The Charlotte 500, Lap 16: Lancaster's BBQ of Huntersville

The original Lancaster's BBQ in Mooresville is one of the most famous restaurants in the Charlotte area, both for its food and because it's a favorite hangout of NASCAR drivers. For that reason, the original Lancaster's will be the subject of a future post once we have actually eaten there. Lancaster has recently opened a couple new locations, including one on Beattie's Ford Road in Huntersville.

Serving up delicious Eastern North Carolina BBQ, mustard-based slaw, and some very tasty hush puppies, all at decent prices, Lancaster's of Huntersville is highly recommended. In addition to BBQ, Lancaster's also offers catfish, fried shrimp, chicken, and burgers. But if you're in Carolina, dining at one of the most famous names in Carolina BBQ, you don't need all that - just go with the simple BBQ tray and you can't lose.

Staying true to the region's racing heritage, Lancaster's is decorated with a few items of NASCAR memorabilia and more historic gasoline station signage than I've ever seen. However, they are recreations that look brand new, which takes away some of the old-timey feel I think they were reaching for.

Someone at Lancaster's must have a sense of humor, too. The music playing over the stereo would have done Dr. Demento proud. For all I know, it was the Dr. Demento Christmas special, including songs such as "Walking in My Winter Underwear" and "Christmas on Acid" and another that included the line, "Merry Christmas you louts, it may be your last" or something in that vein. There was nothing offensive about the music - it was funny - but based on the laugher from all the tables, I could tell everyone else was surprised to hear something other than the usual watered-down, bland Christmas-pop piped in at most public places.