Burnt ends are flavorful pieces of meat typically cut from smoked brisket, and we found six spots around Raleigh that serve these melt-in-your mouth crispy bites.
Note: Since burnt ends are difficult to make and are a hot commodity, restaurants typically have a set schedule for when you can order these flavorful pieces, so make sure to plan ahead.
Now, grab your wet wipes and let’s dig in.
Big Mike’s BBQ, 1222 NW Maynard Rd., Cary | Crispy bites sell out fast at Big Mikes — make sure to follow the restaurant’s Instagram page for information on “burnt end days.”
Chop Shop BBQ & Grill, 210 E. Six Forks Rd. | Call ahead or follow this barbecue joint on Instagram to see if pork belly burnt ends are on the menu.
Midwood Smokehouse, 409 W. Johnson St. | Add burnt ends tossed in cola barbecue sauce on to any meal, or order them for your main course any day of the week (if they haven’t sold out).
Prime Barbecue, 403 Knightdale Station Run, Knightdale | Get your hands dirty on Wednesdays and Fridays at this Southern spot.
Smith’s Smokehouse and Smoothies, 1318 S Main St., Ste. 108, Wake Forest | This recently opened smokehouse has a rotating menu which often features pork belly burnt ends.
The BBQ Lab, 4120-135 Main at North Hills St. | Available Tuesdays through Fridays, try a burnt end sandwich topped with provolone cheese and the signature Sweet BBQ Sawse.