Skylight Inn BBQ

Came in about 45min to closing planning on a quick bite as we passed through. Employees were very kind, the gentleman working the register was great. Food was okay.. honestly expected much better based on reviews, and likely wouldnt be back, but 4 stars because they were nice and the food came out quick

Visited Skylight Inn BBQ in Ayden, NC yesterday — a true Eastern NC BBQ landmark that’s been around since 1947. The building with the Capitol dome is hard to miss, and inside you’ll find a simple, old-school counter-service setup with a wall full of history and photos. I was a little disappointed they were out of chicken during my visit, but the pork more than made up for it. Tender, smoky, and chopped just right, with that signature Eastern NC vinegar tang. The slaw was crisp and refreshing, and the cornbread was a nice touch. Picked up bottles of both the Skylight Inn Eastern NC style sauce and the Sam Jones sweet BBQ sauce to take home — both are excellent. If you’re anywhere near Eastern NC, this is a must-visit BBQ spot. Just arrive early if you want more menu variety, especially t

I was informed this was the best BBQ in all of NC. I had their pulled pork sandwich. It changed my life. With or without sauce, every bite was tasty and juicy. This will be another place I'll have to visit once a month to try everything on their menu. Cannot wait. 🍽 It is 08/09/2025 and I had the chicken. Blown away!

Loved it and the simplicity! BBQ was how bbq should be,not overpowered with sauces. You taste the meat and the skin in it was chef's kiss! The banana pudding is top tier just like grandma's, and you don't find it made like that anymore! I couldn't pass on the skins which were awesome! First time there and I will be back! Highly recommend!

Best NC eastern-style BBQ. Chopped pork contains crackling that can be unexpected for first-timers. The crackling adds a touch of texture and flavor that compliments the moist chopped pork. The barbecue is the star of the show. The coleslaw is tinted yellow that’s surprisingly sweet, almost too sweet for some people who might be searching for a tangy or mayo based slaw, and the cornbread is to dense for my liking - it doesn’t add any value to the meal. If I could pair Skylight’s BBQ with Parker’s coleslaw, it would be a perfect match. I didn’t order the chicken and I’m not sure I ever would, it appears to be slow cooked in a sauce, not smoked like chicken at B’s BBQ. Expect a line during peak lunch time but there is plenty of seating as long as people don’t linger too long after finishing