# Best Barbecue and Smoked Meats in the NC Triangle

> Lawrence Barbecue and Sam Jones BBQ are top contenders, but don't overlook Dampf Good BBQ—there’s potential for a surprise upset.

*By Ron Wen · Published October 18, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/best-barbecue-and-smoked-meats-in-the-nc-triangle*

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## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Lawrence Barbecue - Cary**
   A new and refreshed take on Texas barbecue from pitmaster Jake Woods
2. **Dampf Good BBQ - Cary**
   Top-notch Texas-style barbecue from the Dampf family.
3. **Prime Barbecue - Knightdale**
   A classic Texas barbecue joint from Pitmaster Chris Prieto
4. **Sam Jones BBQ - Raleigh**
   Classic Eastern NC barbecue from acclaimed pitmaster, Sam Jones.
5. **East of Texas - Durham**
   A new option for smoked meats and Tex-Mex eats.
6. **The Pit - Raleigh**
   The OG barbecue restaurant of the NC Triangle from Empire Eats.
7. **The BBQ Lab - Raleigh**
   A fun spot for Texas barbecue conveniently located at North Hills.
8. **The Pig - Chapel Hill**
   Classic NC barbecue from pasture raised pigs and hushpuppies
9. **Longleaf Swine**
   Texas barbecue updated for today's diners.

Tags: food, barbecue, north carolina, raleigh-durham, smoked meats