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Gas in the car? Playlist all queued up? Are you hungry? Let’s hope so, because we’re heading out on a five-state road trip to find the best barbecue traditions in America. No matter what tradition we’re exploring, T. Marzetti Foodservice has Bold Blends™ to make the BBQ memorable.

To eat barbecue is to be a part of history, and nowhere is that more apparent than when you’re diving into a plateful of barbecued meat in North Carolina or South Carolina. The history of these two states has set them on different—and delicious—culinary courses. While their methods and styles vary, one thing is certain—you can find some mighty good barbecue no matter where you are in the Carolinas.

North Carolina, which once had a significant British population, favors the vinegar-based sauces brought over by the Brits. But in South Carolina, French and German cooks used a heavy hand with the mustard jar, which is a key to their unmistakable style. Even within the states, there are different styles. Eastern-style North Carolina barbecue uses the whole hog, cooking it low and slow over hickory. But on the western side of Route 1, the Lexington-style of barbecue favors pork shoulders, pulled and chopped on a bun with slaw.

To sample the best the two states have to offer, start at a North Carolina establishment that’s been around for more than 50 years — Lexington Barbecue, located at 100 Smokehouse Lane, which has to be one of the best addresses in the state. Sip a glass of tea or locally popular soft drink Cheerwine (a cherry-flavored soft drink from the Carolina Beverage Corporation of Salisbury, North Carolina). Then enjoy a plate of chopped pork shoulder that’s been roasted for nearly half a day. In South Carolina, you really must stop at Charleston’s Right on Que, which specializes in slow-cooked, low temperature barbecuing methods for its pulled pork, pulled chicken, ribs, beef brisket and pork loin.

T. Marzetti Tip

Looking for ways to spice up the BBQ on your menu? T. Marzetti Foodservice has Bold Blends™ for every taste. Choose from Western Barbecue Sauce, Mild Barbecue Sauce and Korean Barbecue Sauce, or try new Sweet & Bold Barbecue Sauce, made with tomato, vinegar, pineapple juice, onion and garlic for sweet, smoky and tangy flavor. It’s perfect for dipping buffalo wings, coating ribs and as a grillside basting sauce for chicken, pork or beef. Get any flavor in 4/1 gallons perfect for back-of-house, or increase ease with Sweet & Bold sauce in 72/2 oz. cups! Try a sample of our Bold Blends™ sauce.

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Why North Carolina BBQ is so misunderstood
Evolution of American Barbecue