Taste championship winning barbeque at The Redneck BBQ Lab.  

North Carolina is known for BBQ, and they take it very seriously. The Redneck Scientific Team, born in Johnston County, North Carolina, honed their skills on the Kansas City Barbeque Society circuit. What started as a backyard barbeque, soon developed into world-champion flavors and quality meats in the Kansas City style, featuring a variety of meats rather than just one. I experienced it firsthand at The Redneck BBQ Lab in Benson, North Carolina. 

You can’t go to Johnston County without visiting The Redneck BBQ Lab. The Johnston County Visitors Bureau helped me find this restaurant gem. Housed in a reformed Dairy Queen store, the restaurant expanded next door, giving space for diners to enjoy their meals inside. With a gas station out front and vehicles pulled up to the front door, it’s a good thing that the big red sign is high above, so you can’t miss it.  

Johnston County Visitors Bureau and The Redneck BBQ Lab hosted me. However, all opinions are my own. 

When I walked in, I knew I was in the right place for championship eats because of the countless trophies occupying an honored place over the ordering station. 

I went in expecting to order a red hot dog, as those are a thing in the region. Brian, my host, discouraged me from getting a dog because they are designed for kids, and he wanted me to sample their specialty menu items. 

I found a seat in the dining room, where I admired the historical paintings of a tobacco barn and other regional art. That’s also where I met Michael, one of the owners, who taught me about Kansas City-style BBQ. 

All the tables had a roll of paper towels on a spindle and sawses. I could tell this was going to be a messy and delicious meal.  

Brian put together two trays of entree meats and sides. It was more than I could eat at one meal, but they were happy to make a to-go bag with my winnings. 

The Redneck BBQ Lab Sawse

The BBQ sauces served at The Redneck BBQ Lab are not your average sauce to drizzle over grilled meat. Three full, squeeze bottles of SAWSE are waiting on every table for customers to try. Of course, I had to sample them all.  

At first, when I squeezed the North Carolina BBQ Sawse (Homestyle Vinegar Lil Sweet), I thought the ingredients had settled and the bottle needed shaking. Brian quickly set me straight.   

Apple cider vinegar is mixed with salt, brown sugar, water, and various peppers, giving the sauce a sweet, puckery punch. This sauce is traditional in North Carolina, but theirs is unique–even in the spelling. Once I tried it on the BBQ, I was sold. I couldn’t get enough of this delectable condiment. When I asked how I could take some home, they directed me to their website, where you can order their merch. 

The Redneck BBQ Lab Menu 

Two metal baking trays with paper lining held my meal. The sampler included Sausage by the link (cut in half lengthwise), Pulled Pork, St. Louis Ribs on the bone, two pieces of cornbread, pickled onions, a slice of Beef Brisket, dill pickles, Green beans w/Country Ham (an old family recipe), Collards (something new for me), Baked beans, and Jalapeno Mac & Cheese. The only thing missing from this sampler was turkey because they had sold by the time I arrived. All the meats were remarkably tender.

My only regret is that I was there on the wrong day for Burnt Ends. They create those masterpieces overnight, so they are ready on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays only. 

The Staff 

The young people behind the counter and bussing the tables are eager to please. For some, it’s their first job. Brian personally greets and attends to every customer from the moment they enter the restaurant to the end of the meal with to-go boxes in hand. 

Final Thoughts  

At The Redneck BBQ Lab, they want you to know the definition of a redneck: noun [red*neck] 1) hardworking individual who loves God, family, and country (and good BBQ). And, should you forget, signs all over the restaurant remind you. 

I would go back in a heartbeat.