I grew up on Carolina-style BBQ. I’ve had many-a-plate or tray featuring pulled or chopped pork, and this is what first comes to mind for me when someone mentions the word “barbecue.” And when I’m in the mood for it, there are plenty of places in North Carolina that can satisfy my craving.
One of the most popular and iconic BBQ restaurants in the Piedmont/Tri-Cities area is Little Richard’s. Little Richard’s is on the west side of Winston-Salem and it’s located in an old shack-type building that offers a fantastic atmosphere. The walls are adorned with creative, vintage signs and the tables here fill up quickly.
Whether it’s people dining in or getting their BBQ to go, Little Richard’s is always busy serving hungry customers.
I recently had lunch at Little Richard’s when I was on my way to Charlotte to cover a football game. I arrived just before the lunch rush and was able to grab a table in the back of the dining area. It’s a little overwhelming when you enter because the take-out counter can get very busy, but a busy counter is a great sign of a place that has lots of fans.
I found the BBQ to be delicious. It had a sharp, smokey flavor and featured some bits of bark, which is always my favorite part of a smoked pork shoulder.
The BBQ slaw was also an excellent side for the pork. If you’re unfamiliar with it, BBQ slaw is a vinegar-based slaw that’s more tart than the typical mayo-based slaw. It’s also usually a darker red color. In my opinion, when prepared correctly, BBQ slaw is a much better compliment to pork than traditional slaw.
I also consider hush puppies to be one of the best sides for BBQ. Others in my family argue hush puppies should be reserved for fried fish, but I prefer them with my ‘que. The hush puppies at Little Richard’s are small and fried to a dark-brown crust - just the way I like them.
At one point, I combined a piece of hush puppy with a fork full of slaw and chopped pork, and I think I reached a Carolina BBQ utopia.
With tip, my entire meal cost $10. For great BBQ and great service, I’d say Little Richard’s is well worth a visit.