The Absolute Best Barbeque in Durham [Updated 2025]

After scouring the city and indulging in countless mouthwatering plates, I’ve narrowed down the ultimate list of 12 top barbeque spots that truly capture the heart and soul of Durham’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a long-time local or just passing through, you’re in for a treat that’s both smoky and savory!

Why trust my taste buds? I’ve spent years diving deep into Durham’s food culture, chatting with pitmasters, and savoring every bite. Each of these locations has its own unique flair and flavor profile, and I can’t wait to share the gems that made a lasting impression on me. Let’s dig in and discover where you can find that perfect plate of barbeque!

The Blue Note Grill

Highlights
Great live music
Good selection of drinks
Vibrant atmosphere
Sports on television
Busy and popular venue

The Blue Note Grill is more than just a place to satisfy your BBQ cravings; it’s a vibrant hub that harmonizes great food with live music. As soon as I stepped through the door, I was enveloped by an irresistible atmosphere that felt alive with energy. The aroma of smoky meats permeated the air, making my stomach rumble in delight.

What truly sets The Blue Note apart is its lively ambiance. With live music echoing in the background, every bite of my pulled pork sandwich felt like a celebration. Paired with a refreshing drink from their impressive selection, I was in BBQ heaven. The venue was busy, filled with energy and laughter, which only added to its charm.

If you catch a game on the television screens, you're in for even more excitement, as the vibe intensifies when fans cheer for their teams. So, whether you're watching the latest sports event or enjoying a Saturday night jam, The Blue Note Grill delivers a complete experience that goes way beyond just great barbeque. If you haven't been yet, do yourself a favor and dive into this unique blend of BBQ and music. You won't regret it!

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Lawrence Barbecue

Highlights
Flavorful smoked wings
Delicious sticky ribs
Tangy slaw steals the show
Unique Cheerwine BBQ sauce
Fast and friendly service

Lawrence Barbecue in Durham is nothing short of a mecca for barbecue lovers. As I stepped inside, the mouthwatering aroma of smoky goodness wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, setting the stage for what would be an unforgettable meal. The flavorful smoked wings were an absolute revelation, with just the right amount of char that made my taste buds sing. And oh, those sticky ribs—they practically fell off the bone, coated in a glaze that’s a delightful dance of sweet and savory.

But the crown jewel of my experience was the tangy slaw, which adds a refreshing crunch and surprisingly manages to steal the show alongside the meats. I can't forget to mention their unique Cheerwine BBQ sauce, a local twist that takes everything to another level!

The service felt like visiting a friend's home—fast and friendly, making you feel welcomed right off the bat. Overall, Lawrence Barbecue is a rich tapestry of flavors that leaves you yearning for more. If you’re in Durham and craving BBQ, this spot is a must-visit! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed; it truly raises the bar for barbecue in our beloved city.

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Byrd's BBQ Restaurant & Catering

Highlights
Perfect brisket
Tender fall-off-the-bone ribs
Excellent pulled pork
Tasty house vinegar sauce
Good selection of sides

Visiting Byrd's BBQ Restaurant & Catering in Durham was like embarking on a charming culinary adventure. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of smoked meats enveloped me, promising some truly delightful BBQ. Their brisket is nothing short of perfection—smoky, moist, and sliced with a precision that reveals its juicy interior.

But wait—let's talk about the ribs. Oh, the fall-off-the-bone tenderness! Each bite left me craving more, perfectly complemented by Byrd's tasty house vinegar sauce. It’s tangy without overpowering the natural flavors of the meat. And let’s not forget the pulled pork, which was wonderfully seasoned and so succulent that I found myself indulging a little more than I planned.

On the side, they offer a delectable selection that pairs exquisitely with the smoky delights. While savoring my meal, I couldn't help but smile; Byrd's has truly mastered the art of BBQ. Every dish reflects their dedication to quality and flavor, making this spot a top contender for the best barbeque in Durham. If you're a BBQ lover, I urge you to experience this gem—your taste buds will thank you!

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Dampf Good BBQ

Highlights
Amazing brisket
Spacious outdoor seating
Flavorful, simple sides
Hidden gem in the Triangle
Great for weekends

Dampf Good BBQ in Durham is truly a hidden gem in the Triangle, offering a delightful culinary escape for BBQ lovers like me. As I stepped into the charming outdoor seating area, I instantly felt the relaxed vibe perfect for a weekend hangout. The inviting atmosphere made it easy to settle in and prepare for what was to come.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the brisket. Oh, the brisket! It was nothing short of amazing, tender and bursting with flavor, it had me savoring every mouthful. Each bite was a testament to the care put into crafting the perfect BBQ. The sides, too, delivered a delightful experience, characterized by their flavorful simplicity. I couldn’t get enough of those perfectly seasoned beans and creamy coleslaw; they complemented the brisket effortlessly.

If you’re in search of the best barbeque in Durham, make sure to check out Dampf Good BBQ. It's a place that invites you to linger and indulge in some of the most delicious offerings around. I left with a full belly and a happy heart, already planning my next visit! Yum!

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City Barbeque

Highlights
Divine food for all tastes
Best beans with brisket
Excellent brisket and turkey
Delicious peach cobbler
Tasty sides like fried okra

City Barbeque in Durham is a true gem for barbecue aficionados! From the moment I stepped in, the aromas were enticing, promising something wonderful. I was eager to indulge in their menu, which offers divine food for all tastes—definitely a plus for groups with varying preferences.

I dove straight into their excellent brisket and turkey, each slice bursting with flavor and a perfect smoke ring. But the real star of my plate was their beans with brisket, which brought a hearty richness that danced on my palate. For sides, don’t skip their fried okra! It’s crispy and seasoned to perfection, a delightful companion to the main event.

As if I needed more reasons to love this place, I savored a serving of their delicious peach cobbler for dessert. It was a sweet, comforting finale that I could eat every day!

In my quest for the best barbeque in Durham, City Barbeque has certainly secured a top spot. With an inviting atmosphere and mouth-watering offerings, it's a must-visit for anyone craving the perfect plate of barbecue. You won't regret your culinary adventure here!

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Picnic

Highlights
Southern style food
Welcoming and accommodating staff
Clean dining area
Authentic Carolina BBQ
Delicious ribs and brisket

Picnic in Durham is a true gem for anyone who craves an authentic Southern barbeque experience. From the moment I crossed the threshold, I was greeted by a warm and accommodating staff who made me feel right at home. The atmosphere is not just inviting but also spotlessly clean, which adds to the overall pleasant dining experience.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the food! Their Carolina BBQ is nothing short of divine. I savored the tender ribs and richly smoked brisket, both bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Each bite transported me straight to the heart of the South, where barbeque isn’t just a meal; it’s a tradition.

Whether you’re a seasoned barbeque enthusiast or just looking for a delightful meal, Picnic absolutely delivers. The blend of Southern style food and local charm is hard to resist. If you’re in Durham and craving something delicious, do yourself a favor and stop by Picnic—you won't regret it! Everything from the service to the succulent barbeque made my visit a genuinely delightful experience. So grab a seat and dive into a plate of joy!

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Danny's Barbeque

Highlights
Amazing meat selection
Long lines, sign of popularity
Reasonable prices
Quick cafeteria-style ordering
Classic mom-and-pop experience

Danny's Barbeque in Durham is a culinary gem that I simply couldn't resist exploring. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the sizzling aroma of smoked meats that danced through the air—a sure sign of deliciousness to come! The lineout the door was a testament to its popularity, and I couldn't help but feel excited to be part of the buzz.

Their meat selection was truly impressive; every option promised a unique experience. I opted for the brisket and ribs—both were cooked to perfection. The brisket was tender, juicy, and had a delightful smoke ring that disappeared far too quickly off my plate. The ribs were glazed with a sticky sauce that struck the perfect balance between sweet and savory.

What truly sets Danny's apart is its quick cafeteria-style ordering system, making it easy for a busy food lover like me to devour these mouthwatering dishes without too much waiting. And let's not forget, the prices are incredibly reasonable, making it an excellent choice for anyone craving great barbeque.

All in all, Danny's Barbeque delivers a fantastic experience that melds a classic mom-and-pop feel with outstanding barbecue, truly making it a top contender in Durham!

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Maverick's Smokehouse & Taproom

Highlights
Top-tier spices
Welcoming and friendly staff
Delicious brisket sandwich
Outdoor seating available
Memphis rubbed Pulled chicken

During my recent expedition to Maverick's Smokehouse & Taproom, I discovered a little slice of BBQ heaven right in the heart of Durham. As soon as I walked in, the welcoming and friendly staff made me feel like part of the family. Their enthusiasm for barbeque is palpable, and it set the tone for an unforgettable meal.

I decided to try their delicious brisket sandwich, which was a true revelation. The brisket was incredibly tender, marinated with top-tier spices that danced delightfully on my palate. I couldn't resist sampling the Memphis rubbed pulled chicken as well; every bite was an explosion of savory goodness.

What truly elevated my experience was the beautiful outdoor seating area, perfect for soaking up the delightful Durham sunshine. Nothing pairs better with sensational barbeque than a comfortable place to savor each mouthful.

Overall, my time at Maverick's was nothing short of splendid! If you're seeking the best barbeque that Durham has to offer, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into their offerings. You'll leave with a satisfied belly and a new favorite haunt. Bon appétit!

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Sam Jones BBQ

Highlights
Fantastic BBQ flavors
Variety of sauce options
Great outdoor seating
Chopped BBQ plate recommended
Well-known local spot

Review of Sam Jones BBQ in Durham

When it comes to rekindling joy through food, Sam Jones BBQ hits the nail on the head! This local gem serves up a mouthwatering array of barbeque that beckons you to return time and again. As I settled in, the tantalizing aromas enveloped me in a warm embrace, promising a feast that I couldn't resist.

I dove straight into their chopped BBQ plate, and let me tell you, the flavors danced on my palate like nobody's business. The meat was tender, infused with an intoxicating smokiness that only experts in the craft can achieve. But wait—there's more! The variety of sauces available allows you to find your perfect match, whether you like it sweet, tangy, or spicy.

The outdoor seating is another delightful feature; it lends a relaxed vibe that complements the delicious food perfectly. If you're a BBQ enthusiast in Durham, Sam Jones has firmly secured its place on your culinary must-visit list. For those who cherish great food in a lively atmosphere, this is the spot where you’ll savor each bite, creating delicious memories to last a lifetime. It's where tradition meets flavor, and trust me, you won’t want to miss it!

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Five Spice BBQ

Highlights
Attentive and courteous waitstaff
Amazing authentic Korean BBQ
Extensive and varied menu
Fresh and delicious food
Excellent service and quick turnaround

Five Spice BBQ in Durham is an absolute gem for anyone craving authentic Korean barbeque. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the attentive and courteous waitstaff, setting the tone for my visit with their warm hospitality. The menu is extensive and varied, offering a delightful array of dishes that make even the pickiest eaters excited.

I was particularly impressed by the freshness of the ingredients. Each bite of meat I tried was not just delicious but also bursting with flavor, showcasing the skill and dedication of the chefs. The quick turnaround time to receive my food was a pleasant surprise, letting me dive into the rich culinary experience without the long wait often associated with BBQ joints.

Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Korean cuisine or a curious newcomer, Five Spice BBQ has something for you. Overall, the combination of high-quality food and excellent service makes it one of my top picks for barbeque in Durham. If you're in the area, don’t miss out on this delightful eatery—it’s truly a feast for the senses! Deliciousness awaits!

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THE ORIGINAL Q SHACK

From the moment I stepped into THE ORIGINAL Q SHACK, the smoky aroma enveloped me like a warm hug. The menu boasts an impressive selection, but I couldn't resist the pulled pork—tender, juicy, and oozing with flavor. Each bite was a delightful dance on my taste buds. Their homemade sauces? Simply divine! I particularly adored the sweet and tangy blend that perfectly complemented the meat. The laid-back atmosphere paired with friendly service made my visit truly memorable. If you're in search of mouthwatering barbecue that'll leave you craving more, look no further than this gem in Durham!

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Backyard BBQ Pit

At Backyard BBQ Pit, the aroma hits you like a warm hug as you step inside. Their smoked brisket is a true revelation—tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The tangy house sauce perfectly complements each bite, making it a must-try. Don’t overlook their coleslaw; it’s the perfect cool counterbalance to the rich meats! The laid-back vibe adds to the charm, inviting you to stay a little longer. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Backyard BBQ Pit is a delightful spot that delivers mouthwatering comfort food that you won’t soon forget. Bring your appetite!

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