Jake Wood
Lawrence Barbecue, Durham, N.C.

Jake Wood is the 35-year-old Chef/Owner of Lawrence Food Co. located in Durham, N.C., consisting of Lawrence BBQ, Lagoon Leisure Bar, and the forthcoming Leroy’s Tacos n Beer. Growing up in Apex, N.C., food was always a part of the conversation in the Wood household. Taking great influence from his Papa Allen Lawrence and Granny Helen, Jake found his passion for barbecuing and perfecting family recipes. In 2019, Wood was named one of FSR Magazine’s Rising Stars and started Lawrence Food Company shortly thereafter. From ghost kitchens and pop-ups amidst the global pandemic, Wood was able to open his first restaurant, Lawrence Barbecue, which opened in June 2021, and was named one of Southern Living’s “Best New ‘Cue Joints in the South” in October 2021.

Jake’s Instagram: @palmtreesandpigs
Lawrence Barbecue’s Instagram: @lawrencebarbecue
www.lawrencebarbecue.com