Two years post fire, this Wilmington restaurant is a barbecue playground
Robert Ray said he's wanted to bring a Moe’s Original BBQ location to Wilmington for a long time.
In 2015, Ray (who also owns local Mellow Mushroom locations) announced one would be coming to the former Flip’s Bar-B-Que location. The franchise was founded by three University of Alabama alums who bonded over their love of barbecue. and is known fire-roasted meats, including pork, brisket, chicken and turkey, as well as a selection of Southern sides.
It hasn't always been easy since then, with the pandemic and then a fire in November 2021. After a renovation, Moe's reopened in early 2022 and has maintained its popularity as a gathering spot since then.
"It's a place where you know the staff, you know the other customers. It's a place for regulars," Ray said. "It's a Disneyland of barbecue places."
Weekly specials
In addition to the regular menu, with platters, sandwiches and take-home packages, there are also regular weekly specials. Tuesdays are typically for brisket and there’s a burger special on Fridays. On weekends, you can often find the smoked meatloaf and a special price on the popular pork nachos on Sunday.
"On Thursdays, it's the Thanksgiving sandwich, which is something not everyone has, and you can get all year long," Ray said. "But Wednesdays are our big days. That's fried chicken."
BBQ playground
Many elements go into the success of Moe's, Ray said, starting with the staff. The space plays a part, too. There's an indoor dining area that includes a bar, as well as seating on the screened-in porch. There's also a big backyard area.
"You can bring your kids, your dogs. You have so many options," he said. "And it's very social and laidback. There just aren't many places like this here."
Beer, cocktails, and music
Ray said he grew up in Alabama, where having a beer with barbecue was common. In North Carolina, though, alcoholic beverage options don't always come with pulled pork. The Moe's model, though, includes some cocktails, variety of local and craft beers, and live music on the weekends.
"I mean, how do you have barbecue without a beer to go with it?" Ray asked.
STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the area’s latest food news by signing up for the Port City Foodies newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at aballard@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Moe's Original BBQ restaurant in Wilmington, NC still thriving
