Georgia’s Top 18 BBQ Restaurants Reviewed
Georgia is a state where barbecue isn’t just food; it’s a point of pride, a ritual, and a flavor-packed tradition.
From smoky ribs to pulled pork piled high, each restaurant offers its own signature take on slow-cooked perfection.
Locals know which spots deliver the richest sauces, the most tender meats, and sides that complete the experience.
The scent of hickory smoke drifts through neighborhoods, drawing friends and families to tables again and again.
In Georgia, barbecue is a serious craft, and these 18 restaurants have earned their reputations through dedication, technique, and bold, unforgettable flavors that keep diners coming back for more.
1. Heirloom Market BBQ — Atlanta, Georgia
Korean and Southern flavors collide in the most delicious way possible at this unique spot.
Heirloom Market BBQ serves up fusion dishes that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance, including their famous Korean-style smoked brisket and spicy pork belly tacos.
Located at 2243 Akers Mill Road SE, Atlanta, the restaurant occupies a bright, modern space with an industrial vibe featuring exposed brick and metal accents.
Fun fact: the owners met at culinary school and decided to combine their cultural backgrounds into one amazing menu.
Their smoked wings tossed in gochujang sauce are absolutely legendary among locals.
The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick lunch or relaxed dinner with friends who appreciate bold flavors.
2. DAS BBQ — Atlanta, Georgia
Award-winning pitmaster Todd Ginsberg brings serious skills to this Summerhill neighborhood gem.
His Texas-style BBQ focuses on simple, perfectly executed classics that let the smoke do the talking.
You’ll find DAS BBQ at 315 Memorial Drive SE, Atlanta, housed in a stripped-down space with concrete floors and wooden tables that keep things refreshingly no-frills.
The brisket here gets rubbed with salt and pepper, then smoked for up to 16 hours until it reaches melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Interestingly, DAS stands for “Definitely Amazing Stuff,” which pretty much sums up the menu.
Their housemade pickles and potato salad make excellent sidekicks to the main attractions.
Lines can get long during peak hours, but the wait is totally worth it for meat this good.
3. Rodney Scott’s Whole Hog BBQ — Atlanta, Georgia
James Beard Award winner Rodney Scott brought his legendary whole hog expertise from South Carolina to the Atlanta food scene.
Every pig gets cooked low and slow over hardwood coals for hours, resulting in incredibly tender pulled pork with crispy, flavorful skin mixed throughout.
The restaurant sits at 1186 Howell Mill Road NW, Atlanta, in a contemporary building with large windows that let you peek at the smoking action.
Scott’s signature vinegar-pepper sauce cuts through the richness perfectly without overpowering the smoky meat.
His banana pudding has achieved cult status among dessert lovers.
The open layout features communal seating and a welcoming vibe that makes everyone feel like family.
Pro tip: arrive hungry because portions are seriously generous here.
4. Twin Smokers BBQ — Atlanta, Georgia
Brothers Mike and Nick Minus turned their backyard hobby into one of Atlanta’s most beloved BBQ destinations. Their passion for perfectly smoked meats shines through in every bite, especially in their fall-off-the-bone St. Louis-style ribs.
Located at 1100 Howell Mill Road, Building C, Atlanta, the restaurant features a laid-back industrial design with picnic-style seating and vintage BBQ memorabilia decorating the walls. The burnt ends here are absolutely phenomenal, with a caramelized crust that locks in all the juicy flavors.
Fun fact: they actually use twin smokers (hence the name) to keep up with demand during busy weekends. Their mac and cheese gets topped with pulled pork for an extra indulgent side dish. The casual atmosphere welcomes families, friends, and serious BBQ enthusiasts alike.
5. D.B.A. Barbecue (Chastain) — Atlanta, Georgia
Neighborhood charm meets serious BBQ chops at this popular Chastain location. D.B.A. Barbecue specializes in North Carolina-style pulled pork that gets finished with a tangy vinegar sauce, though they offer plenty of other regional styles too.
You’ll find them at 4300 Powers Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, in a rustic brick building with a spacious patio perfect for warm Georgia evenings. The smoked chicken here doesn’t get enough credit but absolutely deserves a spot on your plate.
Interestingly, D.B.A. stands for “Doing Business As,” a playful nod to the owners’ business background before entering the restaurant world. Their Brunswick stew is loaded with pulled pork, veggies, and just the right amount of spice. Live music on weekends adds extra energy to the already lively atmosphere that keeps locals coming back regularly.
6. Owens & Hull — Mableton, Georgia
Authentic Texas BBQ comes to the Atlanta suburbs thanks to pitmasters who take their craft incredibly seriously.
Owens & Hull slow-smokes brisket, ribs, and sausage using traditional methods that result in a perfect smoke ring and tender texture throughout.
The restaurant is located at 5695 Mableton Parkway SW, Mableton, in a straightforward building that puts all the focus on what comes out of the smoker.
Their brisket gets a simple salt and pepper rub, allowing the natural beef flavor and smoke to shine through beautifully.
Fun fact: they sell out of their most popular items regularly, so arriving early is smart planning.
The homemade jalapeño cheese grits make an excellent side that combines Southern comfort with Tex-Mex flair.
Service is friendly and efficient, getting you fed quickly without feeling rushed.
7. Smokejack BBQ — Alpharetta, Georgia
Upscale BBQ meets craft cocktails at this polished Alpharetta establishment.
Smokejack BBQ elevates traditional barbecue with creative twists while still respecting the classics that made this cuisine famous across the South.
Located at 5 Milton Avenue, Alpharetta, the restaurant features a contemporary design with warm wood accents, Edison bulb lighting, and a welcoming bar area perfect for pre-dinner drinks.
Their smoked salmon Benedict has become a brunch favorite that proves BBQ techniques work brilliantly beyond traditional meats.
The regular smoked turkey breast stays juicy and flavorful, avoiding the dry texture that plagues lesser establishments.
Interestingly, the building was renovated from an old warehouse, maintaining some original architectural features.
Their bourbon selection is impressive, offering perfect pairings for rich, smoky flavors.
Weekend brunch draws big crowds for good reason.
8. Slope’s BBQ of Roswell — Roswell, Georgia
Family recipes passed down through generations form the foundation of this beloved local spot.
Slope’s BBQ serves up traditional Georgia-style barbecue with a focus on consistency and flavor that keeps customers returning week after week.
You’ll find them at 34 Holcomb Bridge Road, Roswell, in a modest building with a comfortable, no-nonsense interior featuring simple tables and BBQ-themed decorations.
Their pulled pork sandwich comes piled high with meat that’s been smoked to perfection and topped with tangy coleslaw for textural contrast.
Fun fact: the restaurant got its name from the original owner’s childhood nickname.
The Brunswick stew here follows an old family recipe that includes a secret blend of spices.
Portions are generous without being wasteful, and prices remain reasonable despite rising costs everywhere else.
Takeout is popular for family dinners and neighborhood gatherings.
9. Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q — Marietta, Georgia
Since 1991, this family-owned institution has been serving Marietta residents mouthwatering barbecue made fresh daily.
Williamson Bros. Bar-B-Q specializes in hickory-smoked meats that develop a beautiful mahogany color and incredible depth of flavor.
Located at 1425 Roswell Road, Marietta, the restaurant occupies a casual space with wooden booths and walls covered in local memorabilia and family photos.
Their ribs win fans with meat that pulls cleanly from the bone while maintaining a satisfying chew.
The sauce selection includes mild, hot, and mustard-based options, letting everyone customize their experience.
Interestingly, they smoke their turkeys whole, making Thanksgiving pre-orders a yearly tradition for many local families.
The sweet potato casserole borders on dessert territory with its brown sugar and pecan topping. Service stays friendly and attentive even during busy lunch rushes.
10. Old Hickory House — Tucker, Georgia
Operating since 1967, this Atlanta-area legend has been smoking meats longer than many customers have been alive.
Old Hickory House maintains traditional methods while serving up generous portions of hickory-smoked goodness that taste exactly like BBQ should.
The Tucker location sits at 2202 Northlake Pkwy, Tucker, in a building with rustic wood paneling and vintage BBQ equipment displayed as decoration.
Their Brunswick stew is thick, hearty, and loaded with pulled pork, creating a meal that warms you from the inside out.
Fun fact: the original location in Atlanta served celebrities and politicians for decades before expanding to multiple spots.
The chopped pork plate remains their bestseller, topped with their signature tangy sauce.
Peach cobbler for dessert is absolutely mandatory if you have any room left.
The old-school atmosphere feels genuinely authentic, not manufactured for Instagram.
11. Fresh Air Bar-B-Que — Jackson, Georgia
Georgia BBQ history lives and breathes at this iconic establishment that’s been serving travelers and locals since 1929.
Fresh Air Bar-B-Que occupies a special place in the state’s culinary heritage, maintaining recipes and techniques that have barely changed in nearly a century.
Located at 1164 GA-42, Jackson, the restaurant features a rambling building with multiple dining rooms decorated in vintage Southern style.
Their pork is pit-cooked over hickory wood, developing that classic smoky flavor that defines Georgia barbecue at its finest.
The sauce here leans toward the tomato-based side with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy notes.
Interestingly, the building has been expanded multiple times over the decades to accommodate growing crowds.
Their fried okra stays crispy outside and tender inside.
Stop here when traveling between Atlanta and Macon for an authentic taste of Georgia BBQ history.
12. Zeb’s Bar-B-Q — Danielsville, Georgia
Small-town charm meets big-time flavor at this northeastern Georgia treasure.
Zeb’s Bar-B-Q has been a community gathering spot for years, serving up honest, delicious barbecue without any pretense or fuss.
You’ll find Zeb’s at 11540 GA-29, Danielsville, in a modest building with a welcoming front porch and simple interior that feels like eating at a friend’s house.
Their chopped pork gets smoked until it practically melts on your tongue, then gets dressed with a vinegar-based sauce that adds brightness without overwhelming the meat.
Fun fact: locals often debate whether the BBQ or the homemade desserts deserve top billing.
The collard greens simmer with smoked meat for extra flavor depth.
Portions are sized for serious appetites, ensuring nobody leaves hungry.
The friendly staff treats regulars and first-timers with equal warmth, creating an atmosphere that makes you want to return soon.
13. Old Clinton Bar-B-Q — Gray, Georgia
Highway travelers have been pulling off I-75 for this legendary spot since 1960.
Old Clinton Bar-B-Q represents everything great about old-school Georgia barbecue, from the cooking methods to the friendly service that greets every customer.
Located at 4214 Gray Highway, Gray, the restaurant sits in a classic red building with a nostalgic exterior that looks exactly like a BBQ joint should.
Their sliced pork comes off the pit with a beautiful smoke ring and gets served with a tangy sauce that complements without overpowering.
The Brunswick stew here follows a traditional recipe that’s been perfected over six decades of cooking.
Interestingly, many families make this a regular stop on road trips, creating multi-generational memories around shared meals.
Their banana pudding is legendary for good reason, featuring real vanilla wafers and homemade custard.
Service is quick and efficient, perfect for travelers on tight schedules.
14. Fincher’s Bar-B-Q — Macon, Georgia
Macon’s BBQ scene wouldn’t be complete without this beloved institution that’s been serving the community since 1935.
Fincher’s Bar-B-Q maintains traditional pit-cooking methods that produce consistently excellent results meal after meal, year after year.
The restaurant is located at 3947 Houston Avenue, Macon, in a straightforward building with a comfortable, family-friendly interior featuring booth seating and casual decor.
Their chopped pork sandwich is a thing of beauty, piled high with tender meat and topped with crispy slaw for perfect textural contrast.
Fun fact: the original recipes have been guarded carefully and passed down through multiple generations of the Fincher family.
The hash and rice is a regional specialty that deserves more attention than it typically gets.
Their sweet tea is properly sweetened, the way Georgia tea should be. Lines during lunch can stretch long, proving that quality BBQ never goes out of style.
15. Sconyers Bar-B-Que — Augusta, Georgia
Buffet-style service means you can sample everything at this Augusta favorite that’s been feeding hungry crowds since 1956.
Sconyers Bar-B-Que offers an all-you-can-eat experience featuring their famous smoked meats alongside traditional Southern sides that complete the meal perfectly.
Located at 2250 Sconyers Way, Augusta, the restaurant occupies a large building with spacious dining rooms that accommodate big groups and family celebrations easily.
Their pork gets slow-cooked over hickory and oak, developing deep smoky flavors that satisfy even the pickiest BBQ enthusiasts.
The fried chicken here competes with the barbecue for attention, staying crispy outside while remaining juicy inside.
Interestingly, Masters Tournament week brings massive crowds of golf fans seeking authentic local flavor.
The buffet includes multiple sauce options, letting everyone find their perfect match.
Dessert options like peach cobbler provide a sweet Southern ending to your feast.
16. Clearview Barbecue — Columbus, Georgia
Columbus locals have trusted this family-run spot for delicious barbecue since the early days of the city’s BBQ scene.
Clearview Barbecue focuses on quality over quantity, smoking their meats fresh daily and serving them until they run out.
You’ll find them at 5801 Whitesville Road, Columbus, in a modest building with a welcoming interior that emphasizes comfort and good food over flashy decorations.
Their ribs achieve that perfect balance of tender meat with a slight tug when you bite, showing expert smoking technique.
The sauce selection ranges from sweet to spicy, accommodating different taste preferences within the same dining party.
Fun fact: their potato salad recipe has remained unchanged for decades, becoming a beloved tradition for regular customers.
The pulled pork stays moist and flavorful, never dry or stringy.
Friendly service and reasonable prices make this a go-to spot for weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings alike.
17. Sandfly BBQ — Savannah, Georgia
Coastal Georgia gets its BBQ fix at this popular Savannah spot that combines Low Country charm with serious smoking skills.
Sandfly BBQ serves up traditional barbecue with a coastal twist, incorporating local ingredients and flavors that reflect the surrounding region.
Located at 6819 Waters Avenue, Savannah, the restaurant features a casual, airy design with nautical touches that remind you of the nearby coast.
Their pulled pork gets topped with a vinegar-pepper sauce that cuts through the richness while adding a pleasant tang.
The smoked wings tossed in various sauces have become a local favorite, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself.
Interestingly, the name comes from the nearby Sandfly community, a historic area outside downtown Savannah.
Their mac and cheese gets baked until golden and bubbly on top.
The laid-back atmosphere welcomes families, tourists, and locals looking for quality BBQ without pretension or high prices.
18. Bigun’s Barbeque — Talking Rock, Georgia
North Georgia mountains provide the scenic backdrop for this hidden gem that locals treasure and visitors discover with delight.
Bigun’s Barbeque serves up hearty portions of smoked meats that taste even better after a day of mountain adventures.
The restaurant sits at 7480 GA-5, Talking Rock, in a rustic building that fits perfectly with the surrounding mountain landscape and small-town atmosphere.
Their brisket is smoked low and slow until it reaches that perfect tenderness, with a peppery bark that adds flavor and texture.
Fun fact: the name Bigun’s refers to the generous portion sizes that leave nobody hungry.
The cornbread comes out warm and slightly sweet, perfect for soaking up sauce and juices.
Their coleslaw stays crisp and refreshing, providing a cool contrast to the rich, smoky meats.
Mountain hospitality shines through in the friendly service that makes everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or first-time visitor stopping through.