Unearth The Voyage
Georgia’s barbecue scene goes way beyond the famous spots you see on TV. Across the state, small-town joints and neighborhood favorites are quietly serving up some of the best smoked meats you’ll ever taste. Most locals guard these places like family secrets, but we’re here to share the love. Get ready to discover spots where the smoke is real, the flavor is bold, and the atmosphere is authentically Southern.
Jomax BBQ — Metter, GA
Tucked away in a small town most people drive past, Jomax BBQ has been quietly perfecting the art of ribs for years. The magic happens in their dark, sticky coating that clings to every rib like a sweet, smoky hug.
What really sets these ribs apart is the bark—that outer crust that’s satisfyingly chewy and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of texture that makes you slow down and savor every bite.
Locals know this place is special, but visitors often miss it entirely. The no-frills setting might not look fancy, but one taste of those ribs will make you a believer in small-town BBQ magic.
Fresh Air Barbecue — Jackson, GA
Since opening its doors nearly a century ago, Fresh Air Barbecue has been serving the same simple recipe: perfectly smoked chopped pork on soft white bread. Operating for almost 100 years means they’ve had plenty of time to get it right.
What’s remarkable here is how little they rely on sauce. The pork is so flavorful and tender from hours of slow smoking that many regulars order it completely plain. That’s confidence in your craft.
The rustic charm of the place feels like stepping back in time. Everything about Fresh Air celebrates the old-fashioned way of doing BBQ—no fancy tricks, just honest smoke and patience.
Old Brick Pit Barbeque — Chamblee, GA
Hidden in the Atlanta suburbs, Old Brick Pit takes smoking seriously—their pork spends over 12 hours in the smoker before it’s ready to serve. That kind of patience creates meat so tender it practically falls apart when you touch it.
They pair their slow-smoked pork with a tangy vinegar-based sauce that cuts through the richness perfectly. It’s a classic Carolina-style approach that balances smoke with brightness.
The vintage atmosphere adds to the experience, making you feel like you’ve discovered a secret that’s been hiding in plain sight. Chamblee might not be the first place you’d think to look for great BBQ, but this spot proves otherwise.
Community Q BBQ — Decatur, GA
Nestled in a Decatur neighborhood, Community Q has earned a loyal following among locals who know good BBQ when they taste it. Their oak-smoked brisket regularly gets mentioned in local food conversations, and for good reason.
Oak wood gives the meat a distinctive flavor that’s a bit different from the hickory most pitmasters use. The result is brisket with a rich, slightly sweet smoke profile that keeps people coming back.
Beyond the brisket, their homestyle sides deserve attention too. This is the kind of place where neighbors gather, and the friendly atmosphere makes every visit feel like coming home to good food and better company.
Wallace Barbecue — Austell, GA
Wallace Barbecue has been feeding hungry folks since 1966, and they’ve never tried to be anything they’re not. The setting is basic, the decor is minimal, but the portions are massive and the flavor is what matters.
Regulars will tell you straight up—don’t come here expecting fancy tablecloths or trendy sides. Come here because the smoky, tender meat speaks for itself, and you’ll leave with a full belly and a satisfied smile.
More than 50 years of serving the same community means Wallace knows exactly what people want. Sometimes the best BBQ comes from places that focus on doing one thing really well: making great-tasting smoked meat.
Wiley’s Championship BBQ — Savannah, GA
Walk into Wiley’s and you’ll immediately notice the competition trophies lining the walls—proof that this place knows how to win. While it’s slightly more well-known than others on this list, many visitors to Savannah still miss it.
Their ribs and smoked meats have earned championship status for good reason. Each bite shows the careful attention to temperature, timing, and seasoning that separates good BBQ from award-winning BBQ.
Locals insist the trophies aren’t just for show; the food genuinely lives up to the hype. If you want to taste what competition-level BBQ is all about without traveling to a festival, Wiley’s delivers that experience right in Savannah.
Southern Soul Barbeque — St. Simons Island, GA
Out where the salt air meets the smoke, Southern Soul Barbeque brings together two things that don’t usually mix: beach relaxation and serious pit-smoked meats. The colorful shack sits on St. Simons Island, making it a unique BBQ destination.
Many people say the contrast is what makes it memorable—you can enjoy tender pulled pork and smoky ribs while soaking in the laid-back coastal atmosphere. It’s BBQ with a side of ocean breeze.
The bold flavors and Southern charm shine through in every dish. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the coast, this spot proves that great BBQ can thrive anywhere, even on a beautiful Georgia island.
