Smokehouse at Monkey Junction, Wilmington NC

In this Pit Stop Adventure episode, the crew returns to one of their favorite old stomping grounds—Wilmington, North Carolina—kicking things off with a mandatory stop at Port City Java, which they proudly crown as the best coffee in the world. The trip blends nostalgia and exploration as they cruise through historic downtown Wilmington, highlighting its stunning architecture dating back to the 1700s, the vibrant energy of Front Street, the iconic Riverwalk, and the city’s deep roots as the “Hollywood of the East,” home to productions like Dawson’s Creek, One Tree Hill, Blue Velvet, and Iron Man. After revisiting Cape Fear Community College, where both hosts once attended school, the focus turns to barbecue—this time at The Smokehouse in Monkey Junction, a Wilmington-area favorite with sister locations in Leland and Southport. Founded by Troy, a Texas transplant who honed his craft on offset smokers, the restaurant blends Texas technique with Carolina tradition in a clean, polished, semi-commercial setting that still retains rustic charm. The menu impressed with generous portions and solid value, featuring pulled pork, ribs, brisket, hush puppies, Brunswick stew, baked beans, and potato salad. Highlights included well-balanced Lexington-style red sauce and classic Eastern vinegar sauce, both pairing beautifully with smoky, juicy pulled pork that showcased flavorful bark and seasoning. The ribs stood out with a unique cinnamon-forward spice rub, tender texture, and strong smoke, while the brisket—though slightly dry on the lean cut—delivered excellent pepper-forward flavor and a pronounced smoke ring. Sides ranged from solid baked beans with a subtle heat to a polarizing but flavorful pickle-heavy potato salad, while the Brunswick stew offered hearty portions and traditional tang. Overall, the Smokehouse left a strong impression, earning a definite return visit and reinforcing Wilmington’s reputation as a destination where history, food, and Southern character come together effortlessly.