Parkers Barbecue Wilson is a legendary Southern barbecue joint that has been serving up delicious smoked meats and traditional sides since 1946. Located in Wilson, North Carolina, this family-owned business has been a staple in the community for over 70 years.
Table of Contents
The History of Parkers Barbecue Wilson
The story of Parkers Barbecue Wilson began when Ralph and Gertrude Parker opened a small barbecue stand on US Highway 301 in 1946. They quickly gained a reputation for their delicious barbecue, and their business grew rapidly. Over the years, they expanded the restaurant, adding a dining room and a drive-thru, and they even began shipping their barbecue all over the country.
Today, Parkers Barbecue Wilson is still owned and operated by the Parker family, and they continue to use the same traditional cooking methods and recipes that have made them famous for over seven decades.
The Menu at Parkers Barbecue Wilson
The menu at Parkers Barbecue Wilson is simple but delicious. The star of the show is the barbecue, which is slow-smoked over hickory wood for up to 14 hours. The pork is chopped by hand and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the meat.
In addition to the barbecue, the menu features traditional Southern sides like coleslaw, potato salad, hushpuppies, and Brunswick stew. They also serve fried chicken, seafood, and burgers for those who prefer something other than barbecue.
What Makes Parkers Barbecue Wilson So Special?
There are a lot of barbecue joints in the South, so what sets Parkers Barbecue Wilson apart from the rest?
For one thing, they use only the highest-quality ingredients. They source their pork from local farms and use only fresh, never frozen, chicken and seafood. They also make all of their sides from scratch, using family recipes that have been passed down for generations.
But perhaps the biggest reason that Parkers Barbecue Wilson is so special is the sense of community that surrounds it. This restaurant has been a gathering place for generations of families, and it’s not uncommon to see multiple generations of the same family enjoying a meal together at Parkers.
What Do People Say About Parkers Barbecue Wilson?
The response to Parkers Barbecue Wilson is overwhelmingly positive. People come from all over the country to try their famous barbecue, and many say that it’s the best they’ve ever had.
One reviewer on TripAdvisor wrote, “This is the best BBQ I’ve ever had. Everything was so fresh and flavorful. The staff was friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. I can’t wait to come back!”
Another reviewer on Yelp said, “I’ve been coming to Parkers since I was a kid, and it’s still my favorite barbecue joint. The pork is always moist and tender, and the sauce is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. If you’re ever in Wilson, you have to check out Parkers!”
Nutrition Facts for Parkers Barbecue Wilson
| Item | Calories | Total Fat (g) | Saturated Fat (g) | Cholesterol (mg) | Sodium (mg) | Total Carbohydrates (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Sugar (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pork BBQ Sandwich | 420 | 12 | 4 | 80 | 860 | 49 | 2 | 9 | 25 |
| Fried Chicken | 390 | 26 | 6 | 110 | 680 | 14 | 1 | 0 | 26 |
| Brunswick Stew | 120 | 2 | 0.5 | 15 | 480 | 18 | 4 | 4 | 9 |
| Hushpuppies (6) | 240 | 7 | 1 | 5 | 470 | 39 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
FAQs About Parkers Barbecue Wilson
Q: What are the hours of operation for Parkers Barbecue Wilson?
A: Parkers Barbecue Wilson is open seven days a week. The hours are Monday through Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm, and Sunday from 11:00am to 8:00pm.
Q: Does Parkers Barbecue Wilson offer catering?
A: Yes, Parkers Barbecue Wilson offers catering for events of all sizes. They can provide everything from barbecue sandwiches to full buffet-style meals.
Q: Is there a dress code at Parkers Barbecue Wilson?
A: No, there is no dress code at Parkers Barbecue Wilson. They welcome guests in casual attire.
Q: Does Parkers Barbecue Wilson have a kids’ menu?
A: Yes, Parkers Barbecue Wilson has a kids’ menu that includes smaller portions of barbecue, fried chicken, and other kid-friendly favorites.
Q: Is there outdoor seating at Parkers Barbecue Wilson?
A: Yes, Parkers Barbecue Wilson has a large outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy their meal in the fresh air.
Q: Does Parkers Barbecue Wilson have vegetarian options?
A: While Parkers Barbecue Wilson is primarily a meat-centric restaurant, they do offer a few vegetarian options, including a vegetarian plate with sides like mac and cheese, green beans, and corn on the cob.
Q: What is the price range at Parkers Barbecue Wilson?
A: The prices at Parkers Barbecue Wilson are very reasonable. A sandwich and a side will cost you around $8, while a full plate with two sides will run you about $12.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a fan of traditional Southern barbecue, you simply cannot miss Parkers Barbecue Wilson. With their mouth-watering smoked meats, homemade sides, and warm, welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a true gem of the South. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, you’re sure to leave Parkers Barbecue Wilson with a full belly and a smile on your face.
