Atlanta runs on smoked meat. While the city is celebrated globally for its Southern hospitality, civil rights history, and hip-hop legacy, locals know that the true soul of the metro area often resides in a cast-iron smoker. From the bustling streets of Sweet Auburn to the sprawling suburbs of Cobb County, the scent of hickory and oak hangs heavy in the humid Georgia air.
Finding the "best" barbecue in a city this size is a contentious sport. Are you looking for tender, pull-apart pork that requires no teeth, or are you chasing the perfect bark on a brisket that has been resting for half a day? Atlanta offers a distinct regional style—often characterized by a sweet, tomato-based sauce and a heavy influence from traditional Southern cooking—but it also embraces the techniques of Texas and the Carolinas.
In this guide, we cut through the smoke to bring you the definitive list of pitmasters who are doing it right. We have evaluated these establishments based on the quality of the meat, the consistency of the smoke ring, the balance of the sauces, and the overall atmosphere. Whether you are a local looking for a new weekly haunt or a visitor wanting to taste the best of the ATL, this list has you covered.
We prioritize places that honor the craft of low-and-slow cooking. You will not find gas-assist ovens or microwaved ribs on this list. These are the spots where the pitmaster arrives before the sun comes up, where the wood is stacked high, and where the meat is often sold out by early afternoon because quality trumps quantity.
From James Beard-recognized chefs to humble roadside shacks that have been smoking for generations, the diversity of Atlanta’s barbecue scene is unmatched. Get your wet wipes ready, loosen your belt, and prepare to explore the smokiest corners of the capital of the South.
Below is a curated selection of the fifteen best barbecue joints in the Atlanta area, each offering a unique flavor profile that represents the best of Georgian pitcraft.
Fox Bros Bar-B-Q
| Address | 1238 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 577-4030 |
We went to Fox Brothers BBQ while visiting from Alabama and had a great experience from start to finish. We ordered a range of items to get a good feel for the menu, including the spare ribs, brisket, pulled pork, collards, French fries, and mac and cheese.
The BBQ stood out immediately. The meats were smoked to perfection, with a strong smoke ring and plenty of juiciness in both the brisket and ribs. The pulled pork was tender and flavorful. The sides held their own as well. The French fries came out hot and crunchy, exactly how they should be. The collards were well-seasoned and satisfying, and the mac and cheese was rich and cheesy without being overdone.
We also had a couple of drinks from the bar, which added to the overall experience and made it a relaxed, enjoyable evening.
Service made a big difference. Lauren took excellent care of us, stayed attentive throughout the meal, and made sure everything came out right.
Overall, this was a strong BBQ experience with well-executed meats, solid sides, and great service. I would definitely come back the next time I’m in the area.
We were on vacation when we visited this place. The sides we ordered (Cole slaw, beans, green beans and tots) were very good. Chicken was juicy and tender. The ribs had good taste but were a bit dry. Our server was great and the food was delivered in mere seconds. The pudding was awesome. Parking can be challenging.
This was honestly the best BBQ we have ever had. It was amazing from start to finish. The beans were incredible, the Mac and cheese was simply great. The pulled pork sandwhich, with added Alabama sauce was to die for. THE FRITO BAG SIDE WAS WOWW. We even enjoyed the banana pudding so much. And most of all Cassidy was one of the best waitressing have ever encountered in my life. So friendly, attentive, kind and also did everything she can to make sure we tried everything and enjoyed everything we got. We were able to have an incredible experience with her guidance. They are so lucky to have her! Thank you so much!
Sorry for the shotty pictures, but I’m lucky I got any photos at all before scarfing this deliciousness down in the back of my Uber on the way to the airport. (Shout out to the nicest uber driver on earth who insisted I eat my food while it was fresh.)
I absolutely could not leave Atlanta without trying Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q and was cutting it extremely close to my flight, and the manager, Michael B, was incredible. He personally packaged my food to make sure I could get in and out quickly, and even made sure I had extra napkins and plasticware for the Uber ride.
I ordered the brisket and smoked wings with mac and cheese and collard greens, and everything was fantastic. The brisket was melt in your mouth tender and so flavorful, the wings had a great smoky taste (order them dry!), and the mac was creamy and delicious. Them greens tho... 100% the best collards I've ever had; they were sweet but finished with a hint of spice. Absolutely incredible.
I luckily made my flight and Fox Bros. was the perfect last bite of Atlanta. However, if I had to choose I would have gladly missed that flight.
We decided to try this restaurant based on a suggestion from my stepson. In my opinion, it is too dark and gloomy inside. As we walked in, we were told that they were low on the mac & cheese and another item. Once we began to place our orders, the mac & cheese was out. I ordered the veggie plate: baked beans, collard greens and salad. As a result of the mac & cheese being out, I ordered double collard greens. The collard greens and baked beans had a spicy kick to them. Would I dine here again? Probably not. The wait for our food was reasonable approximately 10 minutes for a party of 4. Our waitress was very polite and professional.
Fat Matt's Rib Shack
| Address | 1811 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 607-1622 |
Potato salad- tasty-a bit too creamy
The chips were lays, I thought they made their own.
Beans-too tangy, don’t like the sauce look. Don’t taste like rum beans.
Greens-love that they are fresh. It’s got a particular taste due to their seasoning that I don’t like. wish it was more smoked turkey taste.
Chicken sandwich was frail, just lil meat and basic bread, meat has a tangy taste
Mac-made for kids
Ribs- not was I was expecting from a nostalgic restaurant downtown Atl. Burnt & basic looking sweating through the paper.
Small menu. I wasn’t a fan kinfolk.
Literally just leaving the restaurant. Not worth the $29.44 spent. Ribs tasted like they were left over from the previous day, the side of baked beans and Mac n cheese was ok. The lemonade was amazing. I hate having to ask staff for to go containers and a lid for my drink.
absolutely delicious! the ribs were FALL OFF THE BONE tender, the collard greens were DIVINE will be back 10000%
Fat Matt’s is legendary for a reason . Great BBQ and tasty blues in an iconic , historic location . Opened 35 years ago and still going strong .
We arrived well after the lunch rush , around 2:15 , and there was a line out the door stretching into the parking lot . It moved quickly though , and the short wait was well worth it .
The ribs were smoked just up to the point of falling off the bone , but left just firm enough to pick em up and eat with your fingers . If you know good ribs , you know that’s how they should be . The Brunswick stew is up there with the best I’ve ever had , and I’m picky about my stew . The sauce is zesty with just a bit of heat … my wife and I both loved it . Speaking of my wife , she’s pickier than I am and was absolutely thrilled with her chicken quarter and collards .
10 out of 10 , will come again.
Y’all check it out .
Follow - up :
Y’all it was so good we were back just 4 days later . If anything it was better . Y’all come and get it !
I often visit fat Matt and I usually don’t leave a review, I couldn’t let this pass, I stopped in on Friday ordered the combo 1/4 chicken & 1/4 ribs take out it was delicious, decided to go Saturday and purchased the same item arrived home to my surprise the chicken and ribs were burnt even the bones to the ribs were burned black, I contacted them by email no response I called Monday and they replaced the order again to my surprise the chicken was fine the ribs had no meat on them only the part that would be called the tip is there a meat shortage or only big orders get the best ribs? I will stay away until it gets better. I don’t care how you wrap it in white paper to make your getting good meat when you open it this is what you have🤬
Broad Street BBQ
| Address | 96 Broad St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
Phenomenal BBQ. We tried the pork and the brisket. Sides were perfect. The Mac and cheese was flavorful and the greens weren’t cooked down to mush. The Ho Cakes took me back to my childhood and don’t get me started on the cocktail menu and drinks. We enjoyed the Field of Dreams but don’t miss The Odds and Ends! The service was friendly and attentive. Thanks Josh and the rest of the team. Can’t wait to visit y’all again!
I mean c’mon - how you can you not want to go here?! Just follow your nose and the smells of good cooking on the smokers. The food is great. The drinks are great. The space is great. Well done Team. Can’t wait to be back.
Wow! Broad St BBQ is damn good! I ordered takeout, food came out within minutes and it was all delicious.
I’m very critical of any mac n cheese since I’m a southern chef taught by my grandmother… I must admit, that mac is the real deal! The BBQ was cooked perfectly, I got the chopped pork and fatty brisket slices. The sauce (both sweet and spicy options) were tasty. Nothing about this meal was greasy, everything was fresh and balanced. The cole slaw was a simple treat, no need for extra frills. This restaurant is a welcome addition to an area that had been untapped for years! In the City of Atlanta, we don’t have many gems like this one. I’m impressed and I’ll be back! Thank you!
Great to-go drinks! sliced or chopped brisket sandwich with the spicy sauce is the go to! Jason and Sam are creating something special here in the heart of South Downtown
Amazing bbq. You won't find sides or drinks like this anywhere else. Haven't tried the meats yet but definitely coming back soon to do that! Very friendly staff, and the drink "What Are You, The Police" is a must-try. 11/10
Twin Smokers BBQ
| Address | 300 Marietta St NW Ste 104, Atlanta, GA 30313 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 698-4707 |
Food is excellent, I had brisket, ribs, Mac n cheese and charro beans. We are in from Texas for our anniversary and this was a perfect anniversary meal. Hubs had a turkey sandwich and mac n cheese. Oh and the sweet tea fantastic. A bit pricey for the portion sizes, but all bbq is pricey. But this is so worth it. I definitely recommend you visit if you haven't been yet. We will be back next time we come through ATL.
The BBQ was awesome, im from Texas and this place has some of the best BBQ i have ever eaten. Atmosphere was nice. Went for late lunch and it wasn't loud. You could have a conversation easily. Staff was very friendly and helpful
We had the best ribs we’ve ever tasted at Twin Smokers! Totally exceeded our expectations, from the time we stepped inside. Our waitress, Jenair, made the experience even more pleasant, as she was so positive and met all our needs with such a great attitude! We will definitely be back & will definitely ask for Jenair again! Thank you for going above and beyond! ❤️🫶❤️ (P.S: the full rack of ribs will feed 3 people for a great price!)
What an extraordinary place. The ambiance, the music, the atmosphere, the décor — everything is amazing. And the most outstanding part of all is the food.
We ordered the smoked wings, and they were absolutely incredible. They serve complimentary house-made chicharrones as a starter — so good! The brisket was tender and delicious, without being overly sweet. And the turkey breast was perfectly juicy and packed with amazing flavor.
And our server, Rachel, was fantastic!
Our family wanted to have some great bbq before we left Atlanta to head back to Chicago. Our only regret in choosing Twin Smokers BBQ is that we wish we would have gone sooner, so we could have it again before we left! There was not one single thing we had that we thought was just “good” … everything was amazing! We had the loaded potato with brisket, corn bread, Mac n cheese, brisket sandwiches, beans, corn bread and a great peach moonshine cocktail. The one thing that made this place extra special was Jenair. From the moment she greeted us, she went above and beyond to show true southern hospitality— she made sure we were happy with everything, had great suggestions (not the fake suggestions so many places give - she knew the food), talked about what was in the food, told us the story of the smokers, restaurant and their other restaurants on the block and the place even let my son look at the smokers and learn about them. Jenair even taught us about which wood is used for which meats. We’ve never had such a genuine and sweet server! We will absolutely be making our way back to Atlanta just to see her smiling face and have more of the impeccably delicious bbq! 5⭐️ isn’t high enough of a rating for this place! Try this place and ask for Jenair, you will not be disappointed!
Lewis Barbecue Atlanta
| Address | Walk Down Breezeway To The Left Of Publix, 1544 Piedmont Ave NE #406, Atlanta, GA 30324 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 939-9567 |
The food was excellent with one exception, the beans were not seasoned and under cooked, very chewy. The brisket,pulled pork, macaroni and cheese and collard greens were really good. Now, the daily special was the sliced smoked prime rib and queso cheese sandwich. It was excellent!! The sandwich was delicious and the best thing that I tasted in my visit. I will try the short rib on my next visit.
This was a different but good bbq experience. Glad I read reviews and things to know before you go section. It is behind the publix on the beltline. Coming from the parking lot tge restaurant is on the right and bar on the left. At the first counter you order cold sides, next hot sides and then you are directed to a station to order your meats by the pound . I ordered the coleslaw slaw, mac n cheese, ribs, brisket and brisket sandwich. At the restaurant I ate the brisket sandwich (delicious), coleslaw slaw- needed seasoning and had onions...WAY TOO MANY. It was horrible. Mac n cheese was good. Ribs were good and brisket was good. I should have said lean cut over moist. Plus they offer free bread, pickles and onions.
My first visit to Lewis Barbecue was an unforgettable experience. It was my first time trying authentic American smoked barbecue, and it definitely lived up to the hype.
We ordered the sliced brisket, chopped brisket sandwich, turkey breast, and several delicious sides. Everything was tender, juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
A special thanks to G, who made the experience even better. He was energetic, friendly, and took the time to walk us through the menu with great recommendations. Team members like G are the reason customers keep coming back.
Highly recommended. I’ll definitely visit again!
First visit to Lewis Barbecue, and they absolutely knocked it out of the park.
We brought a party of four, and the customer service alone sets this place apart. A huge shout out to Von and Jasmine, who welcomed us and took the time to explain everything perfectly for our first visit. They made us feel right at home.
As for the food, the quality of the meat is where this place truly shines. The brisket was incredible!!!! It had a textbook bark, was packed with deep, rich flavor, and was tender enough to pull apart with a fork. It is so good you do NOT need a drop of sauce. Don't waste your time covering up this flavor with sauce. We paired our tendernism brisket with the mac and cheese, which was the perfect side, as long as you are not lactose intolerant.
The paper plates and plastic utensils give the whole spot a casual, backyard cookout vibe, but the food itself is elite tier. Exceptional meat and top notch service. We will definitely be back.
Edit: We had a remarkable interaction with Damari as we sat back letting this heavy meal settle in. We will certainly be coming back again.
This food is delicious. I would recommend their sliced turkey sandwich ,Mac and cheese and tallow fries. Christopher at the bar had wonderful customer service. Perfectly friendly and attentive. Also a treat to be around.
Heirloom Market BBQ
| Address | 2243 Akers Mill Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | (770) 612-2502 |
Outstanding Korean-inspired, Texan barbecue! This small, Michelin recommended joint is a staple for Metro Atlanta. You order online, check in, then eat outside in the small patio area while standing. The workers are very friendly and helpful and brought our food out quite quickly. Even on a Wednesday morning, the flow of customers was fairly constant. We tried the half rack of ribs and the 2 meat platter. The ribs were super tender and easily fell off the bone without being too soft. They had a smoky flavor and an adequate amount of meat on each rib. We got the pulled pork and brisket for our meats. The pulled pork was also very tender with basically no fat. The marinade was a sweet gochujang base, which complemented the smokiness and hearty pork flavor. The brisket was cooked well and extremely tender. It was fairly juicy and was intensely rich and almost buttery. The Korean sweet potato chips were a good choice for the side—light, sweet, and crispy. Of course, the barbecue sauces were awesome. Our favorites were the Table and Korean for more of a classic or sweeter taste, but the Kitchen is good if you want a little more heat, and the Settler is their most vinegary option. This is an amazing barbecue spot that puts care into their meats!
Walked up and immediately got the best service from Andres and his best little helper. Food came out so quick (6:30 on an 85 degree Friday, btw) although I don’t doubt that there is sometimes a line. The food was absolutely incredible. We got the brisket and the spicy Korean pork, but I’m honestly wondering about the pulled pork and ribs that we didn’t get. Brisket was incredible, spicy Korean pork was also amazing but really shined on the bun with kimchi slaw and pickles. Don’t miss that DIY. I absolutely love pickles/fermented foods so the pickle variety + kimchi slaw + radish salad were incredible to me. I’m truly sorry for you if you can’t get this anymore, but the tempura sweet potato special was almost the highlight (keep them on the menu pls!!!!!!!!!!) Prices also super reasonable, will be back 100%
Heirloom Market BBQ is a very casual fast food place for takeout or standup eating or catering. One can order online or in store. Its has adequate though not abundant parking. The food is tasty and well cooked with a fusion of typical BBQ and Korean spices. There is no seating, they have a few standup tables in the covered outdoor area that one can eat at, with heaters on the walls for comfort during cold days.
Service is very fast and friendly. They accept credit cards.
Good place for a takeout BBQ or quick meal. Portions are filling.
First I wanna say customer service was on a thousand 👌Brisket was 10-10 Smoked Chicken 10-10 and I OD on the pickles (Spicy & Regular), the sides were OK not amazing but we went for BBQ not sides! Talked to one of the owners extremely nice and personable and we made some new friends. Overall we love this place and are definitely going back.
Ordered a beef dog with ketchup for pick up online. It was hot & ready to devour when I walked into the outdoor patio dining area. Heirloom Market is a true bonus to the Atlanta dining scene, and the nearby Chattahoochee River is excellent for picnic views and brown-bagging BBQ!
BBQ 56
| Address | 1563 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (470) 851-1924 |
We had an amazing experience dining here! From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere felt relaxing and welcoming — the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a great meal.
The food was absolutely outstanding. I ordered the oxtail (only available on Sunday) and ribs with okra, and every bite was packed with flavor and cooked perfectly. My daughter had the Dino Beef Ribs with macaroni, and wow — that dish was incredible too. We’re still talking about it!
I also ordered a cocktail made with tequila and ginger beer, and it was one of the best drinks I’ve had in a long time — refreshing, balanced, and delicious.
What truly made the experience exceptional was the service. Our waiter Alex was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed. Manager Blake also checked in and created such a welcoming experience that made us feel genuinely appreciated as guests.
Great food, excellent drinks, outstanding service, and a relaxing ambiance — we’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this place!
Food was very good. Our server was great and welcoming. Food came out in a timely manner. Owner was there and was nice and sociable with us. We were there whole DJ was there. But the music wasn't so loud that you couldn't have a conversation. I'll definitely be back.
BBQ is my favorite food group, so anytime I can try a new place, I take it. Walker wanted ribs so I did a search & found this little gem. Not a large place, but enough to dine in, and all the tables were full. They appear to do a lot of take out business as well. Planned to go in for the platters, so we could try the most we could. However, the oxtails are only available on Sunday, so I wanted to try them. I had the oxtail dinner (smoked & cooked in sauce & served over rice with one side) with collard greens. Walker had the 3 meats (ribs, smoked wings, & smoked chicken with two sides) with fries & Mac & cheese. We both tried everything & everything was capital De-lic-ious!
Our server was amazing, although I forgot her name. She was attentive, helpful, & friendly!
As for the oxtails, tasted like a mix between crock-pot roast beef & beef tips & rice! Other than the few bones, I would have never known it wasn’t roast beef. I highly recommend trying it if you get the chance. I will definitely be back to try more of the ribs, smoked wings, & smoked chicken.
5 stars for the vibes!
A Google search led us to this delicious restaurant as we were driving through Atlanta.
The barbecue was so fresh and tender with just the right amount of flavor. The potato salad tastes just like my Grandmother made. The onion rings were delightfully crispy and easy to eat. The sweet tea was perfect!
The service was attentive and super sweet.
So very happy we were led to this wonderful place!
I was visiting Atlanta for my Grandson's College Graduation and we went there for lunch. I have had good BBQ from a lot of places but there's is OUTSTANDING!!! I had an opportunity to talk with the owner and he is a Awesome Gentleman that cares about his product and his customers. We live out of town but I Can't Wait to Return!!!😋
Sweet Auburn BBQ
| Address | 656 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (678) 515-3550 |
When we aren't BBQ'g on the holiday, we always look for the best place in the city to celebrate the holiday and get the best BBQ we can find. This 4th of July the winner 🏆 is Sweet Auburn BBQ. Thank you Sky for hosting us with impeccable service. The "Asian fusion BBQ concept" blending Southern barbecue with Malaysian, Chinese, and Pacific Islander influences is a hit. It added a special flare to the holiday fare. We really loved the tender, fall off the bone ribs. The Pimento cheese wontons and Smoked Wings alongside the Southern classics was a welcomed treat. It has been a few years since we have been here. Glad we can still say you are still one of the best. Same quality, same delicious flavors, same value. Keep it going strong!!!!
The service was great. The food was ok. The bbq nachos were delicious. The kids burger and fries was great. The kids chicken nuggets and Mac and cheese were good. The sweet Auburn Taco plate was good, I felt like the tortillas came out cold but the flavors were good. The three meat combo was also ok. The brisket we got was lean but it was dry and lacked flavor. The ribs were great and the smoked chicken was good but didn't give the smoked flavor. Overall it was just ok, nothing special in my opinion.
The food and service was incredible. For appetizers, we had the pimento cheese wontons- so good. The cinnamon roll bread pudding was a great dessert. Ethan was an attentive and detail-oriented server.
I came here because the reviews were so good, but was disappointed. This plate cost me $35, so hopes were high.
Wings were dry, brisket was bland, collards were bitter / bland. Mac / sausage were decent, but overall the meal was rather uninspiring.
The food honestly tasted like Cisco food…I feel like prices need to drop to justify the flavor or flavor needs to improve.
Food 3.5/5 - loved the brisket egg roll! The brisket was also very good. Got the baby backs (tender but not very flavorful) and char siew ribs (very sweet with the hoisin based sauce, cannot see the resemblance to Cantonese char siew at all 😞). Pear coleslaw had zero pear. Mac and cheese was good!
Vibes 3/5 - table was so sticky (ew!) and the music was loud
Payment 1/5 - what do you mean suggested tips start at 20% and are based on the POST TAX AMOUNT? No! Just no.
Wood’s Chapel BBQ
| Address | 85 Georgia Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:30 PM |
| Phone | (404) 522-3000 |
More people should try this place. I ordered takeout and everything was ready on time. The restaurant was nice and staff were friendly. I was surprised and little concerned by how empty it was but the food delivered. The ribs and brisket were flavorful and tender, and the shoulder sandwich was juicy with perfectly toasted buttery buns. The greens were a bit sweet but still good. Cornbread was sweet and buttery. Fried and Okra were solid and the sauces paired well with each protein. Sweet tea was excellent, just wish they offered larger cups for take out. I will definitely try this place again.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Woods Chapel BBQ in Summerhill, Atlanta — Y’ALL! 🔥🔥🔥
I had the pork nachos and the Brisket Grilled Cheese, and let me tell you… that sandwich TRULY KNOCKED ME ON MY ASS! 😂😂
I’m not even exaggerating when I say this might be THE BEST SANDWICH EVER! The brisket, the cheese, the bread — BABY! Everything was doing exactly what it was supposed to do. 🤌🏾🔥
And listen… TELL THEM I SENT YOU! 😂 But I’m warning you right now: you’re gonna hurt yourself with that sandwich. It is THAT good!
The picture absolutely does NOT do this sandwich justice, but hey… I was hungry! 😂 I wasn’t worried about getting the perfect picture — I was worried about getting that sandwich in my belly!
The pork nachos were delicious too, but that Brisket Grilled Cheese? THAT’S THE ONE. If you go, do yourself a favor and order it.
Tell ’em DaVena sent you! You can thank me later. 😂🔥
10/10 — I’ll definitely be back!
We love it here. The staff is delightful, the drinks are always on point, and the food is to die for. Brunch or any time. Everything off the grill is done to perfection, everything is fresh and there's always something on special that is stellar. I love the grilled shrimp, the birria Benedict, and the chopped tostada salad!
Lovvve this place for the food, fun atmosphere (indoor and out), and friendly staff! I could eat the carnitas tacos every day of my life! The Summer Hill neighborhood is adorable too.
I visited here before awhile back in 2022. First time I visited I got chicken wings brisket sliced with pickles and onions. The food was alright. They have a full bar for those who want a drink.This time I made sure to scan the menu fully. I got a brisket grilled cheese sandwich or melt and I got 1 red sauce and 2 mustard sauces to eat my sandwich with. I used one sauce of each flavor for each half of my sandwich delicious! I also got a brisket sandwich and a banana pudding on 1-14-2026. No beef ribs but the brisket is delicious. This did it for me. Definitely worth the trip not a disappointment. Pull up and check them out for yourself.
DAS BBQ West Midtown
| Address | 1203 Collier Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 850-7373 |
This was my first time ordering from Das Bbq. I see it all the time but gave it a try, and I must say it was quite tasty! I ordered ribs, turkey and brisket with macaroni and cheese and collard greens. The brisket was perfect and tender, they have several different sauces and the BBQ flavor was 10/10. I ordered my food to go, it smelled so good I started eating the food before getting good pictures of everything but chefs kiss for this BBQ place! 10s across the board. Atmosphere is more laid back, it’s more of a neighborhood hangout polished restaurant.
Best smoked chicken. And pulled pork ive ever had! The beans and mac and cheese were fantastic. The white sauce tasted amazing with the chicken
First time to Atlanta... had to try some BBQ. DAS BBQ did NOT disappoint! Brisket was tender and flavorful, smoked turkey was juicy perfection. Collard greens were wonderfully seasoned. DAS cream corn was an absolute revelation.... so freaking good.
I have to give you this in two parts…
We decided to try four meats. We had the brisket, chicken, pulled pork and ribs. I must say that ALL FOUR MEATS WERE TENDER, JUICY AND DELICIOUS!!! The barbecue sauces were pretty good as well. However, I gave the food 4/5 because the sides made the experience quite a bit less impressive. We tried four sides as well. We had baked beans, potato salad, collard greens and coleslaw. We were able to finish the baked beans because they were the most bearable. The food was plentiful for two us and we had leftovers(shown in the picture). We ordered the 3 meat plate and the pork plate. I would DEFINITELY recommend giving this place a try!
I was nicely greeted by a warm welcome, smiling faces and fast service. I received an awesome farewell too.
ATTENTION MANAGEMENT: We thoroughly enjoyed the barbecue. It is the absolute best barbecue we have ever had from a restaurant. I can and will happily consult with you to help with sides to make the total experience you give perfect! If you are interested in that, respond here and I will reach out.
Ok…. this brisket is off the charts. Been doing a little bbq tour being back in GA and this tops all I’ve had. Cousin said pulled pork sandwich and mac n cheese bomb too. Employees super nice, helped me fix my order mistake (my mistake, not theirs) which was super super appreciated. Definitely recommend a stop. Parking lot for like 6-7 cars and outdoor or indoor seating.
Owens & Co.
| Address | 6255 Riverview Rd SE Bldg 4000 STE 100, Mableton, GA 30126 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 467-4427 |
Owens & Hull in Smyrna, GA, has garnered attention for its authentic Southern Texas barbecue experience in Georgia. They even made the top 3 list of BBQ places to eat in the US.
The restaurant has a laid back vibe, perfect for families and groups. There is plenty of space for even larger groups and I noticed a number of business people enjoying the setup.
The pulled pork are standout items, known for their tenderness and rich flavors. The smoking process appears to be a point of pride, with many customers noting the perfect level of smokiness. I also had the smoked cheeseburger which I highly recommend. Sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans complement the meats well. The mac and cheese, in particular, receives rave reviews for its creamy texture.
Owens & Hull BBQ stands out for its commitment to quality barbecue in a welcoming environment. Whether you're a local or just passing through Smyrna, it's a spot worth visiting for barbecue lovers.
I wish I hadn’t come for the brisket, otherwise I would give the food 5 stars. The pulled pork, mac and cheese, and grits were great. The flavoring on both the pulled pork and brisket was delicious (peppery and smoky), but the brisket was tough. We waited 30+ minutes for our food after ordering. We came after the main lunch rush (the restaurant was full when we got there, but half the tables had cleared 5 minutes into sitting down). The wait is not an issue if the brisket would have delivered, but sadly it just made it more disappointing.
UPDATE: So I went over the holidays on a Sunday shortly after it opened for the day and had what was by far the worst food I've ever had there. My wife and I didn't even finish it. The Pulled Pork smelled fishy and didn't taste right. It was quite dry weirdly as well. I spoke with another colleague who I had recommended it to and he said that when he went he was also underwhelmed, saying that the brisket was surprisingly dry. I thought this might have been chalked up to the holidays, but then I just came across that Bryan Hull left in October 2025. I can't remember ever having bad BBQ here prior to October 2025. But all the experiences I've had or heard since have not been good. What a catastrophic mistake. I am lowering my rating to 3/5 based on my recent visits.
ORIGINAL: This is HANDS DOWN the best BBQ in Atlanta. I personally think it's the best BBQ I've ever had. I've been here 4 times now and it's outstanding every time.
The Pulled Pork is fantastic. The Brisket is excellent with amazing juiciness and an excellent smoke ring. You are in for a real treat when they have the Waygu Brisket! It's worth the extra money for it. The Ribs are fall off the bone, melt in your mouth delicious. And then the 2 sauces here are absolute money. Their standard sauce is so well balanced. Then they have a Carolina Sauce that is a mustard vinegar that is amazing. Pairs so good with Pork. If you like real BBQ then this is your place.
Delicious Bbq next to brewery. Overlooks Chattahoochee River. Sells out of meats quickly. We went with what they had left on Sunday at 4:30 pm and were so satisfied
Bbq pulled pork and jalapeño sausage and all of the sides
Would definitely recommend
This rating and review is based on expectations given Daniel Vaughn for Texas Monthly reviewed this place (a very rare but impressive accolade). We had 1lb brisket (flat and point), 1lb pulled pork, 1/2 rack spare ribs, a sausage link, small grits and large mac and cheese. With theee soft drinks, we paid $132. Definitely high but I’m ok if I’m getting central Texas level bbq. We didn’t get that.
The brisket was just ‘ok’, too dry, even the point. Righteous and Das are much better, particularly given O&H are at the high end of price at $40/lb. Pulled pork and sausage link was fine but not memorable. The $22 half rack ribs needed more time. I don’t need fall off the bone but I’m not looking for a ton of meat left on the bone either.
The grits were good, not outrageous though. The mac and cheese was very good but OMG the price. One quart for $19! It was very good, not $19 worth.
The counter service person was very curt, abrupt and not welcoming at all. The cutter was very pleasant though.
They weren’t busy at all at 1:30pm on a Saturday. I was expecting a line. There were 4 other table of people. The kicker is $6 to park. There was mention of retail validation but no clue on how to get it as you’ve paid when you leave your car.
Show and Tell BBQ
| Address | Donald L Hollowell Pkwy & James P, Brawley Dr, Atlanta, GA 30318 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 422-9376 |
Finally found the bbq taste I've been Craving!! Ribs and Brisket are so tendy and tasty. Smoky goodness. So glad I can say the exact taste of bbq and brisket I've been seeking I finally found!! My bbq goto spot now!!!
This is WITHOUT A DOUBT the best BBQ you can find in Atlanta. Crushes all the other spots in the city. If you’re lucky enough to come when it’s not busy, you’ll have the pleasure of meeting John. John treated me like family from the second I showed up. God bless John and his world class BBQ!!!
Delicious! Ribs & Mac and Cheese were everything you would want them to be. Chef Jeezy gave us the best service!! Excited for his new location in Westside Motor Lounge to open!
The atmosphere was great! everyone was very friendly, respectful very relaxing place. And the food was great with reasonable prices.
Stopped here on my way out of Atlanta to get some good barbecue before flying back home to Oregon. As a native Alabamian, I’ve been missing barbecue and this did not disappoint. Some of the best I’ve ever had, plus just such a nice guy running it! 10/10 will come back next time I’m in Atlanta.
Doug's North Carolina BBQ
| Address | 1235 Chattahoochee Ave NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (252) 347-2376 |
I wanted to like it but it was nasty. The “candied” yams werent candied. They had no spices added and were extremely under cooked. The beef brisket was good without the bbq sauce. The collard greens werent the best but were okay. They had large stems on it and were a bit tough. The mac & cheese had no real flavor outside of the black pepper that was added to it. It wasn’t worth $46 unfortunately.
Tried Doug's for the fist time the other night (themed support of the Carolina Hurricanes), and it was a delightful eye-opener! Excellent ribs & pulled smoked turkey! The sides were great too; beans, mac & a surprise sleeper was the kale slaw! More like a good, light kale salad. Great counterpart to the smoked meats. Add to all that, the service was friendly & super helpful for first time customers. Will definitely be back!
If you are looking for the ultimate comfort meal, you absolutely have to visit Doigs NC BBQ in Atlanta, GA. I’ve never been a huge fan of pudding, but their banana pudding is absolutely incredible—rich, creamy, and I can't leave without it. Pair that heavenly dessert with their perfectly fried, crispy fish, and it’s a match made in heaven. The staff is friendly, and the fish is fresh, light, and never too salty. It’s a 10/10 experience! Great service, food and got a free dessert, love them!!
Brisket was very tender and perfect flavor. Typically, I see the red rim below the bark, but this was fully done brown and the taste was great. The greens were great and the kale slaw was good. $32 I believe and I really had no complaints. Maybe it could’ve came with cornbread or Texas toast, but this was fine. Guy was cool at the register and putting my plate together. I’d come back here and recommend. The thin barbecue sauce is vinegar tasting and delicious if you like that kind of taste and thinness. It’s very thin though so you may not expect it as bbq sauce. They have another regular barbecue sauce option also.
The food was A1! As a NC native, it was so good to have a taste of home while I was on vacation. There’s several plate options depending on your budget. While waiting for my order to be ready, it was really nice to have the Food hall to walk through. Turkey options are scarce so it was great having this place as an available option!
Stan's Smoke Signals BBQ
| Address | 850 James Jackson Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: Closed Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (678) 592-4584 |
As a person that BBQ, not many people can make food i feel is good. The ribs he had were great and I would definately return one day. Sides were okay. The beef sausage was not sausage at all. It is a beef hot dog. Free water while waiting in line too
I was finally able to get a taste of Stan’s without the super long wait and I was not disappointed. The beef sausage was great. The barbecue sauce was tasty, it wasn’t too sweet or bold. He did great with the sauce. The rib sandwich was perfect. The rib wasn’t fatty, the meat was tender and well seasoned. I’m a picky eater and was thoroughly impressed. Try them out if you want some good barbecue.
If you know, you KNOW.
Stan’s Smoke Signals BBQ is hands down some of the best BBQ in Atlanta, and yes — it’s Black owned and doing it RIGHT. The smoked chicken? Juicy, seasoned all the way through, and not dry at all. The greens taste like somebody’s grandma stood over that pot with love. And the oxtails?? Baby. Falling off the bone, rich, tender, and worth every single dollar.
I’m not even going to lie — it might be a wait. But good food is not fast food. It’s fresh, it’s hot, and it’s worth it. I’d rather wait on quality than get rushed mediocrity.
Support Black-owned. Support flavor. I’ll definitely be back.
Atmosphere:First off I was immediately turned off with guy near food truck asking everyone to buy him some food. I did like the complimentary water while waiting to order.
Food: I ordered ribs, turkey leg, sausage, dressing and Mac and cheese ( only 2 side options because everything else was sold out). Ribs were juicy but no flavor and some pieces were burnt. Dressing was bland and the Mac and cheese noodles were too soft(mushy). The sausage was delicious and I can't rate the turkey leg because I gave it away.
Service: The lady who took my order was very polite and friendly. My food was ready quickly and everything was hot.
Drove from Stone Mountain for the hype and I'm disappointed. Definitely won't return
This was my first visit. Standing outside in the line for a food truck wasn't horrible and ordering went quickly. Service was great, price for the ribs and chicken wings (no sides) was reasonable but I wasn't a fan. Ribs and chicken smelled flavorful but ribs were not tender and wings were too charred and slightly dry. I won't be returning.
DAS BBQ
| Address | 350 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (404) 850-7373 |
I did an online order for one slab of ribs. They cut the ribs up into individual pieces, which was never done before(normally cut in half). They were good but didn’t look like a whole slab. I ordered a mac & cheese and a banana pudding when I arrived. He scraped the last corner of the mac&cheese, ignoring me asking for some from a fresh pan. It was dry barely filed container.The bananas were brown. Most of the pudding was whipped cream on top and it made my stomach hurt. Less than 1/3 was pudding.
Solid BBQ (WHEN brisket & wings are at their best, they're pretty top-notch), decent service and good atmosphere. Sometimes they run out of food. Most recently, I purchased a quart of greens and visually noticed it was a light serving. I weighed it on my kitchen scale when I got home and it was barely more than a pint (473 g -- a quart is 946 g btw). I returned to the Grant Park location. They put more collards in the container and I knew it was still too light to be one quart. Sure enough, the scale doesn't lie (699 g). The kid was young, so I didn't complain nor did I have a scale in my back pocket. 😆 In this case, strong customer service would mean giving me a whole new quart of greens w/ an apology for having to drive back in the first place. Instead, I returned home to 3/4 qt of collard greens. I give up. 🫤
Very nice place visually but the food was not good at all. The ribs were definitely made in the oven possibly boiled 1st. and flavorless. I doubt they ever touched a grill or a smoker. The brisket was tender but flavorless no smoke flavor at all. The sides was even worse. Box mac and cheese with possibly the worse greens I had in my life. They were sweet like someone put sugar in them. I asked for a substitute and got baked bean one of the employees said the greens had apple juice in it. Smh save your money. I had a better BBQ diner from Kroger deli.
Service was good and this place will be amazing in the summer because of their patio. For a first visit, I opted to get the smkoed turkey and brisket as part of their two meat plate. There are sides to match almost taste- collard greens, baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad- you get the picture. Worth a visit!!
This was my second time coming here and probably my last, unfortunately. I stopped by around 11 a.m., shortly after they opened. The baked beans and mac and cheese were amazing, but the brisket was SUPER dry. It honestly tasted like it had been cooked the night before and reheated because how is the brisket this dry when y’all just opened 🤨? The sides saved the meal, but the brisket was disappointing, especially for a BBQ spot.
Essential Tips for Navigating the Atlanta BBQ Scene
Before you jump in your car and start following your nose, there are a few unwritten rules to eating barbecue in Atlanta. Knowing how to navigate the scene will ensure you get the best possible product, as true barbecue is a finite resource that requires timing and strategy. Use the following tips to elevate your experience from a simple meal to a true culinary pilgrimage.
Go Early or Go Hungry
The best pitmasters cook a specific amount of meat every day. Unlike fast food, they cannot simply "whip up" another brisket when they run out at 1:00 PM. If a restaurant is famous, aim to arrive for an early lunch or check their social media for "sold out" announcements before making the drive.
Focus on the House Specialty
Every great Atlanta BBQ joint has a signature item. Some are pork temples, while others specialize in beef ribs or smoked wings. Don’t order chicken at a place known for its chopped pork; trust the pitmaster’s specialty and order what they are famous for.
Try the Sauce on the Side
Georgia sauce can be divisive—often sweeter and sometimes mustard-based depending on the region. To truly judge the quality of the smoke, take a bite of the meat naked first. A great pitmaster seasons the meat so well that sauce is merely an accessory, not a requirement.
Don’t Sleep on the Sides
In the South, barbecue is a full plate experience. A place that takes the time to make creamy mac and cheese from scratch, stew the collard greens with smoked turkey, or bake a proper cornbread is usually putting the same care into their meat. A weak side dish is often a red flag for weak barbecue.
Embrace the "Meat and Three" Vibe
Many of Atlanta’s best spots are counter-service or hole-in-the-wall establishments. Do not expect white tablecloths. The ambiance is part of the charm—it is about the craft, the community, and the food, not the decor.
Atlanta’s barbecue identity is constantly evolving, with new pitmasters pushing boundaries while old-timers hold down tradition. Whether you are feasting on a massive beef rib in the city or driving out to the country for a vinegar-based chopped sandwich, the common thread is patience. Good smoke cannot be rushed.
Take your time to explore these institutions. Compare the bark on the brisket, the snap of the sausage, and the sweetness of the sauce. In doing so, you will discover that Atlanta is not just a stopover for Southern food—it is a destination for some of the finest barbecue in the United States.
