There’s something magical about walking into a restaurant where the aroma of real butter sizzling in cast iron skillets fills the air.
Here in North Carolina, we’re blessed with authentic meat-and-three joints that haven’t given in to modern shortcuts.
These beloved institutions serve up plates of Southern comfort just like grandma used to make – with genuine ingredients and time-honored cooking methods that you can taste in every bite.
1. Cast Iron Kitchen (Wilmington)
Last summer, I stumbled upon this Wilmington gem while escaping a sudden coastal downpour. The name doesn’t lie – virtually everything here touches seasoned iron before reaching your plate. Owner and chef Josh Petty proudly displays his collection of vintage skillets, some dating back to the early 1900s. Breakfast showcases their commitment to tradition – buttermilk biscuits emerge golden from cast iron, while grits simmer slowly in heavy pots…