LKNConnect’s Guide to North Carolina BBQ in Lake Norman (10 Locations)

Guide to Southern Style BBQ

North Carolina BBQ is a time-honored tradition centered on slow-cooked pork. Eastern NC favors whole-hog with a tangy vinegar-pepper sauce, while Western (Lexington-style) uses pork shoulder with a touch of tomato. It’s typically served with slaw, hushpuppies, and baked beans.

Texas BBQ takes a bolder, beefier route—brisket is the star, smoked over oak with simple seasoning. With sausage, ribs, and minimal sauce, it’s all about the meat. Both styles reflect the rich, regional roots of American barbecue.

Cornelius

Mac’s Speed Shop

Style: North Carolina-style (Western NC influence)
A biker-friendly BBQ joint known for slow-smoked meats, local brews, and live music. Great patio vibes and a large menu of Southern classics.
19601 Liverpool Parkway, Cornelius
📞 (704) 892-3554


Davidson

The Crazy Pig BBQ

Style: North Carolina-style
Family-run taphouse with pulled pork, Frito pie, brisket, wings, and local brews. Relaxed patio with live music.
402 S Main St, Davidson
📞 (704) 997-2320


Huntersville

City Barbeque

Style: Memphis-style / American mix
Chain BBQ with smoked brisket, ribs, turkey, and classic sides. Offers multiple sauce options and large trays.
15425 Hodges Circle, Huntersville
📞 (704) 274-1069

Lancaster’s Eastern NC Style BBQ

Style: North Carolina-style (Eastern NC)
Converted gas station serving pulled pork, hushpuppies, wings, and sweet tea. A true roadside BBQ gem.
9230 Beatties Ford Rd, Huntersville
📞 (704) 394-1464

McCraws Barbecue

Style: Texas-style
Food truck BBQ with 21-hour smoked brisket, ribs, turkey, and salmon. Dry-rub focus with bold flavor.
114 S Old Statesville Rd, Huntersville
📞704-839-9503

Midwood Smokehouse

Style: Combo – North Carolina-style + Texas-style
Carolina pork, Texas brisket, and signature dishes like bacon-wrapped jalapeños. Great for groups and families.
16710 Birkdale Commons Pkwy, Huntersville
📞 (980) 689-2990


Mooresville

Big Tiny’s BBQ

Style: Texas-style
Owned by Texas transplants. Brisket, ribs, sausage, pulled pork, and sides like creamed corn and banana pudding.
179 N Main St, Mooresville
📞 (704) 658-1409

Lancaster’s BBQ (Mooresville)

Style: North Carolina-style (Eastern NC)
Rustic and welcoming with a wide menu of slow-smoked meats, burgers, and seafood. Catering available.
515 Rinehardt Rd, Mooresville
📞 (704) 663-5807

The Smoke Pit – Mooresville (Coming Soon)


Style: Texas‑style
Slow-smoked meats (brisket, pulled pork, ribs, wings, chicken) cooked “low & slow” up to ~18 hours over hickory in traditional offset smokers i
328 W Plaza Dr, Mooresville


Sherrills Ford

Boss Hog BBQ

Style: North Carolina-style
Relaxed, rural BBQ spot known for pork plates, ribs, and traditional Carolina sides. A hidden gem with loyal locals.
7564 E NC Hwy 150, Sherrills Ford
📞 (828-478-3600


Try Our Other Lake Norman Food Guides

LKNConnect’s Dining Guide to Lake Norman (listed by town)

Dining Guide to Lake Norman
Dining Guide to Lake Norman

LKNConnect’s Guide to Waterfront Dining

Waterfront Restaurants in Lake Norman
Waterfront Restaurants in Lake Norman

LKNConnect’s Guide to Special Occasions Dining

Special Occasion Restaurants in Lake Norman
Special Occasion Restaurants in Lake Norman

Favorite Restaurants for Breakfasts and Brunches

Favorite Restaurants for Breakfast and/or Brunch
Favorite Restaurants for Breakfast and/or Brunch

Connect to LKNConnect’s Guide to Half Price Wine in Lake Norman

Half Price Wine in Lake Norman
Half Price Wine in Lake Norman

Connect to LKNConnect’s Guide to North Carolina BBQ

Guide to Southern Style BBQ
Guide to Southern Style BBQ

LKNConnect’s Guide to Ice Cream and Frozen Treats in Lake Norman

LKNConnect's Guide to Ice Cream and Frozen Treatw in Lake Norman
LKNConnect’s Guide to Ice Cream and Frozen Treats in Lake Norman

LKNConnect’s Guide to Craft Breweries in Lake Norman

Guide to Lake Norman Breweries
Guide to Lake Norman Breweries

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