Located at 100 Smokehouse Lane in Lexington, Lexington Barbecue serves barbecue pork and chicken for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday. Bulk orders for carry-out are available.
“Lexington barbecue” is a decidedly nebulous term. It can refer to a preparation (pork shoulder over hardwood coals), a sauce (vinegar-based with ketchup), a location (North Carolina’s barbecue capital), or, in the case of this nationally recognized eatery, all of the above. That reputation helps Lexington Barbecue stay perpetually busy, but it isn’t just hype: the food is worthy of the fanfare.
Though the menu offers fish, shrimp, chicken, and a variety of sides, pork barbecue is the main attraction. It comes sliced or finely or coarsely chopped, in sandwiches or on platters, with plenty of sauce on the side. Some barbecue needs a lot of sauce to make it palatable, but here, it is strictly a flavor enhancer and a fitting complement to the delicious meat. Plates come with fries, slaw, and hushpuppies, the last of which are excellent. There are also a few cobblers available, but if you still have room to eat them, you’re doing it wrong.
For as good as the food is, Lexington Barbecue’s service is nearly right up there with it. Despite dealing with a very high volume, staff here are friendly and fast. If you’re a newcomer, grab a stool by the counter, and they’ll gladly bring you up to speed. Prices ($10.20 - $11.20 for barbecue plates) are a bargain given the ample portion sizes. The best that can be said for the ambiance (loud, crowded, and dated) is that it is an afterthought for most patrons.
Lexington-style barbecue is not universally loved, but for those who are at least open to trying it, this venerable eatery is THE place to do it.
8.25/10
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