7 North Carolina BBQ Buffets That Locals Hold Sacred
North Carolina takes barbecue seriously, with traditions dating back generations. Across the state, certain BBQ buffets have earned legendary status among locals who guard their favorite spots like family secrets.
From eastern vinegar-based sauces to western tomato-infused recipes, these seven buffets serve up authentic Carolina BBQ that keeps folks coming back for seconds, thirds, and sometimes fourths!
1. Casey’s Buffet BBQ & Home Cooking – Wilmington, NC
A coastal gem tucked away in Wilmington, Casey’s combines Southern hospitality with pit-smoked perfection. Locals line up before opening time to secure their spot at the buffet table.
Their vinegar-based pulled pork practically melts in your mouth, while the crispy cracklin’ cornbread has converted many a visitor into a regular. The sweet tea flows freely, just as Carolina tradition demands.
2. Ralph’s Barbecue – Weldon, NC
Since 1941, Ralph’s has been perfecting the art of eastern-style whole hog barbecue. Family-owned for generations, this Weldon institution draws pilgrims from across state lines.
The secret? Slow-cooking pork shoulders over oak and hickory for 12+ hours before chopping it fine and dressing it with their tangy vinegar sauce. Don’t miss their Brunswick stew – a side dish that locals consider mandatory with every visit.
3. Bum’s Restaurant – Ayden, NC
Fourth-generation pit master Larry Dennis carries on the wood-fired tradition at this Ayden landmark. Whole hogs cook overnight in brick pits, creating that distinctive smoky flavor that defines eastern Carolina BBQ.
The buffet features the region’s signature chopped pork, but regulars know to save room for the yellow cornbread and collard greens. Founded in 1963, Bum’s remains proudly old-school – cash only and closed on Sundays.
4. Grandsons Buffet – Hope Mills, NC
Walking into Grandsons feels like a family reunion where BBQ is the guest of honor. This Hope Mills favorite strikes the perfect balance between quantity and quality with their expansive buffet.
Their pulled pork carries that distinctive smoke ring, but locals know the hidden treasures are the country-style steak and hand-breaded chicken. The banana pudding – topped with fresh meringue instead of whipped cream – causes regular disputes over who gets the last serving.
5. Chima Steakhouse – Charlotte, NC
Charlotte’s upscale twist on the buffet concept comes in the form of this Brazilian rodizio. Not traditional Carolina BBQ, but locals have embraced Chima’s parade of fire-roasted meats as an honorary member of the state’s BBQ family.
Gauchos circle the dining room with skewers of picanha, filet mignon, and ribeye, sliced directly onto your plate. The garlicky chimichurri sauce has inspired many attempts at home recreation. Reservations essential – especially on weekends.
6. Jimmy’s Seafood Buffet – Kitty Hawk, NC
Outer Banks visitors might raise eyebrows seeing a seafood spot on a BBQ list, but Jimmy’s earns its place with spectacular pulled pork that shares buffet space with fresh-caught seafood. This unique combination represents coastal Carolina’s culinary identity.
The pork shoulder gets a 12-hour smoke treatment before meeting Jimmy’s signature vinegar sauce. Pair it with locally harvested oysters or steamed crab legs for a surf-and-turf experience that defines Outer Banks dining. Summer waits can stretch past an hour.
7. Carolina Buffet – West Columbia, SC
Though technically across the state line, Carolina Buffet has enough North Carolina transplants as regulars to qualify for honorary Tar Heel status. Their mustard-forward sauce reflects South Carolina traditions while still offering vinegar options for NC purists.
The buffet features both chopped and pulled pork, with bark (the caramelized exterior) mixed throughout. Thursday’s hash and rice – a South Carolina specialty – draws crowds from both Carolinas. Pro tip: their banana pudding uses vanilla wafers baked in-house.
