Did you know that American barbecue dates all the way back to the days when the Spanish explored America?
It doesn't get much more American than barbecue, and if you're planning your next trip to Atlanta, Georgia, you won't want to miss out on tasting a ton of mouthwatering local q. The array of variations and styles in American BBQ is about as diverse as America itself, so you'll want to make sure to try at least a few different places to get a good taste.
Whether you're planning your next Southern road trip or heading to a corporate event in Atlanta, read on to get the ultimate BBQ travel guide to Atlanta from a local's perspective.
1. Fat Matt’s Rib Shack: A Local's Favorite
If you want que BBQ ribs that are so tender they fall off the bone, take a trip to Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Located in Morningside, Fat Matt’s has been a local favorite since its opening in 1990.
Although during COVID-19 it’s not super exciting when the pandemic is over, you can look forward to enjoying not only out of this world robs, but blues performers as well. If you want to check out the que bbq scene in Georgia, you won’t want to miss this staple.
2. Righteous Que: The Best Kept Secret
Only about 20 minutes from the Georgia Aquarium, Marietta, GA is home to Six Flags White Water, the Gone with the Wind Museum, and some of the best local q that you will ever try. The barbecue at Righteous Que is well worth the drive from Atlanta and takes the cake as best Marietta BBQ.
Righteous Que is the perfect takeout choice during COVID-19 if you don't feel like eating out. The menu is complete with all the comfort food staples like macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and desserts to die for. Their infamous Oatmeal Cream Pies won awards at the Taste of Atlanta for a reason.
Righteous Que conveniently offers curbside pickup and online orders, so it makes for a quick and easy dinner stop on your southern road trip adventures.
They also provide affordable and mouthwatering catering options. If you're having an outdoor event, and want to eliminate the hassle with COVID, let someone do the cooking for you. Whether you're holding a wedding, a corporate event, or a family part, contact Righteous Que before you plan your next event.
3. Anna’s BBQ: Traditional Smoked BBQ
Back in 2013, Lakesia Phelps took a risk and decided she was going to become a pitmaster with absolutely no professional experience. Thank goodness Anna took on the challenge because her local que is now a crowd favorite, with hours-long wait times.
Anna's BBQ, voted best BBQ in Atlanta in 2019, is well worth the wait. Some of the recommended dishes are the turkey ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. A bonus to eating at Anna's BBQ is they have a great front patio with an abundance of outdoor seating, so it’s the perfect place to add to your pandemic Atlanta travel guide.
4. Fox Bros Bar-B-Q: Local Q Hot Spot
Twin brothers, Jonathan and Justin Fox, originally from Texas, are responsible for bringing slow-smoked brisket to the Atlanta que scene. After moving to Atlanta, they became homesick for Texas barbecue and started cooking. Since then, they have opened their own restaurant that's been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, as well as numerous popular food magazines.
A couple of menu favorites from this Atlanta staple is smoked brisket (of course), hickory-smoked chicken wings, and the chopped brisket-laced Texas fries.
Don't show up in a hurry, because the line is always out the door. But it's definitely worth the wait.
5. B's Cracklin Barbecue: A New Atlanta Staple
Pitmaster, Bryan Furman, first became popular at his original restaurant location in Savannah, but after it burned down, he relocated to Atlanta. B's Cracklin Barbecue is now a staple in Atlanta, especially if you're partial to mustard- and vinegar-based barbecue sauces.
This local q spot is best known for its whole-hog style barbecue. B's Cracklin Barbecue's cornbread hoecakes are also something to write home about. They're cooked on a griddle instead of in the oven, making them stand out in comparison to other cornbread muffins.
6. Bullpen Rib House: Beer and Barbecue
If you're looking for a night of good beer and barbecue, Bullpen Rib House is a solid choice.Not only do they have delicious que, but they also make delicious hot dogs and specialty hamburgers that are a menu favorite.
For those who'd like to have a drink with their meal, Bullpen Rib House also serves up local beer, domestic beer, and even moonshine, if you're trying to embrace Southern culture and food fully.
7. D.B.A. Barbecue: The Ultimate BBQ Brunch
D.B.A. Barbecue is unique in that it offers the staple Southern comfort foods, but their menu has a Creole influence. Made from the freshest ingredients, they smoke and cure all their meats in house daily.
If you're looking for the best brunch in Atlanta, don't miss out on another opportunity to try some delicious barbecue. D.B.A. Barbecue offers weekend brunch with affordable bottomless mimosas.
Dig In
Skip the typical tourist destinations, and go to the best local q hot spots that will give you an authentic taste of the region. From Texas BBQ to the North Carolina vinegar- and mustard-based style, you can find it all in Atlanta and its surrounding areas.
Are you looking for more great restaurant recommendations? Check out our site's restaurant reviews from across the globe.
