Whether you’ve never had our state’s BBQ, or you grew up on it, you should visit Picnic for a plate of whole hog that holds true to North Carolina’s barbecue traditions. This northwest Durham outpost is a bit more expensive than some other options in town, but the slow-cooked pork is extremely high quality and the sides are fantastic. Try the fried okra and coleslaw, and save room for dessert staples like the banana pudding and chocolate chess pie.

(clockwise, from top): Pimento Cheese with Fried Saltines | Potato Salad | BBQ Sauce | Brisket and Barbecue Combo | Mac and Cheese | Collards. For those unfamiliar with North Carolina barbecue, any time you see simply “barbecue” under an entrees header, that refers to pulled or chopped pork. Picnic serves up Eastern-style whole hog barbecue with friendly service in relaxed digs (though I live in the Piedmont, I pledge allegiance to Eastern-style barbecue – and it is a treat not to have to drive four hours for the good stuff!).

For those looking for a modern twist on traditional BBQ, Reddit users often recommend Picnic. This restaurant takes a farm-to-table approach, using locally sourced meats and ingredients to create their dishes. The barbecue at Picnic is a fusion of tradition and innovation, with items like the whole hog barbecue, which is cooked on-site and served with house-made sauces.

Picnic, named for the cut of a hog between the Boston butt and the front leg, is the only Eastern-style joint on the list, but not because we're showing preference. Ironically, it's also the only one of the trio in West Durham. Picnic slow cooks its whole hogs in an outdoor smoker oven with slide-out racks perfect for handling the hefty loads.

Picnic in Durham is the perfect way to spend your day if you like sunshine, sandwiches and the great outdoors. Don't expect caviar or linen napkins, but you can count on ants trying to steal your crumbs. The scenic backdrop of Duke Gardens provides a stunning view, and the occasional goose chase will keep you on your toes.

Picnic is one of the only spots in the state for hand-picked, whole hog barbecue made with humanely raised pork. Bullock’s BBQ is a family-owned institution in operation since 1952. Backyard BBQ Pit is known for its wood-fired, eastern-style barbecue and, in 2021, was named the top barbecue by Southern Living.

Picnic Barbecue in Durham also specializes in whole-hog barbecue. The BBQ joint cooks the hog low and slow over wood, then hand-shreds the meat. Start with chicken wings, cornbread or a cup of Brunswick stew, then add in some of the restaurant’s tasty whole hog BBQ, fried chicken and more.

My buddy Neha M. Shah, director of the Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau, shared that the annual Farm to Fork Picnic, celebrating local food and local farms, will take place Sunday, June 2, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., again at Fearrington Village. Get details and tickets here.

When you pull up in front of Picnic, you may think you’ve got the wrong address. Aren’t barbecue joints supposed to be situated at a country crossroads, miles from any city?. Then why are you looking out across a patchwork of suburban lawns, a hushpuppy’s throw from downtown Durham?

Picnic Barbecue is a BBQ restaurant in Durham, NC. We came for takeout and ate at their picnic tables outside. We were on a quest to eat some mean BBQ, mainly because there are few quality options in the San Francisco area. The food at Picnic was very refined and a good bet for BBQ.

Casual barbecue eatery offering an extensive selection of tasty, protein-laden foods. Their pet-friendly outdoor tables are perfect for Rover and their chopped brisket cheese fries are perfect for you. Sandwiches, salads, hush puppies, mac and cheese, and more Southern favorites.

Picnic may be known for whole hog BBQ, but one of the menu’s MVPs is the fried chicken. On this sandwich, flavorful boneless chicken thigh is topped with old bay aioli and pickled onion. It’s served on a buttered bun with one of Picnic’s Southern sides and goes for $9.75.

Picnic BBQ is some of the best eastern North Carolina BBQ I’ve had in the Triangle. Y’all know I’m particular about my BBQ, and this drive to Durham is totally worth it for that vinegar based sandwich and those fried okra!. Also, their dessert is on point, too!

Saltbox Seafood Joint has two casual locations while Picnic is known for great sandwiches. Pizzeria Toro is known for wood fired pizzas and their Littler restaurant nearby, a small intimate spot for seasonal fare. M Sushi is known for its high quality sushi.

Pack a basket full of goodies and head to Duke Park for a relaxing and laid-back picnic. With ample green space, charming picnic spots, and shady trees, it’s the perfect place to unwind with your loved ones or have a solo picnic date with your favorite book.

Picnic exceeds expectations for what one would call a “barbecue joint”. This chef-driven backwoods hidden gem is held with great love by Wyatt. His full-flavored brisket and perfectly textured meats are smooth on the tongue and fulfilling in the belly.

I have to credit my friend and former competitive BBQ judge Holly-Anne for suggesting Picnic – I wouldn’t have come across it without her insider knowledge. It’s such a great place to eat and surely one of the top BBQ restaurants in Durham.

Off the beaten, path you’ll find pit master Wyatt Dickson’s whole-hog approach barbecue method at Picnic. “Not too fancy” pimento cheese with Captain’s Wafers and a pulled pork plate with fried okra will suffice.

- Rating: 4.0/5 (383 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 1647 Cole Mill Rd Durham, NC 27705- Categories: Barbecue, Bars, Sandwiches- Read more on Yelp

1647 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705Phone: 919-908-9128 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Picnic (@picnicdurham)