Anyone who knows anything about barbecue is aware of Christopher Prieto and his relentlessly popular North Carolina restaurant, Prime Barbecue.
It’s easily one of the state’s most celebrated spots. A stacked shelf in the kitchen displays trophies from Prieto’s competition barbecue circuit days, predating recognition from the James Beard Foundation, Michelin Guide, and Texas Monthly‘s barbecue list—or Prieto’s appearance on several TV shows. When the Carolina Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup this year, captain Jordan Staal invited Prime to cater a celebratory team meal. The line outside is constant, especially on Saturdays.
Yet few realize that Prieto operates a trailer out back, using some of the same smoked meats that made him famous but paying homage to his Puerto Rican heritage.
A Backyard Party
Barely visible from the street or sprawling park in front of Prime, the clearest sign something is happening behind the barbecue restaurant is aural. On a recent weeknight, the energetic salsa of Celia Cruz, the suave rhythms of Buena Vista Social Club, and Puerto Rican star Luis Fonsi’s earworm “Despacito” took turns bursting from speakers, more noticeable than a small sandwich board indicating a path around the side of Prime to arrive at the casual backyard party…