Exploring the Appalachian region reveals a rich tapestry of moonshine history intertwined with authentic barbecue joints. Here are nine notable establishments where you can savor both.
1. Smoky Mountain BBQ Joints – Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Nestled just outside the Great Smoky Mountains, towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are home to some of the most authentic Appalachian BBQ joints. These places are infused with history, local moonshine lore, and the warm, smoky aroma of down-home barbecue. Family-run smokehouses dot the landscape, offering cozy roadside pits and a variety of smoked meats with vinegar-based sauces.
The atmosphere in these joints echoes the spirit of Appalachia, with rustic wooden interiors and friendly locals who share stories of the moonshine days. The menu is a testament to tradition, featuring succulent smoked ribs, pulled pork, and a selection of homemade sides like collard greens and cornbread.
A visit here is more than a meal; it’s a step back in time to a simpler era where food and folklore blend seamlessly. The experience is as rich and comforting as the dishes served, making it a must-visit for any BBQ enthusiast.
2. Dillard House, Dillard, Georgia
The Dillard House in northern Georgia has been serving hearty Southern barbecue and mountain fare since the early 20th century. Situated near the southern Appalachians, it’s more than just a dining spot; it embodies the homestyle cooking vibe popular in mountain regions with a moonshine heritage.
While it’s not entirely moonshine-themed, the Dillard House offers a traditional menu that includes tender smoked meats and classic Southern sides like fried okra and biscuits. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a family gathering, where the food is as abundant as the hospitality.
The establishment’s history is woven into its dining experience, with recipes passed down through generations. As you indulge in the flavors, you can almost hear the whispers of the Appalachian hills, echoing tales of yesteryears. Dining here is a nostalgic journey that connects you deeply to Southern culinary traditions.
3. Small Distillery BBQ at Appalachian Distillery, Ripley, West Virginia
At the Appalachian Distillery in Ripley, West Virginia, visitors can experience a unique fusion of craft distilling and Appalachian BBQ culture. This modern legal moonshine maker often pairs tours and tastings with BBQ offerings, creating a delightful blend of flavors and traditions.
The star of the BBQ here is the smoky pulled-pork plate, prepared onsite by a charismatic smoke-pit chef named “Bones.” The dishes are crafted with care, reflecting the rich heritage of the region while adding a contemporary twist.
Visitors not only savor the delectable smoked meats but also engage with the fascinating process of moonshine making. This experience is a testament to the enduring spirit of Appalachia, where food and drink are celebrated as a part of cultural identity. It’s a must-visit for those looking to taste and learn about authentic Appalachian traditions.
4. Cosby Valley BBQ Spots, Cocke County, East Tennessee
Cosby, Tennessee, once known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World,” is home to BBQ spots offering authentic East Tennessee-style barbecue. These small, local smokehouses serve as a nod to the region’s storied past, where underground distillers once roamed the hollers.
The BBQ here is all about tradition, featuring smoked meats that carry the essence of the wood-fired cooking method. Diners can enjoy tender pulled pork and ribs, seasoned to perfection with a unique blend of spices and sauces that have been passed down through generations.
The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, catering not only to locals but also to hikers and travelers exploring the Appalachian trails. Each bite tells a story, intertwining the flavors of the food with the rich history of moonshine-making in the area, making it a truly authentic experience.
5. Black Bear BBQ & Grill — Appalachia, Virginia
In the quaint town of Appalachia, Virginia, the Black Bear BBQ & Grill stands out as a local favorite. Known for its mouthwatering pulled pork sandwiches, fried okra, and hearty sides like mac ‘n’ cheese and cornbread, it offers a taste of genuine Appalachian culinary tradition.
The grill’s atmosphere evokes the spirit of an Appalachian coal town, with rustic décor that pays homage to the region’s rich history. Patrons are greeted with warm smiles and generous portions, reflecting the welcoming nature of the community.
This spot is more than just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. The blend of smoky flavors and the rich cultural backdrop make dining here a memorable experience, one that captures the essence of Appalachian BBQ and the spirit of the hills.
6. Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge — Shelby, North Carolina
Red Bridges Barbecue Lodge in Shelby, North Carolina, is an institution that has perfected Piedmont-style BBQ. Nestled near the foothills linking to Appalachia, this lodge has been serving its signature hickory-smoked pork with vinegar-tinged red slaw since the mid-20th century.
The retro brick pit where the magic happens is a testament to the slow-smoke heritage deeply rooted in rural Appalachian and Smoky Mountain culture. Each plate comes with a side of tradition, reflecting decades of family recipes and dedication to authentic flavors.
What makes Red Bridges stand out is not just the food, but the nostalgic ambiance that transports diners to a time when barbecue was both a craft and a way of life. It’s a cherished spot for BBQ lovers seeking a genuine taste of Appalachia, complete with Southern hospitality.
7. Grady’s Barbecue — Dudley, North Carolina
Grady’s Barbecue in Dudley, North Carolina, is a hidden gem that offers a genuine taste of Appalachian tradition. This mom-and-pop joint is run by Stephen Grady, who, even in his eighties, continues to smoke whole hogs overnight using oak and hickory.
The setting is unassuming country-road eatery, where the smoky aroma of slow-cooked meats greets visitors as they arrive. The menu is simple yet profound, focusing on the art of barbecue with dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the meat and the subtle smokiness imparted by the woods.
Dining at Grady’s is like stepping into a culinary time capsule. The dedication to preserving traditional methods and the warm hospitality make it a standout experience for anyone exploring the rich barbecue culture of the Appalachian region.
8. Buxton Hall Barbecue — Asheville, North Carolina
While Asheville, North Carolina, is more urban than its Appalachian counterparts, Buxton Hall Barbecue offers a slice of traditional mountain fare. It channels the region’s smoking traditions with an 18-hour pastured-pig smoking process over oak, cherry, and hickory.
The hall is known for its lively atmosphere, where communal tables encourage interaction among patrons. The menu boasts mouthwatering dishes that blend Smoky Mountain authenticity with contemporary flair, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.
At Buxton Hall, every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition, served in a setting that honors the craft of barbecue. It’s a place where the old meets the new, creating a unique dining experience that reflects the evolving nature of Appalachian cuisine.
9. Appalachian Distillery’s BBQ Pit — Ripley, West Virginia
At the Appalachian Distillery in Ripley, West Virginia, the BBQ pit is a delightful addition to the moonshine experience. This legal distillery marries the art of distilling with the flavors of Appalachian-style smoked meats.
Chef “Bones” is at the helm, crafting BBQ plates that attract food enthusiasts from all around. The smoky aroma of the pit complements the rich scents of moonshine, creating an enticing ambiance that celebrates regional traditions.
Visitors can tour the distillery, taste a variety of moonshine flavors, and then indulge in a hearty BBQ meal. This fusion of drink and dining is not just a treat for the palate but a journey through the cultural heritage of the Appalachian hills, making it a must-stop for those exploring the area.
