After a quick run to do some antiquing in Selma, NC we hit the BBQ Trail and ended up at Parker’s Barbecue in Wilson, NC. We had seen Parker’s Barbecue before and the people were lined up into the parking lot to get in. We knew that we’d have to come back. So this time we were hoping that the line would not be as long. Fortunately there was no line so we made our way in.

Let me say before we get going that Parker’s Barbecue does not accept credit or debit cards. You’ll need some cash.

Where Is Parker’s Barbecue?

Parker’s Barbecue is on Highway 301 in Wilson, NC. We got off of I-95 in Kenly, NC and rode up Hwy. 301. It’s a nice ride if you’re not in a hurry. You can also exit off of 95 onto Hwy. 264 towards Wilson which will take you to 301 where you’ll need to make a left. Parker’s Barbecue will be just over a mile further on your left. That part came off of a map app, we didn’t travel that way. I just believe you miss a lot of interesting stuff when you stay on the Interstate all the time. It’s just not a Jeep ride when you have to run 80 mph to keep from being run over. Give me the highways and by-ways.

The Restaurant and Staff:

So enough about my Interstate rant. Parker’s Barbecue is one very cool restaurant. They have been in business since 1946. When we walked in, there were about 8 waiters standing at the front along with the manager to greet you and seat you. Each waiter was wearing a white shirt and a white paper hat. They were also wearing kaki type pants (yes they were fully clothed). It looked like a step back in time. The manager had the white shirt but no hat. I guess rank has its privileges. The dining room is quite large, so the long lines were not due to lack of seating. The décor is old looking and fits the mood. I thought it was great. Everyone there was as nice and friendly as possible.

One waiter took our order but another one brought the food out. Our food came out so fast that I could not believe it. And every waiter that walked by asked if we were ok and if the food was good. They all worked together. In fact when I asked the cashier how to tip the waiter she told me that all tips would be combined and then split equally at the end of the night. And just a reminder, no plastic money accepted.

What We Ate at Parker’s Barbecue:

Pork BBQ Plate with Fries and Brunswick Stew. Also pictured is Parker’s Barbecue Coleslaw.

Well tonight I ordered the Pork Plate with Brunswick Stew and Fries. The Pork was “old style” Eastern NC BBQ. It was chopped pretty fine but not to a minced state. It had a slight smoke and vinegar base flavor accenting the pork. I thought it was wonderful. It reminded me of the bbq that I grew up with. I tried their sauce and it was good but I ate most of it without the sauce. The fries were good, just kind of plain ole French fries. The Brunswick Stew was good but it was not my favorite. I added a little “Texas Pete” to it and I liked it even more.

Tammy ordered the Pork and Fried Chicken Plate also with Brunswick Stew. She chose the boiled potatoes as her second side. I tried her fried chicken and it was really good. It could pass for pan fried with a homemade batter. I didn’t ask how they cooked it.

Fried Chicken and Pork BBQ Plate with Boiled Potatoes and Brunswick Stew. Also pictured are the Hushpuppies and Corn Bread Sticks.

In addition, our meals came with slaw and fried corn bread. I ate the hushpuppies but did not eat the cornbread sticks. The puppies were excellent. Tammy tried the cornbread sticks and thought they were very good as well. The slaw came with a little kick to it. It seemed to have a hint of horse radish in it. I really liked it. It was just so different from all the other places that we’ve been to. That was a good thing.

Final Thoughts:

I have just a couple of final things to mention. For one, let me say that the meals are very reasonably priced. Ours cost less than $20. We’d spend that much at a fast food joint.

But finally I’d like to say that I thought Parker’s Barbecue was a great place. The whole experience was wonderful. From the people to the restaurant and to the food, it was all good. I think anyone that loves bbq should check them out.

What You Think About Parker’s Barbecue:

This is where I ask for your input. There’s a lot of people eating at Parker’s Barbecue so I’d love to hear from some of you and help fill in the blanks I may have missed.

Have you been to Parker’s Barbecue?

Tell us about your visit. Did you enjoy it like we did? What did you like or not like?

What do you regulars think?

If you’re a fan of Parker’s Barbecue leave us some comments.

Leave a comment and I’ll get back to you and post it as soon as possible. Tell us the rest of the Parker’s Barbecue story.

I look forward to hearing from you.

I did not find a website but they are on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/Parkers-Barbecue-Wilson-834716046551869/?fref=ts

Enjoy the ride, good eating and thanks for stopping by.