Sam Jones Recognized with a Visit NC Award
We’re grateful to see our very own Sam Jones honored with a Visit NC Award for his contributions to North Carolina’s culinary scene! This recognition means a lot, as it highlights not just our food but the culture and traditions that go into every plate we serve. Keeping the tradition of Eastern NC barbecue alive is what we love to do, and we’re proud to share it with y’all every day.
WNCT (March 19, 2024) - GREENVILLE, N.C. — Sam Jones of Sam Jones BBQ and Skylight Inn BBQ was honored with Visit NC Winners’ Circle award at an event Monday in Greenville.
Now in its 20th year, the Winners Circle award honors significant and continuing contributions to the growth and success of the state’s tourism industry. Previous honorees include: Hugh Morton of Grandfather Mountain, Scott Mason of WRAL’s Tar Heel Traveler, Frank Capra Jr. of the former E.U.E. Screen Gems’ Wilmington studios, Jim Early of the N.C. Barbecue Society and Peggy Kirk Bell of Mid Pines and Pine Needles golf courses in Southern Pines. Jones is the first barbecue restaurant owner to receive the award.
“I was humbled and honored to be a recipient of this award,” said Sam Jones. “There are so many wonderful folks across the state that contribute to tourism. In my travels, I’ve always been super proud to be from North Carolina. I can promise we’ll continue to promote our great state via the avenue of wood-fired whole hog barbecue.”