Lexington Barbecue Review
Wayne Monk opened Lexington Barbecue in 1962, and it became the flagship of the entire Piedmont school — pork shoulder (not the whole hog) smoked over hickory and dressed with a red, tomato-tinged “dip” that eastern loyalists consider heresy. The town of Lexington has more than a dozen barbecue houses for its 20,000 people, and this is the one they call “the Monk” or just “Honeymonk.” The slaw is red too, cut with the same dip. It’s the other North Carolina, on a plate.
| Cost | ~$10–14 |
|---|---|
| Time needed | 45 minutes |
| Best season | year-round |
| Where | Lexington · Piedmont Alabama |
📍 Where: Lexington Barbecue, Lexington, North Carolina · 35.8240, -80.2534
Common questions
When's the best time to visit Lexington Barbecue?
Best season: year-round.
How much does it cost?
~$10–14. Prices drift — confirm before you go.
How long should I plan for?
Plan for about 45 minutes.
Is it actually worth the trip?
Our rating: Non-negotiable. The temple of Lexington-style pork and red dip, since 1962. Half the state swears by it and the other half swears at it. Decide for yourself.
One of 120 in Kick the Bucket List: North Carolina
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