Vinegar vs. Tomato - View this location on map 'Now let's get something straight. Barbecue is a noun in North Carolina, not a verb. More important, the sauce base in eastern North Carolina is vinegar, not tomato. Don't use too much, though - Will Thorp, owner of High Cotton BBQ ( 252-255-2275), likens the delicate balance to that in Thai food. Confused yet? Suss it out the old-fashioned way, and dig into Will's juicy, perfectly smoked chicken-and-pork lunch combo ($6.95). On your way out, grab a bottle of brother-in-law Matt's Pig-Pickin' sauce ($4.95), and take a little of the South to go'' New York Times 5230 Virginia Dare Trail North, Kitty Hawk, NC Restaurant, Local spot, Budget

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