Value in Cocktail Whiskey

Cocktail whiskey demands consistency, proof, and balance, and it doesn't demand prestige, because mixed drinks transform a spirit's profile through dilution, citrus, bitters, syrups, and ice. A $25-$50 bottle will often outperform an expensive one, so it should offer consistency, enough proof to mix well, and flavors that play well together, thus for stirred drinks, such as Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, use 45-50% ABV, and for sours, highballs, and long drinks, use 40-46% ABV. Buy widely available bottles if you make cocktails often, because this ensures that you can easily restock your favorite whiskey, and therefore, it is a good idea to choose a widely available brand.

Great Whiskey for Mixing

Proof and structure: Higher proof helps flavors persist and lends strength to stirred drinks, and therefore, Bottled-in-Bond at 50% ABV works well in Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Boulevardiers, because it provides the necessary strength and flavor. Balanced flavors: Cocktails need whiskeys with clear flavors like vanilla, caramel, baking spice, and orchard fruit, so avoid too much smoke or tannin, and don't use heavily peated Scotch or perfumed cask finishes for everyday mixing, because they can overpower the other flavors in the cocktail. Consistency and availability: If you make cocktails at home or for parties, choose a bottle that tastes the same every time, and buy brands sold everywhere, because this ensures that you can get the same flavor consistently, and therefore, it is a good idea to choose a widely available brand. Price-to-performance: Save $10 to buy better vermouth, fresh citrus, or ice, because this will make your drinks better than buying a more expensive whiskey, and thus, it is a good idea to prioritize the quality of your mixers over the price of your whiskey.

Top Bourbons for Cocktails Under $50

Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond (50% ABV)
Why it's good: Sweet corn and spicy oak with extra proof for strength, and it is a good choice for Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, Gold Rush, Boulevardier, because it provides the necessary strength and flavor, and therefore, it is a good idea to use it in these cocktails. Use in: Old Fashioned, Whiskey Sour, Gold Rush, Boulevardier, and buy where: Total Wine in Wilmington, DE and Columbia, SC; Schneider's of Capitol Hill in Washington, DC; ABC stores in Virginia and North Carolina; The Wine Source in Baltimore, MD, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Wild Turkey 101 (50.5% ABV)
Why it's good: Spicy and caramel flavors that work in bitter and citrus drinks, and thus, it is a good choice for Old Fashioned, Paper Plane, Brown Derby, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and therefore, it is a good idea to use it in these cocktails. Use in: Old Fashioned, Paper Plane, Brown Derby, and buy where: MacArthur Beverages in DC, Virginia ABC in Richmond and Arlington, and NC ABC in Raleigh and Charlotte, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Buffalo Trace (45% ABV)
Why it's good: Vanilla, toffee, and baking spice, and it works in sours and stirred drinks, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Whiskey Sour, Boulevardier, Old Fashioned, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Whiskey Sour, Boulevardier, Old Fashioned, and buy where: Silver Spring and Bethesda, MD; NC ABC in Durham; Greens in Columbia, SC, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Four Roses Small Batch (45% ABV)
Why it's good: Blended recipes give floral spice and fruit, and it is good with citrus and honey, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Gold Rush, Whiskey Sour with egg white, Manhattan with light, fruity taste, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Gold Rush, Whiskey Sour with egg white, Manhattan with light, fruity taste, and buy where: Schneider's in DC, MD stores in Towson and Annapolis, and VA ABC in Northern Virginia, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Best Rye Whiskey for Cocktails Under $50

Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond (50% ABV)
Why it's good: Strong rye spice, cocoa, and citrus peel, and it is perfect proof for stirred drinks, because it provides the necessary strength and flavor, and thus, it is a good choice for Manhattan, Sazerac, Vieux Carré, because it provides the necessary strength and flavor. Use in: Manhattan, Sazerac, Vieux Carré, and buy where: Schneiders DC, VA ABC in Alexandria, MD stores in Baltimore, and SC chains in Charleston, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Old Overholt 100 Proof (50% ABV)
Why it's good: Clean rye taste with a hint of sweetness, and it is very versatile, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Ward Eight, Highball, Whiskey Smash, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Ward Eight, Highball, Whiskey Smash, and where to buy: NC ABC stores in Asheville and Greensboro; Total Wine stores in Wilmington, DE and Columbia, SC, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Bulleit Rye (45% ABV)
Why it's great: Straightforward, minty rye that plays well with ginger, citrus, and bitters, and thus, it is a good choice for Rye Mule, Smash, Boulevardier, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and therefore, it is a good idea to use it in these cocktails. Use in: Rye Mule, Smash, Boulevardier, and where to buy: Available in VA and NC ABC stores, as well as large stores in DC and MD, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Sazerac Rye (45% ABV)
Why it's great: Orange peel, vanilla, and peppery rye spice, and it is elegant, but muscular, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Sazerac, Manhattan, Old Pal, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Sazerac, Manhattan, Old Pal, and where to buy: Occasionally available; look for small stores in the DC and MD suburbs, and ask VA ABC store managers, because they may be able to special order it.

Blended Scotch for Cocktails Under $50

Monkey Shoulder (43% ABV)
Why it's great: Malty, honeyed, and lightly fruity with a nice body for citrus and ginger, and thus, it is a good choice for Penicillin, Scotch Sour, Rob Roy with a softer profile, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Penicillin, Scotch Sour, Rob Roy with a softer profile, and where to buy: MacArthur Beverages (DC), The Wine Source (Baltimore, MD), and Total Wine stores in Greenville, SC, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Famous Grouse (40% ABV)
Why it's great: Well-balanced malt-and-grain blend that is smooth and inexpensive, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Highball, Hot Toddy, Presbyterian, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Highball, Hot Toddy, Presbyterian, and where to buy: Widely available in DE, MD, and SC supermarkets with liquor sections; also NC ABC stores in Wilmington and Raleigh, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Johnnie Walker Black Label (40% ABV)
Why it's great: Light smoke and dried fruit add complexity without overwhelming a cocktail, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Penicillin variations, Rob Roy, Rusty Nail, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Penicillin variations, Rob Roy, Rusty Nail, and where to buy: Widely available in DC, VA ABC stores, and MD; check stores in Annapolis, Arlington, and Bethesda, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Irish Whiskey for Cocktails Under $50

Jameson Black Barrel (40% ABV)
Why it's great: Additional char adds caramel and spice that work well in coffee and citrus drinks, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Irish Coffee, Irish Sour, Highball with lemon, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Irish Coffee, Irish Sour, Highball with lemon, and where to buy: Widely available in DC and Baltimore; often found in VA and NC ABC stores, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Bushmills Black Bush (40% ABV)
Why it's great: Sherry-influenced richness adds depth to sours and toddies, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Whiskey Sour with demerara, Hot Toddy, Irish Boulevardier, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Whiskey Sour with demerara, Hot Toddy, Irish Boulevardier, and where to buy: Look in DE stores near Newark and Wilmington, MD stores in Towson, and SC stores in Charleston and Columbia, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Powers Gold Label (43.2% ABV)
Why it's great: Grain-forward spice and orchard fruit, and it is perfect for tall, refreshing drinks, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Highball, Gold Rush with an Irish twist, Tipperary-style variations, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Highball, Gold Rush with an Irish twist, Tipperary-style variations, and where to buy: Good availability in DC small stores, VA ABC stores in Richmond, and NC ABC stores in Durham and Chapel Hill, because these stores typically carry this brand.

American Whiskey and Wheated Options Under $50

Larceny Small Batch (46% ABV)
Why it's great: Wheated mash bill lends soft vanilla and bread notes, and it works well with citrus and honey, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Gold Rush, Whiskey Smash, Old Fashioned with orange bitters, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Gold Rush, Whiskey Smash, Old Fashioned with orange bitters, and where to buy: Widely available throughout VA and NC ABC stores; check DE and MD big-box stores, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Old Forester 100 Proof (50% ABV)
Why it's great: Assertive brown sugar and spice, and it is a classic for Old Fashioneds, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, it is a good choice for Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, Whiskey Cola with quality cola and citrus, because it provides the necessary flavor and strength. Use in: Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, Whiskey Cola with quality cola and citrus, and where to buy: Available in DC, Baltimore, Northern Virginia, and NC ABC stores in Charlotte, because these stores typically carry this brand.

Mixers and Vermouths for Budget Whiskey
Fresh citrus is more important than fancy syrups, so squeeze lemons and limes on the same day and store juice in the refrigerator for up to a few hours, because this will help to preserve the flavor and strength of the citrus, and therefore, it is a good idea to use fresh citrus in your cocktails. Use high-quality demerara or turbinado sugar in 1:1 or 2:1 syrups for improved texture and flavor, because this will help to add depth and complexity to your cocktails, and thus, it is a good idea to use high-quality sugar in your syrups. When it comes to vermouth, a $50 whiskey will shine with a $15-$25 fortified wine that is stored properly, because this will help to add depth and complexity to your cocktails, and therefore, it is a good idea to choose a high-quality vermouth.

For Manhattans and Boulevardiers, I recommend Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, Carpano Antica, or Dolin Rouge, because they provide the necessary flavor and strength, and thus, they are good choices for these cocktails, and for lighter Scotch or Irish drinks, Dolin Dry and Blanc are good, because they provide the necessary flavor and strength, and therefore, they are good choices for these cocktails. Always store open vermouth and amari in the fridge and consume within a month for optimal flavor, because this will help to preserve the flavor and strength of the vermouth and amari, and thus, it is a good idea to store them properly.

Proof and Cocktail Pairing Guide
40-43% ABV
Use for: Highballs, Irish Coffees, Tom & Jerry, Hot Toddies, lighter sours, because this proof works well with dilution and hot drinks, and thus, it is a good choice for these cocktails, and the reason is that lower proof blends well with dilution and hot drinks.
44-46% ABV
Use for: Sours, Smashes, Penicillins, Gold Rushes, because this proof provides sufficient body to stand up to citrus without becoming overly strong, and thus, it is a good choice for these cocktails, and the reason is that sufficient body stands up to citrus without becoming overly strong.
50%+ ABV
Use for: Stirred and spirit-forward classics like Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Boulevardier, Old Pal, Sazerac, because extra structure stands up to bitters, amari, and dilution, and thus, it is a good choice for these cocktails, and the reason is that extra structure stands up to bitters, amari, and dilution.

Regional Buying Tips in DE, DC, VA, NC, MD, and SC
Delaware: Check out Total Wine in Wilmington and local shops in Newark for Rittenhouse, Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond, and Monkey Shoulder, because these stores typically carry these brands, and therefore, it is a good idea to check them out.
District of Columbia: MacArthur Beverages and Schneider's of Capitol Hill are great for rye and vermouth, because they offer many options and competitive pricing, and thus, it is a good idea to check them out.
Virginia: The ABC system ensures uniform pricing throughout the state, and areas like Arlington, Alexandria, and Richmond frequently have solid selections of Wild Turkey 101, Old Forester 100, and Four Roses Small Batch, because these stores typically carry these brands, and therefore, it is a good idea to check them out.
North Carolina: NC ABC stores in Raleigh, Charlotte, Durham, and Asheville carry staples like Bulleit Rye, Larceny, and Powers, so consult county websites for inventory when available, because this will help you to find the whiskey you are looking for, and thus, it is a good idea to check the websites.
Maryland: Baltimore's The Wine Source and shops in Bethesda and Silver Spring are excellent for Jameson Black Barrel, Black Bush, and Cocchi vermouths, because these stores typically carry these brands, and therefore, it is a good idea to check them out.
South Carolina: Explore Charleston and Columbia for broad selection, and Total Wine stores typically carry Rittenhouse, Old Overholt 100, and Famous Grouse, because these stores typically carry these brands, and thus, it is a good idea to check them out.

Easy, Dependable Cocktail Recipes to Try
Old Fashioned
2 oz Evan Williams Bottled-in-Bond
0.25 oz demerara syrup (2:1)
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange twist
Stir with ice, strain over a large cube, express orange oils, because this will help to add depth and complexity to the cocktail, and thus, it is a good idea to use this recipe.
Whiskey Sour
2 oz Four Roses Small Batch
0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
0.75 oz simple syrup (1:1)
Optionally add egg white
Shake vigorously, strain over fresh ice; garnish with lemon zest or a cherry, because this will help to add depth and complexity to the cocktail, and thus, it is a good idea to use this recipe.
Manhattan
2 oz Rittenhouse Rye
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura
Stir and strain into a chilled glass; add a cherry, because this will help to add depth and complexity to the cocktail, and thus, it is a good idea to use this recipe.
Penicillin (Scotch Sour with Ginger-Honey)
2 oz Monkey Shoulder
0.75 oz lemon juice
0.75 oz honey-ginger syrup
Shake and pour over ice; optionally add a teaspoon of smoky Scotch on top if desired, because this will help to add depth and complexity to the cocktail, and thus, it is a good idea to use this recipe.

Final Tips to Extract Maximum Flavor for Minimum Cost

Use large, clear ice to slow dilution in stronger drinks, because this will help to preserve the flavor and strength of the drink, and thus, it is a good idea to use large, clear ice. Keep bitters fresh and experiment with varieties other than Angostura such as orange, walnut, or aromatic blends, because this will help to add depth and complexity to your cocktails, and therefore, it is a good idea to experiment with different bitters. Track your preferences by pairing proof levels with drink categories, because this will help you to find the perfect whiskey for your cocktails, and thus, it is a good idea to track your preferences. Be open-minded about brands-if Buffalo Trace is unavailable, use Old Forester 100 in stirred drinks or Larceny in sours, because this will help you to find a suitable substitute, and thus, it is a good idea to be open-minded about brands. With these bottles and proper technique, you'll produce bar-quality cocktails for under $50, because this will help you to create delicious and affordable cocktails, and thus, it is a good idea to follow these tips.

Nothing brings people together quite like a seafood boil. Whether it’s shrimp, crab, crawfish, lobster, clams, or mussels poured out onto a newspaper-lined table, the magic is in the seasoning. The right combination of spices doesn’t just flavor the shellfish — it ties the entire communal eating experience together. A properly spiced seafood boil is bold, aromatic, and layered with flavor, making each bite memorable.

If you’ve ever wondered what spices create that lip-tingling, finger-licking sensation at a great seafood boil, you’re in the right place. This deep dive explores essential spices, how to use them, and why different seafood lovers gravitate toward this Southern-inspired feast.

Who Might Love Seafood Boil Seasoning?

Seafood boil spices aren’t just for chefs in Louisiana kitchens. They appeal to:

• Seafood enthusiasts who want rich, bold flavor rather than plain steamed shellfish.
• Southern cooking fans who crave authentic Cajun and Creole tastes.
• Foodie adventurers who love experimenting with layered spice blends.
• Backyard hosts aiming to create a fun, communal, and flavorful gathering.
• Fitness-minded eaters who appreciate that seafood boils can be healthy yet indulgent when seasoned well.
• Heat seekers who thrive on spicy, peppery food experiences.

Simply put, anyone who loves seafood + spice + good company will fall for a well-seasoned seafood boil.

The Art of Seasoning a Seafood Boil

Seasoning a seafood boil isn’t just tossing spices into boiling water. The flavors should penetrate the seafood, vegetables, and broth — so when you bite into corn on the cob or sausage, it tastes just as bold as the shrimp or crab.

Good seafood boil seasoning has three flavor layers:

1. Base Flavor – hearty spices that give warmth (paprika, garlic, onion).
2. Heat Elements – chilies, cayenne, peppercorns for kick.
3. Aromatic Notes – bay leaf, thyme, celery seed for balance.

Perfect boils balance these without overwhelming the delicate seafood.

Essential Spices for a Perfect Seafood Boil

1. Old Bay Seasoning

No seafood boil discussion is complete without Old Bay Seasoning. Originating in Maryland, it’s a blend of over 18 spices including celery salt, paprika, and mustard seed.

• Why it works: It’s versatile, zesty, and instantly recognizable.
• Flavor profile: Savory, slightly spicy, with hints of celery and mustard.
• Best for: Crab boils, especially blue crab.

2. Paprika

Paprika provides the vivid red hue that seafood boils are famous for. Depending on the type, it contributes smokiness or sweetness.

• Why it works: Adds depth without overpowering the seafood.
• Types to try:
  • Sweet paprika for mild sweetness.
  • Smoked paprika for earthy, campfire-like depth.
  • Hot paprika for a spicy kick.

3. Cayenne Pepper

If you want heat, cayenne is king. A little goes a long way, but it’s crucial for a classic Louisiana-style boil.

• Why it works: Boosts the liveliness of the boil.
• Pro tip: Adjust based on your guests’ tolerance — seafood boils shouldn’t be painful to eat.

4. Garlic Powder & Fresh Garlic

Garlic is an essential backbone flavor. Many boils use both garlic powder for even distribution and fresh minced garlic in the broth.

• Why it works: Infuses everything with rich, savory aroma.
• Pro tip: Roast garlic beforehand for a milder, sweeter undertone.

5. Onion Powder

Often overlooked, onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and body to the broth. Combined with garlic, it’s a powerful one-two punch.

6. Black Pepper & White Pepper

Pepper provides a sharp, peppery heat that’s different from chili varieties. White pepper is common in Cajun cooking for its earthy flavor.

• Why it works: Layered heat, especially in long boils.
• Pro tip: Use cracked peppercorns for visual flair and bolder bites.

7. Bay Leaves

These add herbal complexity, balancing the richness of butter and sausage.

• Why it works: Keeps the broth from being too heavy.
• Pro tip: Always remove before serving — bay leaves aren’t meant to be eaten.

8. Mustard Seeds & Ground Mustard

A traditional spice in many seafood seasonings, mustard adds tang and sharpness.

• Why it works: Cuts through the heaviness of shellfish and potatoes.

9. Celery Seed

Celery seed provides a grassy, slightly bitter kick that balances bolder spices. It’s one of the main notes in Old Bay.

10. Lemon & Citrus Elements

While not technically a spice, citrus zest and juice are essential for brightness. Lemon wedges, orange peel, or even dried lemon powder amplify seafood freshness.

11. Thyme & Oregano

These herbs offer earthiness and tie the boil to traditional Cajun seasoning blends.

• Why it works: They balance out intense spices with aromatic warmth.

12. Chili Flakes & Whole Dried Chilies

For willful chili lovers, crushed red pepper and dried chilies add layers of heat.

• Why it works: Different types of chilies = different spice tones (fruity, smoky, sharp).

13. Allspice & Cloves (optional but unique)

Not always traditional, but some Gulf Coast boils include warming spices like allspice or cloves for depth.

Beyond Spices: Supporting Ingredients

A seafood boil is more than just seafood and spices. The supporting cast soaks up all that flavor:

• Corn on the cob – sweet crunch balances the heat.
• Andouille sausage – smoky, spicy sausage elevates the boil.
• Potatoes – creamy texture absorbs seasoning beautifully.
• Butter – often melted with seasoning for dipping sauces.

These ingredients absorb all the spice-laden broth, making them as irresistible as the seafood.

Mixing Your Own Seafood Boil Seasoning Blend

If you want to skip store-bought spice packets and craft your own, here’s a balanced DIY blend (enough for 6 lbs of seafood):

• 3 tbsp paprika
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cayenne (adjust to taste)
• 2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tsp mustard powder
• 2 tsp celery seed
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2–3 bay leaves (for the pot, not mixed in)
• Zest of 1 large lemon

Mix the dry ingredients together. Add to boiling water along with salt and fresh garlic.

Regional Variations of Seafood Boil Seasonings

Seafood boils vary depending on geography:

Cajun Boil (Louisiana & Gulf Coast)

• Heavy on cayenne, paprika, garlic, and thyme.
• Bold heat is the star.

Creole Boil (New Orleans)

• More herbs like oregano and parsley.
• Slightly milder than Cajun but aromatic.

Low Country Boil (South Carolina / Georgia)

• Relies heavily on Old Bay.
• Often includes beer in the cooking liquid.

Chesapeake Bay Crab Boil (Maryland)

• Classic Old Bay-packed pots.
• Lemon and mustard seeds stand out.

Pairing the Right Spices with Different Seafood

Different seafood absorbs flavor differently. For example:

• Shrimp: Cooks quickly, so strong spices like paprika and garlic powder infuse best.
• Crab: Bolder spices (cayenne, mustard seed) cut through sweetness.
• Crawfish: Handles heavy seasoning well — best with Cajun-style blends.
• Lobster: Softer, sweeter flesh pairs well with citrus-heavy blends.
• Clams & Mussels: Absorb broth, so use aromatic spices like bay leaf and thyme.

Who Should Dial the Spice Up or Down?

• Spice lovers: Go heavy on cayenne, chili, and black pepper.
• Families with kids: Use paprika and garlic for rich flavor without overwhelming heat.
• Health-conscious eaters: Lean on herbs, citrus, and less salt.
• Party hosts: Aim for a balanced spice mix so everyone enjoys it.

Tips for Getting the Perfect Balance

1. Layer the seasoning – season the water, the seafood, and the butter sauce.
2. Taste the broth before adding seafood – adjust spice level then.
3. Don’t oversalt – remember sausage and seasoning packets often contain sodium.
4. Serve with flavored butter dips – combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of your boil blend.

Conclusion

A seafood boil is more than a meal — it’s a celebration. And the seasoning is what transforms good seafood into unforgettable seafood. The perfect boil has spice that excites without overwhelming, herbs that balance, and citrus that brightens.

Whether you stick to the iconic Old Bay, whip up your own Cajun-inspired blend, or experiment with regional flair, the right mix of spices turns a pile of shellfish into an experience that lingers long after the plates are cleared.

So the next time you gather friends and family, remember: the secret isn’t just in the seafood … it’s in the spice.

Best Cities for BBQ

North Carolina is known for its delicious barbecue, and there are many great cities in the state where you can find some of the best NC BBQ Restaurants in the country. Here are 11 of the best cities for barbecue in North Carolina:

1. Lexington - Lexington is known as the "Barbecue Capital of the World," and it is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state. The city is famous for its Lexington-style BBQ, which is characterized by slow-smoked pork shoulder that is seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. The meat is usually served with a side of slaw and hushpuppies. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Lexington include Lexington Barbecue and Lexington Barbecue #2.

2. Kinston - Kinston is a small town in Eastern North Carolina that is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its whole-hog BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Kinston include B's Barbecue and Parker's Barbecue.

3. Wilson - Wilson is another small town in Eastern North Carolina that is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Eastern-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Wilson include Wilber's Barbecue and Big Daddy's Barbecue.

4. Greenville - Greenville is a city in Eastern North Carolina that is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Eastern-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Greenville include B's Barbecue and Parker's Barbecue.

5. Raleigh - Raleigh is the capital city of North Carolina and is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Lexington-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Raleigh include The Pit and The Pit Authentic Barbecue.

6. Durham - Durham is a city in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina that is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Lexington-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Durham include The Pit and The Pit Authentic Barbecue.

7. Charlotte - Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina and is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Lexington-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Charlotte include The Pit and The Pit Authentic Barbecue.

8. Asheville - Asheville is a city in the western part of North Carolina that is known for its delicious BBQ. The city is home to some of the best BBQ joints in the state, and it is particularly famous for its Lexington-style BBQ. The meat is cooked over an open pit and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce. Some notable BBQ restaurants in Asheville include The Pit and The Pit Authentic Barbecue.

Happy hunting and enjoy your BBQ where ever you go.