Bar-b-que

Bar-b-que is a very personal thing. Growing up in South Carolina, the reigning bar-b-que had a mustard based sauce. Though mustard based is great, I am actually a vinegar based girl (don't judge me SC, my mother is from North Carolina). Not only is my Mother from North Carolina but she grew up in a resturant family, and a bar-b-que resturant family at that. Peeler's Bar-b-que served vinegar based sauce and as a result the preference is in my genetic make-up.

Though I have not found too many options here in NYC,  there are a few good stand outs.  Hill Country Bar-b-que, which serves Texas style 'que has a great spread. We often have them cater large work functions and the food never disappoints. Another great spot is Dinosaur Bar-B-Que in Harlem. A quick walk from the 125th street stop, it's a liad back atmosphere with great food and service. They also have locations in Upstate New York.

While I have found two good spots, I am on the hunt for a real hole in the wall serving hash and rice in addition to the main attraction. A good freind and colleague grew up in Noth Carolina (in fact, our Mothers grew up ACROSS THE STREET from one another though we didn't meet until I started working in NYC). In a professional meeting with another North Carolinain, the topic of bar-b-que came up in conversation. We all agreed that College Bar-b-que, in Salisbury, NC was the best. Visting my Grandmother in Salisbury, long after the family restauart was closed, we always had at least one lunch at College Bar-b-que. It is not to be missed. If you are ever driving to Charlotte, stop off at the Salisbury exit. I promise you will not be disappointed. Salisbury is also the home to Cheerwine. Pick up this delicious beverage while in its hometown.

While I am on the topic of bar-b-que, lets chat about Southern versus Northern intrepretations of the word. To Southerners, bar-b-que means pulled pork. I went to college in the South and during our first week of freshman year, they hosted a welcome bar-b-que consisting of pulled pork sandwiches and fixings (as sides are known). My new northern friends were completely confused. To Northerners, bar-b-que means cooking on a grill (usually hamburgers, hotdogs, and chicken). This is what Southerners refer to as a 'cook out' since you are cooking outside. What do you mean by bar-b-que and where can I find some of this Southern style 'que in New York?