On the route between Maryland, and Florida there is always a mandatory stop in Wilson, North Carolina for some Carolina Bar-b-que. Unique to the northeastern section of the state, this BBQ is vinegar and red flake pepper based.
The favorite stop? Parker’s Bar-b-que that has been serving their special Eastern North Carolina pulled pork, and classic southern fried chicken since 1946. So popular with the locals, and some well-informed travelers, Sunday after church is the busiest times of the week.
The men were in their Sunday best, the women, dressed as any proper southern lady would be for church. Since there was such a line, we tried the take-out section for the first time.
Little did we know we would be right in the back where the kitchen is. After placing our order, we were able to watch the huge cooking crew busily cooking pulled pork, brunswick stew, fried chicken, hushpuppies, boiled potatoes and so much more.
In the main dining room, the servers are young men wearing uniforms reminiscent of the 1950’s, white paper cap included.
Outside, a mature African American man was resting in a chair along the white wall. My guess is that he is one of the master cooks who knows all the family secret recipes.
As you can imagine, it’s been a long day, and an even longer week with over 2,000 miles clocked through six states. Great to be back home, and spring is in full bloom. Hope you had a great weekend too.
To see more of Parker’s Bar-b-que in Wilson, North Carolina, visit one of my earlier posts here.
Categories: 2013 Project 365, Foot Prints, travel
Emily Carter ~ Nature as Art 
Great job telling the story
Thanks Ali ! It was fun sharing my lunch with you. 🙂
Nothing like tradition that carries on through generations huh? 2000 miles and six states though whew! :O
Thank you so much Andy ! I agree, it’s great to know that a family business can survive the test of time. Good cooking works every time!
There are so many amazing and just plain interesting bits, that make up America. Thank you for serving it up…
Thanks Charlie. I love getting off the beaten track and seeing the places that aren’t well-known. I bet you find all sorts of fun places to explore in Seattle.
This makes me want to go for lunch tomorrow at Memphis Blues for Barbeque
Did you go for BBQ today? It is a bit different, but oh so good. Hope you’re doing well, and it’s good to be back home.
Great photos. They could so easily be from the 1950s if you added a bit of grain. So timeless!
You made a great point Tricia. I may just try that. Thank you so much for your kindness.
I would have commented sooner, but I suddenly got hungry for some reason, and had to eat supper.
HAHAHA ! That is so funny Jerry ! So glad to get back home. I can now catch up with everyone’s blogs. Lots of reading planned.
You lead an exciting life. I marvel at your ability to keep moving…
If you only know just how much I sleep. 🙂 It’s this blog that makes me get out there too. Great motivator.
you are making me hungry…a great post!
I’d imagine that this American food is quite different from what you eat. This BBQ is quite unique and isn’t found anywhere else.
Very well written and so great captured too… 😉
You are so kind Drake. Thank you so much!
That is a long journey indeed! Lovely shots. And welcome back 🙂
Thank you Madhu. it was a great trip, but even better to get back home. Hope all is well with you.
Pulled pork. Mmm. Welcome home, Emily.
Sounds like you’re familiar with it Tom. Probably not on an Italian menu I’d imagine. Thank you!
I have filed this nugget away for future reference in case we get to the Carolinas on our travels some day.
Thank you so much Rachael. I promise you, it’s well worth the trip ! And the southern trip is a great idea. My fantasy is to do the classic three – Charleston, Savannah then New Orleans by road trip.
Mmmm – BBQ – YUM:)
It’s hog heaven. 🙂
I would love to be able to travel like that. You have shown us some wonderful sites and no doubt there will be more.
The first photo in this post looks like something taken in the 60’s, then when you take a closer look at the cars, you realise it isn’t. Great shot.
Thank you so very much Leanne ! America is a great country to drive in. There are so many nostalgic and unique places to visit along the way. if you ever make it stateside. Come and visit me. We’ll go on adventures together.
I am really hoping to get there in the next couple of years, depends on a few things, but if it happens, I will let you know.
I’ve got a place for you to stay, and the area is so close to so many places. DC, Baltimore, Philadelphia, NY. Spring time or fall time! that would be awesome!
Sounds fantastic, I better start saving.
The same applies if you want to come to Australia, we could do a road trip.