Lewis Barbecue Expands to Raleigh Iron Works with New Location

Lewis Barbecue Set to Open in Raleigh's Salvage Yard

Lewis Barbecue, the highly regarded Texas-style barbecue restaurant renowned for its exceptional brisket and masterful smokehouse practice, is set to expand to the vibrant Raleigh Iron Works district at Salvage Yard in 2025. Founded by the talented pitmaster John Lewis, this establishment has earned national accolades, including the sought-after Bib Gourmand Award from the MICHELIN Guide, which recognizes its commitment to quality and authenticity.

This upcoming location will span approximately 8,276 square feet and feature a commercial smokehouse of 1,625 square feet. Here, guests can expect to indulge in a menu brimming with their iconic slow-smoked meats paired with classic Southern side dishes. Having already captivated diners in Charleston, Greenville, and soon Atlanta, Raleigh will soon experience the unique flavors that have defined Lewis Barbecue's legacy.

"We are thrilled to present our authentic Central Texas-style barbecue in Raleigh, joining such a lively community at Salvage Yard," stated John Lewis, the founder and pitmaster. He highlighted that the design of Salvage Yard resonates with their passion for craftsmanship and their desire for a community-centric space. "We look forward to serving great food and creating memorable experiences," he added.

The arrival of Lewis Barbecue is poised to enhance the reputation of Salvage Yard and Raleigh Iron Works as a central hub for dining, entertainment, and social engagement. With a curated mix of tenants, this project aims to foster deep connections between local culture and various regional and national offerings. Wendy Nabors, the director of commercial leasing at Grubb Ventures, which is behind the adaptive reuse project, commented on the strategic direction of the district. "We see Salvage Yard as a pivotal destination for food and entertainment in Raleigh, and the addition of Lewis Barbecue injects unparalleled culinary expertise into our lineup," she remarked.

Lewis Barbecue will join several other distinctive local businesses at Salvage Yard, including NOCO Brewery, Triangle Rock Club, and Canonball Music Hall, all of which contribute to the dynamic spirit of this evolving neighborhood.

About Salvage Yard

Salvage Yard is part of the Raleigh Iron Works development by Grubb Ventures, transforming three former warehouses into a 100,000-square-foot vibrant space. This adaptive reuse project highlights features like open-air entries and landscaped outdoor areas, contributing to a lively dining and entertainment environment.

About Lewis Barbecue

Lewis Barbecue is a testament to authentic Texas-style barbecue craftsmanship. Founded by John Lewis, the restaurant has expanded its influence across the Carolinas with existing locations in Charleston and Greenville, with a forthcoming one in Atlanta. Known for its legendary brisket, housemade sausage, and expertly crafted smokers built by Lewis himself, the restaurant has garnered praise from various national publications including Southern Living and Condé Nast Traveler. Its dedication to barbecue excellence and community connection continues to draw in a cult following, and now Raleigh is set to join its growing list of fans.

Looking ahead, Lewis Barbecue's opening will bring an exciting new flavor to Raleigh's culinary scene, embodying the spirit and tradition of Texas barbecue and enriching the communal fabric of the area.