The official start of summer is right around the corner, which means barbecue season is upon us! The Southside is home to some of the best BBQ spots in the Atlanta area, and we've created the ultimate guide to satisfying all your smokey, saucy cravings right here in the District. Read on to discover your newest favorite BBQ joint!
Barbecue Kitchen - College Park
Smoked ribs, southern fried chicken, BBQ sandwiches, and seafood platters galore - Barbecue Kitchen has something to satisfy every craving! This no-frills meat-and-three style restaurant has proudly served Southern BBQ staples in College Park for over 30 years. Take-out and catering options are also available. Not to mention, a common consensus is that their staff makes you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
Hattie Marie’s Texas Style BBQ & Cajun Kitchen - College Park
Let’s kick it up a notch and add a Texas flare to our beloved Atlanta BBQ, shall we? Hattie Marie’s roots are in Southeast Texas, and these flavors certainly shine through in their menu. There is something for everyone here, including vegetarian-friendly side items such as their creamy mac-and-cheese and slow-cooked collard greens. Choosing from their selection of pork and beef ribs, brisket, gumbo, and crab legs is no easy task, but the good news is that you can't go wrong! Make sure you come hungry because the portions are quite generous!
Tom, Dick and Hank - College Park
At Tom, Dick, and Hank, your experience will be nothing shy of amazing. This spot embodies your distant memories of family barbecues in the backyard by serving all your favorites - smoked plates marinated and seasoned to perfection, grilled or fried seafood platters, signature wings, and to-die-for sandwiches. Can’t forget their unique BBQ entrees in the form of tacos, quesadillas, and even salads. Feeling bold? Chase your meal down with a signature cocktail.
Pit Boss BBQ & Spirits - Hapeville
The word is out and Pit Boss BBQ is a destination for authentic pit-style smoked goodness. Locals and visitors alike are greeted by the aroma of slow-smoked meats as they join the line outside during peak times. It's worth the wait for the incredible smoked wings and rib tips smothered in their delectable sauces. The menu caters to just about every BBQ craving, including vegetarians with their smoked portabella veggie burger. Be sure to make a pit-stop (pun intended) next time you're in the District!
Redeye Southern Kitchen - Hapeville
Located inside the Hilton Atlanta Airport Hotel, Red Eye Southern Kitchen is the District’s newest BBQ sensation. Smoked long, low, and slow over hickory and oak wood, the offerings at Red Eye Southern Kitchen will encourage you to slow down a bit and really savor all the flavors of their smoked meat and mouth-watering house-made sauce. Paired with their handcrafted cocktails, it’s down-home BBQ with a touch of sophistication.
This is it! BBQ & Seafood - Union City
This restaurant REALLY is it and has been since 1983! This Is It! serves an unrivaled mix of BBQ, seafood, and soul food in heaping portions made up of only the freshest ingredients. Keep This Is It! in mind when prepping for your next neighborhood party or gathering and take advantage of their event catering options. Show this spot some love, and don’t leave without a slice of cake or pie!
