Uncovering East Carolina BBQ and the Smoky History of Skylight Inn BBQ in Ayden, NC
- Coach Casey
- Aug 18, 2022
- 2 min read

Located in the heart of Ayden, North Carolina, Skylight Inn BBQ stands as a beacon of traditional Southern barbecue excellence. With a rich history dating back generations, this iconic establishment has garnered a loyal following for its mouthwatering smoked meats and signature flavors. In this review, we delve into the roots of Skylight Inn, explore its renowned menu offerings, assess the dining experience, examine its impact on the local community, compare it with other BBQ joints in the area, and provide a final verdict with recommendations for visitors seeking an authentic taste of North (East) Carolina barbecue.

Location and Background
Nestled in the heart of Ayden, North Carolina, Skylight Inn BBQ stands as a beacon of traditional Carolina barbecue. Located at 4618 S Lee St, this iconic establishment has been serving up mouthwatering BBQ since 1947.
Stepping into Skylight Inn BBQ is like stepping back in time to a simpler era where quality meats and classic flavors reign supreme. With its humble beginnings and steadfast commitment to tradition, this spot is a must-visit for any BBQ aficionado.
History and Legacy of Skylight Inn
Skylight Inn BBQ was founded by Pete Jones, a visionary pitmaster with a passion for perfecting the art of wood-smoked barbecue. With just a dream and a dedication to his craft, Pete set out to create a BBQ joint that would become a cornerstone of Eastern North Carolina's culinary scene.
The legacy of Skylight Inn BBQ lives on through Pete Jones' descendants, who continue to uphold the family tradition of slow-cooking whole hogs over wood embers. Their unwavering commitment to preserving the authenticity of Eastern North Carolina BBQ has earned them a loyal following and widespread acclaim.
Menu and Signature BBQ Offerings

At Skylight Inn BBQ, the menu showcases a lineup of traditional BBQ favorites, including
tender pulled pork, crispy cracklins, and tangy vinegar-based sauces. The consistency in every bite is a testament to the time-honored traditions that have been passed down through generations.
In addition to their classic BBQ offerings, Skylight Inn BBQ also features a variety of specialty dishes and sides that complement the main attractions. From hearty collard greens to buttery cornbread, every bite is designed to tantalize the taste buds and leave you craving more.