Taste of NC: Top 5 Foods & Drinks You Should Absolutely Try

So, you’re looking to sample some real North Carolina grub, are you? Maybe you’ve got a visit planned, or perhaps you are just kinda curious ’bout what the Tar Heel State has to offer. Either way, you’ve landed in just the right spot. We’re going to stroll on through a tasty lineup of five food and drink treasures that seriously define North Carolina’s edible personality. Get ready to dig in!

1. North Carolina BBQ: A Smoky Obsession

Barbecue in North Carolina? That’s pretty much religion here, ya know? But it is not just about cookin’ some pork; it’s about choosing sides, and there are two main contenders vying for BBQ supremacy. First, there is Eastern-style, vinegar-based, whole-hog barbecue. Is that something you would be in the mood for? It’s got this real tangy, kinda peppery bite. This style basically uses the whole hog, seasoned it up with a simple yet forceful vinegar and pepper sauce.

Then, in the west (or the Piedmont region), they have got Lexington-style ‘cue. What it is, it uses only the pork shoulder. That also means that they’ve doctored up their sauce with a touch of tomato, makin’ it slightly sweeter and a bit redder than its eastern cousin. Folks get pretty serious when choosing a favorite. Actually, loyalties run deep. This isn’t some polite discussion, but really, you gotta try both to form your own take.

A local’s insight is that you need to stop by these spots for an authentic taste. In the east, you could stop by Skylight Inn in Ayden, or Pete Jones Barbecue in Ayden. If you prefer Lexington style, Lexington Barbecue or Stamey’s Barbecue would do the trick. No matter where you land, be sure to load up on slaw and hushpuppies; because that is basically how you’re doing North Carolina BBQ proper.

2. Cheerwine: The Cherry-licious Soda

You are talking about a beverage that’s pretty iconic. Now, let’s introduce you to Cheerwine. Actually, it’s not wine. Is that a shocker? No, it is just a bubbly cherry soda that hails from Salisbury, North Carolina. It’s been kickin’ around since 1917. It does possess a uniquely sweet, kinda fizzy thing that basically makes it the perfect partner for BBQ. In fact, ask any Tar Heel, they would say the very same thing. Some claim, arguably, that the ‘wine’ part in the name came ’cause of its rich color. A lot of old-school Southerners would get it because back in the day, that kinda made it look fancy. It is more than just a soda pop, but is kinda a regional badge of honor.

Findin’ Cheerwine is mostly easy in North Carolina, naturally, from restaurants to your average corner store. That, is actually where you would mostly encounter it. Cheerwine floats are also another take. Some even get creative with Cheerwine cocktails. No matter the way you tackle it, you need to wrap your lips around a Cheerwine. Just get the official Tar Heel experience.

3. Sweet Potato Pie: A Taste of the South

Okay, that’s a taste of the South. Do you ever find yourself with that thought? What is so comforting about Sweet Potato Pie? Actually, it’s so deeply rooted in Southern culinary heritage. Unlike pumpkin pie, its cousin to the north, sweet potato pie features that subtle earthy sweet flavor that could really make it distinct. Also, a kinda creamy texture, usually spiked up with warm spices just like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Really, everyone’s grandma is rumored to make the greatest sweet potato pie, but so many spots around the state provide really worthy contenders. Consider these insights. Head on over to Mama Dip’s Kitchen in Chapel Hill for just an unforgettable slice of history and taste. You might also grab a full pie for all of those moments in your life! In Asheville, check out the many local bakeries, they almost definitely put their own modern twist on a Southern classic. One is going to make your tastebuds do a jig, that’s my assumption.

4. Craft Beer: Hopping Through the State

For those who love beer, the scene here is, you could say, something that will put your taste buds through a wild ride. Over the past several years, the Old North State has basically exploded into a craft beer haven. A plethora of breweries are around every turn. What exactly do they offer? They bring something, usually innovative brews that span all manner of styles.

Asheville is kinda at the core of this movement, a real tourist magnet for hop-heads. New Belgium and Sierra Nevada also have big outposts there. The city’s full of brewpubs and tasting rooms. You get to taste many different beers within just a few blocks. Just a heads-up. But there is also more to North Carolina than only just Asheville. You should basically make it your mission to hit up places like Raleigh and Charlotte. Why? Because they equally have fantastic breweries. And also there are even small towns. You are definitely going to see places poppin’ up across the whole state.

Local Tip: basically plan your visits in the fall. Usually that lines up with lots of beer festivals around. Now, that’s definitely the greatest way to get to taste what’s on tap. Don’t feel pressured, alright? Just grab something local to start! You can kinda support the local economy too. How ’bout that?

5. Muscadine Wine: A Taste of Heritage

Here is an often forgotten star. Ever heard of Muscadine grapes? Just gonna say, they’re a distinctive type. How are they unique? Well they’re basically native to the southeastern United States. Their especially thick skin. It almost lends them this particularly strong, kinda sweet flavor.

How do they turn into something you might wonder? Right, North Carolina, really, is where they are at! The winemakers have turned it into sweet and, that’s right, quite fruity wines that actually mirror the Southern landscape. Often, these wines, usually offer folks a true sense of time and place. You know, you just might learn somethin’ about this experience. What happens is that they differ so much from your standard European varietals! Some feel it can come off as intensely grapey. And a few others are gonna discover that their distinct flavor is something really memorable.

Now, where should one be going to pick them up? It’s something to plan accordingly. Many local vineyards pepper all over North Carolina, frequently located within the Outer Banks and coastal plains. Here’s a bit more local advice; there are countless wineries where folks can test things themselves! Often times with very engaging tours and with lovely views! This is gonna give anyone a peek inside a uniquely Southern tradition, which will kinda open people up. Muscadine Wine North Carolina Full Review and Details. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Check for Wineries and Opening Hours)