Chef Jake Wood of Apex, NC was best known for his fine dining expertise in the Raleigh dining scene until he made the transition into the wonderful world of barbecue. He opened his first brick and mortar restaurant in 2021 (Lawrence Barbecue), and quickly solidified his place in the barbecue conversation when Lawrence was named one of the “Best New ‘Cue Joints in The South” by Southern Living Magazine in October 2021. He focuses on his own unique style of BBQ and “Fancy Side Fixins” unlike traditional NC or Texas Style plates. Next up for Jake, he will be expanding Lawrence Barbecue into downtown Cary, NC with a projected opening date of July, 2025.