7 Georgia Vegan BBQ Plates That Shock The South
Forget everything you thought you knew about Southern barbecue. In Georgia, where smoke-filled pits and slow-cooked meats are a way of life, a new wave of plant-based BBQ is rewriting the rules.
From smoky jackfruit that pulls apart like pork to seitan “ribz” slathered in tangy sauce, these kitchens are proving that you don’t need meat to capture the soul of Southern comfort food.
After months of crisscrossing the Peach State, I’ve discovered vegan plates so bold and satisfying they could make even the most loyal brisket lover pause mid-bite.
1. Soul Vegetarian’s Kalebone Wonders
Walking into Soul Vegetarian in Atlanta feels like coming home. Their signature BBQ kalebone—a wheat gluten-based protein that’s been perfected over decades—changed my entire perspective on vegan BBQ possibilities. The texture is remarkably meaty, pulling apart just like traditional ribs, while the house-made sauce strikes that perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky.
What makes this plate extraordinary is how they complement it with collard greens and mac and cheese that taste like they came straight from grandma’s kitchen. The restaurant’s 40+ years of plant-based expertise shines through in every bite. Even my BBQ-obsessed uncle from Texas couldn’t believe it wasn’t the real deal!
2. Bar Vegan’s Smokehouse Platter
Pinky Cole’s Bar Vegan isn’t just about drinks—their Smokehouse Platter delivers an Instagram-worthy feast that had me snapping photos for a solid minute before diving in. The centerpiece is jackfruit pulled ‘pork’ that’s been smoked for hours, creating an uncanny resemblance to the real thing. Served alongside cornbread, potato salad, and baked beans, this plate honors traditional BBQ presentations while being 100% plant-based.
The sauce deserves special mention—a family recipe with just enough heat to make your lips tingle without overwhelming the other flavors. Located in Atlanta’s Ponce City Market, the energetic atmosphere and creative cocktail pairings make this a must-visit for anyone exploring Georgia’s vegan food scene.
3. The Local Green’s Pulled Jack Attack
Hidden in Atlanta’s Westview neighborhood, The Local Green’s Pulled Jack Attack sandwich blew me away on my first bite. Owner Zak Wallace has mastered the art of transforming young jackfruit into tender, pull-apart BBQ that soaks up his secret sauce recipe like nothing I’ve ever tasted.
Served on a toasted brioche bun with creamy slaw and pickles, it’s a perfect harmony of textures. What makes this spot special is their commitment to serving plant-based food in a neighborhood that was previously a food desert. The restaurant’s hip-hop themed menu items and bright, welcoming atmosphere create an experience that feels authentically Atlanta. Their sweet potato fries with house aioli make the perfect companion to this stellar sandwich.
4. Slutty Vegan’s BBQ Bacon Burger
Slutty Vegan has become Atlanta’s most famous plant-based eatery, with lines often wrapping around the block. Their BBQ Bacon Burger—officially named the ‘Fussy Hussy’—combines an Impossible patty with vegan bacon and their smoky house BBQ sauce for a messy, indulgent experience. Owner Pinky Cole has created more than just great food; she’s created a cultural phenomenon.
The staff shouts ‘We’ve got a virgin!’ whenever a first-timer enters, and the restaurant’s provocative branding makes eating vegetables feel rebellious and fun. What separates this burger from others is how the components work together—the slight char on the patty, the crispness of the bacon, and the way the sauce soaks perfectly into the toasted bun. It’s BBQ reinvented for a new generation of Southerners.
5. Grass VBQ Joint’s Smoked Plant Tips
Chef Terry Sargent of Grass VBQ Joint in Stone Mountain has created something truly special with his Smoked Plant Tips. After 15 years as a traditional pitmaster, Sargent went vegan and brought all his BBQ knowledge to plant-based cooking—and it shows.
The soy curls he uses are transformed through a 24-hour marinade and slow smoking process that creates bark (that crusty exterior) just like traditional burnt ends. The house-made sauce, with notes of bourbon and Georgia peaches, perfectly complements the smoky flavor. What makes this plate unforgettable is the authenticity—from the red checkered paper to the slice of white bread served underneath to soak up the sauce.
Paired with collard greens and mac & cheese, it’s a masterclass in vegan Southern cooking that honors tradition while creating something entirely new.
6. Planted Soul’s BBQ Jackfruit Platter
In the heart of Atlanta, Planted Soul presents a BBQ Jackfruit Platter that has locals talking. The jackfruit, marinated in a smoky sauce, mimics the texture of pulled pork flawlessly.
On the side, enjoy a crisp slaw that adds freshness, alongside a slice of cornbread—golden and slightly sweet.
To complete the meal, traditional collard greens bring a taste of Southern comfort. Each element harmonizes to create a BBQ experience that surprises and delights, challenging preconceived notions of vegan cuisine. This platter is not just a meal; it’s a conversation starter.
7. Hippie Hibachi (Athens, GA)
Hippie Hibachi in Athens, Georgia, offers a delightful surprise for BBQ enthusiasts. With an array of grilled vegetables and smoky tofu, this plate captures the essence of traditional BBQ without the meat.
The vibrant colors of the vegetables, combined with a tangy vegan sauce, create a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Nestled in the lively city of Athens, this dish is a testament to the creativity and diversity of vegan cuisine. Perfect for those looking to explore new flavors, Hippie Hibachi’s vegan BBQ plate is a must-try for anyone visiting the area.