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Charlotte restaurateur's longtime BBQ dream inches closer to reality

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte chef Jim Noble has waited 25 years to open a barbecue restaurant — now, he’s just months away from making that a reality.

Noble Smoke is targeting a March opening. That restaurant will be located at 2216 Freedom Drive.

Expect that establishment to deliver when it comes to wood-smoked meats — think pork, ribs, chicken and brisket that pull from both North Carolina and Texas traditions — and “thoughtful” sides. That means pan-fried corn, collards, smoked carrots, roasted veggies and, of course, mac’n cheese.

“We just don’t want it to get too fancy,” Noble says.

The goal is to create a destination in the Southeast. Noble Smoke will set itself apart with a focus on food and quality, he adds.

“I think Charlotte doesn’t have a signature barbecue place,” Noble says.

Read more about his plans here.

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