that honor tradition.
Every dish is prepared with cast iron pans and real butter, ensuring a depth of flavor that’s hard to match. From collard greens to fried chicken, Aunt E’s offers a menu that feels like a warm embrace. It’s a place where new memories are made, and old ones are cherished.
3. Rooster & The Crow (Wilmington)
At Rooster & The Crow in Wilmington, nostalgia is served on every plate. With a focus on authentic Southern cuisine, this beloved eatery uses cast iron skillets to prepare its famed fried chicken, ensuring each piece is crispy and flavorful.
The warm, wooden interiors reflect a welcoming atmosphere where diners can indulge in comfort food at its finest. Alongside the chicken, you’ll find perfectly whipped mashed potatoes and fresh green beans, all enhanced with real butter.
A local favorite, Rooster & The Crow prides itself on preserving the time-honored traditions of Southern cooking, making every meal a delightful experience.
4. Calvert’s Kitchen (Columbus)
In the heart of Columbus lies Calvert’s Kitchen, a charming spot that radiates Southern hospitality. Known for its mouthwatering meat-and-three plates, this eatery preserves the essence of traditional cooking. The rustic interior, adorned with vintage memorabilia, invites diners to savor meals cooked in cast iron skillets. Calvert’s dedication to using real butter in their dishes ensures every bite bursts with flavor, reminding patrons of timeless Southern kitchens. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Calvert’s offers a comforting taste of home.
The menu, featuring classics like fried chicken and collard greens, brings warmth to every table.
5. Parkside Restaurant (Raleigh, NC)
Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, Parkside Restaurant is where Southern comfort meets culinary excellence. Step inside and be greeted by the aroma of sizzling cast iron pans and melting butter. Each dish tells a story of tradition and taste.
The chef, with decades of experience, crafts meals that remind you of home-cooked Sunday dinners. Their fried chicken, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, is a crowd favorite. Pair it with collard greens and mashed potatoes for a true Southern feast.
Did you know Parkside’s secret? Real butter in every recipe enhances the richness and flavor of their dishes.
6. Marshall’s Main Street Cafe
Nestled in the quaint town of Marshall, Marshall’s Main Street Cafe captures the essence of Southern charm with every meal. From the moment you step in, the comforting aroma of sizzling butter welcomes you. The cafe’s commitment to using cast iron skillets is evident in their perfectly seared meats and crispy cornbread.
Every dish tells a story, with flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth. The rustic decor, with its vintage accents, mirrors the old-world techniques employed in the kitchen. Delight in the rich gravies, creamy mashed potatoes, and vibrant collard greens.
A meal here is more than just food; it’s a heartfelt experience, reminiscent of a Southern grandmother’s kitchen. Marshall’s Main Street Cafe is a haven for those seeking authenticity and tradition in every bite.