I feel sorry for people living outside of NYC/northern NJ for food. I have been to state after state eating in restaurants thinking this is crap. In Myrtle beach, South Carolina I went to an Italian restaurant. The restaurant looked like millions of dollars was used to make it. I know Italian food being from NY/NJ. The food tasted like someone who grew up in Kansas made it.
I imagine the Italian trial and error was pretty shabby after coming from the mecca. Still, southern cuisine is pretty impressive stuff tho. I can see why those good 'ol boys grow to 300lbs. I've only had a chance to sample a few regional specialties but if you're down that way again be sure to check it out. Lots of Tarheel Getbiggers here to show ya round.
But Alphonso's Pizzeria, closely followed by Rudolpho's... with an ice cold coke - defining memories of my NJ youth!