Just across the Albemarle Sound from Edenton, there once stood a small, unassuming BBQ joint that held a big place in the hearts of many. Simp’s BBQ in Roper, NC, was more than just a place to grab a bite—it was a pillar of our community, a testament to the rich history and tradition of North Carolina BBQ.
For those of us who grew up in the South, there’s something deeply comforting about the old buildings that have weathered the storms of time. They remind us of our roots, our shared history, and the simple pleasures of life. Simp’s was one of those places. It wasn’t just about the food, though Red Simpson’s smoked pork shoulder was the stuff of legend. It was the warmth of the woodburner, the friendly faces that greeted you at the door, and the unmistakable aroma that lingered in the air, beckoning you to come in and stay a while.
Red was a master of his craft. He knew that the secret to great BBQ wasn’t in fancy gadgets or shortcuts but in patience and tradition. He smoked pork shoulder to perfection, creating a clean, lean NC BBQ that allowed the meat’s natural flavors to shine through. And he let you add the heat yourself, with a classic Eastern NC sauce that was as simple and honest as the man who made it.
When Red passed, so too did the spirit of Simp’s BBQ. The doors closed, the smoke cleared, and North Carolina lost one of its finest BBQ joints. But for those of us who were lucky enough to experience it, Simp’s will never be forgotten. It lives on in our memories, a symbol of the love we have for our heritage, our food, and the places that have shaped who we are.
Here’s to Simp’s BBQ—a true North Carolina classic.
Simps BBQ Roper North Carolina 
35°56’26.0″N 76°32’00.9″W 
Absolutely — here’s the Simp’s version in that same vibe:
Simp’s BBQ Shirt, Hat & Decals
If you ever ate at Simp’s, you already know… you didn’t just lose a BBQ joint — you lost a piece of Eastern NC.
Grab a Simp’s BBQ shirt and wear the memory like it never left. 🐖🔥
Click the image below to grab yours.
