Steve was on a work trip to Charlotte, and managed to squeeze in a visit to Noble Smoke, a place known for excellent barbecue. He was lucky and got invited backstage to see the barbecue pits. Here is his post about the experience:
Steve: When you’re in Charlotte and someone tells you to check out Noble Smoke, listen to them. Five years in, Noble Smoke is clearly hitting its stride. One location, plus a small satellite spot that serves food out of the main kitchen. The owner, chef Jim Noble, is something of a Charlotte restaurant heavyweight. He runs several other concepts around town, but Noble Smoke is his only barbecue joint.
Apparently the owner traveled around to learn about the different barbecue styles. He studied at Franklin Barbecue – a super famous place in Texas known for its brisket. Super simple – just salt pepper and smoke. They also trim the briskets very specifically and I saw the same type of process at Noble. And the pit master I chatted with confirmed they use what they learned at Franklin. Very very good brisket.
Ok. The brisket was excellent. Well smoked. Held together but broke with a push of a fork. Still moist.
Pork – also excellent. Moist, tender and luscious. Really great quality – and married very well with the two vinegar based sauces.
The real surprise was the sides. The fried corn was fresh and delicious. Smoked, cut off the cob then lightly fried. Maybe some salt and pepper but the sweet corn came through. Good sweetness and nice soft crunch.
Brussel sprouts!! So much better than typical. First and foremost the were both nicely charred but not mushy! Nicely firm. Not drowned in bacon or oil or anything else. Just the sprouts done absolutely correctly. And the somewhat spicy dipping mayo was perfect.
The front desk person at the hotel confirmed – she loves the Brussels as well, and sometimes orders them just to get the sauce! I should have tried it on the pork, but didn’t think of it.
Bottom line: Noble Smoke lives up to the hype. It’s focused, dialed in, and absolutely worth the stop if you’re in Charlotte.
Noble Smoke, 2216 Freedom Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States
