City: Raleigh, NC

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (919) 890-4500

Address: 328 W. Davie St.

Description: Barbecue and white tablecloths rarely go together, but the pairing works at this popular warehouse-district spot. The pit master is national barbecue star Ed Mitchell, and he delivers juicy tender pulled pork, pit-cooked over oak or hickory in back of the restaurant. The menu draws from the traditions of North Carolina barbecue joints, but also includes Texas-style brisket, smoked turkey, fried chicken, fresh fish, and a barbecue tofu dish. Paired with sides like sweet potato fries and appetizers like fried green tomatoes, meals are an update of the classic Southern plate. While the setting is much sleeker than your average ’cue shack, it stops short of being pretentious. The carefully restored 1930s meatpacking warehouse is bright and warm, and the central bar has a great feel. The wine and beer list was designed with the smoky flavors of barbecue in mind, and includes a sweet and light sangria made with North Carolina native scuppernong wine.