When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
The BBQ Lab
Why The BBQ Lab is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The BBQ Lab, founded in 2017 in McGee’s Crossroads, North Carolina, is a standout destination for BBQ enthusiasts seeking authentic North Carolina barbecue with a unique scientific approach. Established by Jerry L. Stephenson, Jr. and a college friend, this restaurant combines award-winning recipes with meticulous smoking techniques, ensuring each meat is slow-smoked for many hours to develop rich, deep flavors. The BBQ Lab offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner. Their commitment to quality means that when certain barbecue items sell out, they are simply gone for the day, reinforcing the freshness and care put into every dish. Open six days a week from 11am to 9pm, The BBQ Lab provides plenty of opportunities for gatherings and celebrations. Beyond the food, their story—as a local favorite rooted in Johnston County—brings a sense of community and pride to the dining experience. The Lab also offers catering services and online ordering, making it easy to enjoy their championship BBQ wherever you please.
Here's what people think of The BBQ Lab
As of recent, The BBQ Lab holds a 4.2-star rating based on 426 reviews.
The BBQ Lab has garnered a positive reputation with a solid 4.2-star rating from 426 reviews, reflecting general customer satisfaction with its BBQ quality and atmosphere. Reviewers frequently praise the restaurant for its authentic, tender, and flavorful smoked meats, noting the evident expertise and time invested in the cooking process. The friendly staff and welcoming environment add to the enjoyment of visiting, making it a popular spot to share with friends and family. Many patrons commend the unique 'scientific twist' on North Carolina BBQ, which differentiates The BBQ Lab from more typical barbecue joints. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited menu availability due to the high demand and the finite quantity of smoked meats prepared daily. A few customers have expressed concerns about consistency and service speed during busy hours. Overall, despite minor critiques, the reviews reflect strong customer appreciation for the quality and authenticity of the barbecue. The positive feedback clearly positions The BBQ Lab as a go-to place for BBQ lovers keen on enjoying traditional flavors crafted with precision and care.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
akshay reddy
Had an absolutely delicious meal at The BBQ Lab in Raleigh! The burnt ends were incredibly flavorful—tender, smoky, and perfectly seasoned. Their pork ribs were the second best I’ve ever had, which says a lot considering how many BBQ spots I’ve tried. The sides didn’t disappoint either—the fried okra had a great crunch, and the mac and cheese was creamy and comforting. Surprisingly, their vegan burger was also spot on—a great option for non-meat eaters that didn’t feel like an afterthought. On top of the great food, the place was clean, well-maintained, and had a welcoming vibe. Definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area and craving BBQ done right.
Daphne Pfister
First time trying the sandwiches. The Judy was awesome. Saw it being made and ended up ordering one myself instead of my usual brisket as figured I should try something new as was using offline. It was amazing the turkey was so good and the sandwich was a nice combination of flavors and perfectly portioned. I’ll have to try the other sandwiches next time I go back
Dane Hansen
This is my 3rd time coming here and it’s always amazing from the best BBQ around to the awesome service. I got one of the specials which was 1/4 burnt ends and 1 jalapeño & cheese sausage link with Mac & cheese as my side and corn bread. You have to try at least once. It’s attacked to a gas station and Mexican restaurant. I’ll never back again soon.
Mo
Chicken Tenders and Jalapeño Mac & Cheese was great!! Chicken tenders were large, juicy and flavorful. Very filling and the Mac and cheese was cheesy and had just the right amount of heat. The batch I had was fresh out the oven and was made perfectly! The customer service was great, constantly had individuals checking on me to ensure I was enjoying my meal. Looking forward to coming back !!
Prime Chang
I got the ribs with two side and banana pudding the taste as they were boiled and then bbq got the jalapeño mac and cheese bake bean everything lack favor and was totally bland the corn bread was the best thing on the plate and the banana pudding was below average lack bananas and wafers don't know how this place has 4.2 start
How to reach The BBQ Lab
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Website: None
Why rally at The BBQ Lab with your friends? The BBQ Lab is an exceptional destination for group gatherings, offering more than just mouthwatering barbecue. The vibrant atmosphere combined with a menu that boasts rich flavors and unique BBQ styles makes it an ideal spot to create memorable moments with friends or family. Imagine arriving together, greeted by the inviting aroma of smoked meats and the promise of delicious sides that cater to a variety of palates, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. The welcoming and attentive service creates a comfortable environment that encourages conversation and prolonged enjoyment. Plus, the casual yet lively setting is perfect for fostering camaraderie, whether celebrating milestones, reconnecting after a long time apart, or simply enjoying a weekend outing. Its location in a convenient spot within a strip mall ensures accessibility while still delivering authentic barbecue that turns heads. With a solid rating reflecting positive customer experiences, The BBQ Lab offers the perfect blend of food, atmosphere, and service for anyone looking to rally with friends and savor the best of traditional and innovative BBQ flavors together.
What activities and features make The BBQ Lab perfect for group meetups? The BBQ Lab caters brilliantly to groups thanks to several key features. First off, the seating arrangement provides a spacious dining area that comfortably accommodates larger parties, allowing everyone to sit together without feeling cramped. This lends itself well to conversations and interaction among friends or family, enhancing the communal dining experience. Beyond just the food, the restaurant offers interactive elements like a rotating menu of specials—such as their revered burnt ends available on select days—that add excitement and anticipation to visits, providing shared experiences around unique barbecue offerings. The friendly staff is skilled at handling group orders efficiently, ensuring that everyone gets their meals without long waits, which is crucial for maintaining group energy. Additionally, plaques and décor celebrating BBQ heritage add to the ambiance, acting as conversation starters and enriching the cultural experience for guests. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a lively dinner, The BBQ Lab creates a dynamic setting where groups can savor great food and build shared memories.
What types of barbecue and menu options can groups expect at The BBQ Lab? The BBQ Lab is known for a robust selection of authentic smoked meats that cater to varied tastes within any group. Signature items include tender beef brisket, juicy pulled pork, St. Louis-style ribs, and specialty burnt ends, which are celebrated for their crusty exterior and moist interior, a favorite among BBQ aficionados. Sausage options, sometimes featuring jalapeño and cheese varieties, provide delicious alternatives for those seeking bold flavors. Complementing the meat, the sides are thoughtfully crafted to enhance the meal — classics like cornbread, baked beans, and collard greens provide a comforting Southern touch, while innovative sides like jalapeño mac & cheese and deviled egg potato salad offer unique twists that elevate the overall experience. The “sawses” (homemade BBQ sauces) variety available caters to different heat preferences and flavor profiles, allowing each diner to customize their experience. This extensive yet balanced menu ensures that groups with different dietary preferences and appetites can all find something enjoyable.
Why is The BBQ Lab a good choice for group dining ambiance and service? The ambiance at The BBQ Lab strikes a fine balance between casual and energetic, making it a versatile spot for celebrations or relaxed get-togethers. The décor pays homage to BBQ traditions, creating an environment that feels authentic and welcoming. Its spacious interior accommodates groups well, and the layout encourages a lively yet comfortable dining experience. Service is noted to be friendly, prompt, and attentive, which is particularly important for groups managing multiple orders. The staff’s knowledge of the menu also helps guests navigate choices easily, enhancing the overall experience by ensuring diners leave happy. The presence of paper towel rolls and well-organized tables signals readiness for the messy, finger-licking fun of BBQ, reinforcing the casual, no-frills dining atmosphere where comfort and enjoyment take priority.
What additional benefits do group visitors enjoy at The BBQ Lab? Beyond providing excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere, The BBQ Lab offers value for groups via affordable pricing without compromising on quality. This makes it an attractive option for gatherings where attendees may want to indulge in generous portions without stressing budgets. The availability of specialty dessert options—such as the popular pineapple Dole Whip—provides a refreshing end to meals, enhancing the overall dining experience. For groups interested in flexibility, The BBQ Lab’s ability to prepare “to-go” bags ensures that leftovers can be enjoyed later, extending the social experience beyond the restaurant walls. The location’s proximity to other attractions and amenities in the Raleigh area also makes it a convenient starting or ending point for a day out with friends, combining gastronomy with leisure and entertainment seamlessly.
How does The BBQ Lab’s reputation reflect its suitability for meetups? With a solid rating of around 4.2 out of 5 from hundreds of reviews, The BBQ Lab has proven its appeal to a broad customer base. Positive reviews often highlight the quality of the BBQ, the friendly service, and the vibrant atmosphere—key factors that make it a prime candidate for social gatherings. While some reviews note that the food might not please every palate identically, the majority consensus supports that it delivers an authentic and enjoyable BBQ experience. This reliability, combined with the unique menu items and the sociable ambiance, consistently places The BBQ Lab among recommended destinations for friends and families looking to share a pleasurable, satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.
In summary, The BBQ Lab presents itself as an inviting, flavorful, and practical destination for anyone seeking a place to gather with friends or family. Its combination of savory meats, inviting sides, thoughtful service, and an atmosphere designed for enjoyment makes it a standout choice for BBQ lovers and social groups alike. Whether you are planning a casual meet, a birthday celebration, or simply a fun outing to enjoy great food together, The BBQ Lab delivers on the promise of a memorable, tasty, and convivial meetup spot.