When it comes to barbecue, North Carolina is a state that takes its ‘cue very seriously. With a rich history and a variety of regional styles, the Tar Heel State is a barbecue lover’s paradise. But among all the great barbecue cities in North Carolina, there’s one that stands out from the rest: Lexington.
A Brief History of Barbecue in Lexington
Lexington, a small city located in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, has been a barbecue hub for over a century. The city’s barbecue tradition dates back to the early 1900s, when pit-cooked meat was served at family gatherings and community events. Over time, Lexington-style barbecue evolved into a distinct style that’s characterized by its use of pork shoulder, a tangy vinegar-based sauce, and a focus on traditional cooking methods.
The Birth of Lexington-Style Barbecue
The story of Lexington-style barbecue begins with a man named Sid Weaver, who opened the first barbecue restaurant in Lexington in 1919. Weaver’s restaurant, which was called the Barbecue Center, quickly became a local favorite, and its success helped establish Lexington as a barbecue destination. Today, the Barbecue Center is still open for business, and it remains one of the most popular barbecue joints in the city.
What Makes Lexington-Style Barbecue So Special?
So, what sets Lexington-style barbecue apart from other regional styles? Here are a few key factors that contribute to its unique flavor and character:
Pork Shoulder: The Star of the Show
In Lexington, pork shoulder is the meat of choice for barbecue. This cut of meat is slow-cooked over wood or charcoal until it’s tender and juicy, and it’s often served with a side of tangy barbecue sauce. The pork shoulder is typically cooked in a pit, which is a large, brick-lined oven that’s designed specifically for slow-cooking meat.
Vinegar-Based Sauce: A Key Component of Lexington-Style Barbecue
The barbecue sauce used in Lexington is a key component of the city’s barbecue style. Unlike the sweet, tomato-based sauces used in other parts of the country, Lexington-style sauce is made with vinegar, water, salt, and pepper. This tangy sauce is applied to the meat during the cooking process, and it helps to add flavor and moisture to the pork.
Traditional Cooking Methods: A Focus on Pit-Cooking
In Lexington, traditional cooking methods are still used to prepare barbecue. The city’s pit-cookers use large, brick-lined pits to slow-cook their meat, and they often cook their ‘cue over wood or charcoal. This traditional approach to cooking helps to add a rich, smoky flavor to the meat, and it’s a key factor in the city’s barbecue style.
Lexington’s Barbecue Scene Today
Today, Lexington is home to over 20 barbecue restaurants, each with its own unique take on the city’s traditional barbecue style. From classic joints like the Barbecue Center to newer restaurants like Barbecue Lodge, there’s no shortage of great barbecue in Lexington.
Popular Barbecue Joints in Lexington
Here are a few popular barbecue joints in Lexington:
- Barbecue Center: This classic barbecue joint has been serving up Lexington-style ‘cue since 1919. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to try the city’s traditional barbecue style.
- Scott’s Bar-B-Q: This family-owned barbecue joint has been a Lexington staple for over 30 years. It’s known for its tender, smoky meat and its tangy barbecue sauce.
Visiting Lexington: A Guide to the City’s Barbecue Scene
If you’re planning a visit to Lexington, here are a few tips to help you navigate the city’s barbecue scene:
Getting There
Lexington is located in the heart of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, and it’s easily accessible by car. The city is about an hour’s drive from Charlotte, and it’s just a few hours from Raleigh and the Research Triangle.
Where to Stay
Lexington has a range of hotels and motels to choose from, including budget-friendly options like the Lexington Inn and more upscale choices like the Hampton Inn. If you’re looking for a unique place to stay, you might consider the Barbecue Lodge, which offers barbecue-themed rooms and a restaurant on site.
What to Do
In addition to trying the city’s famous barbecue, there are plenty of other things to do in Lexington. The city has a rich history, and it’s home to a number of historic sites and museums. You might consider visiting the Lexington Historic Depot, which offers tours of the city’s historic train depot, or the Davidson County Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the city’s history and culture.
Conclusion
Lexington, North Carolina is a city that’s famous for its barbecue, and for good reason. With its rich history, traditional cooking methods, and tangy vinegar-based sauce, Lexington-style barbecue is a unique and delicious twist on the classic ‘cue. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking to try something new, Lexington is a city that’s definitely worth visiting. So why not start planning your trip today, and get ready to taste some of the best barbecue in the country?
What is the Barbecue Capital of North Carolina?
The Barbecue Capital of North Carolina is Lexington, a city located in the central part of the state. Lexington has been known for its barbecue for many years and has even been officially recognized as the Barbecue Capital of North Carolina by the state legislature.
Lexington-style barbecue is a unique and delicious variation of traditional barbecue. It is characterized by its use of pork shoulder, which is slow-cooked over wood or charcoal until it is tender and flavorful. The barbecue is then served with a variety of toppings, including a tangy barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and crackers.
What makes Lexington-style barbecue unique?
Lexington-style barbecue is unique due to its use of pork shoulder, which is slow-cooked over wood or charcoal until it is tender and flavorful. The pork is typically cooked for several hours, which allows it to absorb all of the flavors of the smoke and the seasonings. This slow-cooking process gives Lexington-style barbecue its distinctive flavor and texture.
Another factor that makes Lexington-style barbecue unique is the type of sauce that is used. Lexington-style barbecue sauce is a vinegar-based sauce that is tangy and slightly sweet. It is applied to the pork during the last stages of cooking, which allows it to caramelize and add a rich, depth of flavor to the meat.
What are some popular barbecue restaurants in Lexington?
There are several popular barbecue restaurants in Lexington, including Scott’s Bar-B-Q, Barbecue Center, and Jimmy’s Bar-B-Q. These restaurants have been serving up delicious Lexington-style barbecue for many years and are highly recommended by locals and visitors alike.
Each of these restaurants has its own unique atmosphere and menu offerings. Scott’s Bar-B-Q is known for its traditional Lexington-style barbecue, while Barbecue Center offers a variety of barbecue dishes, including barbecue plates, sandwiches, and salads. Jimmy’s Bar-B-Q is a popular spot for barbecue and other Southern favorites, such as fried chicken and catfish.
What is the annual Barbecue Festival in Lexington?
The annual Barbecue Festival in Lexington is a popular event that takes place every October. The festival celebrates the city’s rich barbecue heritage and features a variety of activities, including live music, food vendors, and a barbecue cook-off.
The festival also includes a parade, a carnival, and a variety of other activities for kids and adults. Visitors can sample a variety of barbecue dishes from local restaurants and vendors, and vote for their favorite in the barbecue cook-off. The festival is a fun and delicious way to experience the best of Lexington’s barbecue culture.
Can I take a barbecue tour in Lexington?
Yes, there are several barbecue tours available in Lexington that allow visitors to sample the city’s famous barbecue and learn about its history and culture. These tours typically include visits to several local barbecue restaurants, as well as other attractions related to the city’s barbecue heritage.
The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insight into the history and traditions of Lexington-style barbecue. Visitors can sample a variety of barbecue dishes and learn about the different techniques and ingredients that are used to make this unique style of barbecue.
What are some other attractions in Lexington?
In addition to its barbecue, Lexington has a variety of other attractions that are worth visiting. The city has a rich history and culture, and there are several museums and historic sites that showcase this heritage. The Lexington Historic Depot District is a popular attraction that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Visitors can also explore the nearby High Rock Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
How do I get to Lexington, North Carolina?
Lexington is located in the central part of North Carolina, about 20 miles south of Winston-Salem. The city is easily accessible by car, and there are several major highways that pass through the area. Visitors can also fly into the nearby Piedmont Triad International Airport, which offers flights to destinations throughout the United States.
Once you arrive in Lexington, there are several options for getting around the city. Visitors can rent a car or take a taxi or Uber to get to their destination. The city also has a public transportation system that includes buses and a downtown shuttle.