Some friends and I stumbled upon Carter's by accident as we were driving through East Texas in 2004 (going to high school football playoff games).
Well, the building doesn't look like much, and the menu doesn't have a lot of items, but ...
The ribs are plain ol' good. Dry rub, with a bit of a peppery taste. The Carter's Special is a unique dish that is also a great deal at $7. A nice, big ladel full of beans, topped with a generous portion of chopped brisket, some chopped onions, pickles, and your choice of sausage or boudain.
The tea is served from a big, orange Gott cooler. Then grab a handful of white bread. Not much sauce needed, either.
We loved the unpretentiousness and the fact that everyone who seemed to be "working folks," and they generally know where to go.
Northeast Texas isn't really known for great barbecue, but this is one of my favorite spots.
