Tarpackers: Home to Great Food and a Friendly Rivalry

A month ago we headed to Saint Pauls, NC for a long-awaited visit and lunch date with our friends Debi and Doug. They had invited us for a meal at Tarpackers Restaurant, known not only locally, but throughout these parts of North Carolina for great food and a special atmosphere.

While we waited for them to open, we shot a few photos. But ALAS! It was not to be! Although no sign was posted in the window, we soon learned they were CLOSED for the week! AAARRGH!

But not to be deterred, we ambled across the street to El Rancho Mexican Restaurant, where the food and fellowship more than filled the bill.

Judi (only our inner circle knows why I spellied it with an "i" this time) and Ken enjoy Mexican cuisine (I know, "cuisine" is French).

Debi and Doug are wonderful hosts. They are two of the most dedicated educators in Robeson County (I say that on faith, not having met the others). : )

I think you can figure this one out.

Anyway, fast forward to last week. We were determined to make it back to Tarpackers before school started, and we were successful.

The first thing you'll notice about the Tarpackers name and sign is that it merges the logos and colors of this state's greatest college rivalry. (Sorry, but you won't find any Dook-themed eateries outside of Durham, and precious few there).

Inside is the UNC or NC State fan's dream. Here's a menagerie of memorabilia and paraphernalia from State's glory days.

And here's Carolina's similarly partisan display. I think they may need to add a room for more of this soon.
Every photo, keepsake, or banner was wrapped in memories for long-time sports fans. For me that goes back to my freshman year at UNC in 1971.

One of hundreds of Michael Jordan shots that were strictly "money."

Even as we dined on the delicious fare, the overhead rafters bore reminders of the two schools' national prominence throughout their existence.

Yes, we had a wonderful visit--make that two visits-- with Debi and Doug. We need to get together more anyway, and Tarpackers makes a convenient excuse.

Just desserts. And just fantastic! (Don't overlook my fudge cake, top left)

GO TAR HEELS!