ENC Favorite BBQ: Morris Barbeque

HOOKERTON, N.C. (WNCT) — Every Tuesday in July WNCT will highlight some of ENC’s favorite barbeque spots. From old school favorites to some with a new school twist, places all over the east will be shown to find out why barbeque is a way of life.

The month starts with Greene County and the small Town of Hookerton. There is a family there that serves up some great barbeque that dates back to the 1930’s.

William Morris is the third-generation owner of Morris Barbeque. His grandfather, Willie “Pop” Morris, started the tradition. Morris’ daughter, Ashley Godley, also works at the family business.

“He started in ’31. The restaurant was built here in ’56, so that’s 68 years. In March it made 68 years. And I feel like we’re doing something right.” said William Morris.

“I’m an only child so it will one day, you know, which I already feel like it’s already partly mine. I take good pride in it.” said Ashley Godley.

One thing that makes Morris unique is that they’re only open on Saturdays. This means that many of the ten or so people who work there also work other full-time jobs during the week.

“A lot of work. I tell people I went into college I didn’t have to work on Saturday. Now I work every Saturday. But no, it’s good. We’ve had in recent years so many local barbecue places close, I think just having these little hole in the wall joints are pretty cool.” said Ashley Godley’s husband, Ryan.

People head to Morris Barbeque from all over the state.

“We have people that come from all over. We have a couple that come from Clayton just about every week. People are driving hours to eat. We’re kind of a destination place.” said Ashley Godley.

Watch the video to see more about Morris Barbeque.

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