The Absolute Best BBQ in Athens [Updated 2024]

Having reviewed a whopping 12 barbecue joints in Athens, I am confident in providing you with an unmatched insight into the gastronomic wonders this vibrant city has to offer. Brace yourself as I take you on a finger-licking journey through some of the most heavenly smoked meats this side of Georgia.

Athens is known for its diverse culinary scene, and within it lies a hidden gem - the best BBQ joints that will leave you yearning for more. So, buckle up and get ready for a lip-smacking adventure as I reveal the top contenders vying for the title of the best BBQ in Athens GA.

Choo Choo Grill Express

Highlights
Great service
Delicious food
Amazing customer service
Must-visit place

Walking into Choo Choo Grill Express, I immediately felt like I was transported to barbecue heaven. The aroma of sizzling meat filled the air and the lively atmosphere made me excited to dive into some delicious food.

First and foremost, the customer service at Choo Choo Grill Express is truly exceptional. The friendly staff members greeted me with warm smiles as soon as I entered, and their attentiveness throughout my visit was top-notch. They made sure I had everything I needed and went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was a memorable one.

Now onto the star of the show – the food. Let me tell you, the barbecue at Choo Choo Grill Express is out of this world. Every bite was packed with flavor and the meat was cooked to perfection. From tender ribs to succulent brisket, their menu is a dream come true for any barbecue lover. The variety of sauces available allowed me to customize each bite to my liking, adding an extra layer of deliciousness to an already fantastic meal.

What sets Choo Choo Grill Express apart is their attention to detail and dedication to providing an amazing customer experience. The staff's enthusiastic demeanor and genuine love for their craft shines through in every aspect of the restaurant. As I devoured my meal, I couldn't help but appreciate the passion and effort that went into creating such delectable barbecue.

If you're looking for a place that combines great service, delicious food, and amazing customer service, Choo Choo Grill Express is a must-visit. Prepare to have your taste buds tantalized, your cravings satisfied, and your barbecue expectations exceeded. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Dawg Gone Good BBQ

Highlights
Hot and tasty sauce
Delicious collard greens
Amazing banana pudding
Friendly staff
Generous portions

From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of smoked meat. The air was thick with tantalizing promises of a carnivorous feast. I immediately felt at home.

The menu at Dawg Gone Good BBQ is a carnivore's dream come true. But what truly sets this place apart is their hot and tasty sauce. Oh boy, it's like a flavor explosion in your mouth! It's tangy, sweet, and spicy all at once, leaving you craving for more. The sauce perfectly complements their tender and succulent smoked meats.

One of the highlights of my meal was the delicious collard greens. Cooked to perfection and seasoned with just the right amount of smokiness, they were a refreshing and healthy side to balance out the meaty indulgence.

And let's not forget the amazing banana pudding! Creamy, luscious, and topped with a generous layer of whipped cream, it was the perfect ending to a delightful meal.

The staff at Dawg Gone Good BBQ were not only knowledgeable but also incredibly friendly. They were more than happy to answer any questions I had and even offered recommendations on their personal favorites. This personal touch made the dining experience all the more enjoyable.

Lastly, I must mention the generous portions at Dawg Gone Good BBQ. They definitely don't hold back when it comes to servings. I left with a satisfied belly and even had leftovers for the next day!

So, if you're in Athens and craving some mouthwatering BBQ, head over to Dawg Gone Good BBQ. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Butt Hutt BBQ

Highlights
Convenient location
Clean restaurant
Friendly and attentive staff
Tasty ribs
Reasonable prices

First of all, let me mention how convenient the location is. Situated in the heart of Athens, it's easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

Upon entering the restaurant, I was pleasantly surprised by how clean and well-maintained it was. A fresh aroma of smoked meat filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

The friendly and attentive staff immediately made me feel welcome. They were knowledgeable about the menu and generously helped me choose the best options for my taste.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the ribs. Oh boy, were they tasty! Each bite was a succulent explosion of smoky flavor. The meat was tender, and the barbecue sauce added just the right amount of tangy sweetness.

What impressed me even more was the reasonable prices. It's not often that you find such high-quality barbecue at such affordable prices.

In conclusion, Butt Hutt BBQ in Athens exceeded my expectations. From the convenient location and cleanliness to the friendly staff and mouthwatering ribs, it is undoubtedly one of the best bbq spots in the city. Make sure to check it out when you find yourself craving some delicious barbecue.

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Pulaski Heights Barbecue

Pulaski Heights Barbecue in Athens is a meat lover's paradise! The smoky aroma that pervades the air will have you salivating before you step through the door. The pulled pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender and the ribs are fall-off-the-bone good. Don't miss out on their tangy and finger-licking barbecue sauce. This place is a must-visit for any BBQ aficionado in Athens.

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Saucehouse BBQ

Being an expert in the art of barbecue, I decided to pay a visit to Saucehouse BBQ in Athens, hoping to find the perfect blend of flavor and tenderness. Boy, did they deliver! From the smoky brisket to the tangy pulled pork, every bite was a carnivorous delight. Can't wait to go back!

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White Tiger Athens

With just one bite at White Tiger Athens in Athens, my taste buds were taken on a wild ride. Their succulent grilled meats were a flavor explosion that left me with a smoky smile. This place has truly mastered the art of BBQ with their tender cuts and mouthwatering sauces. Don't miss out on this hidden gem when searching for the best BBQ in Athens.

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Tamez Barbecue

Boldly bringing their barbecue game to Athens, Tamez Barbecue is a hidden gem worth uncovering. Juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs and perfectly smoked brisket await you. With their proprietors embracing the true essence of Southern grilling, Tamez Barbecue easily claims its spot among the best in Athens.

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D92 Korean BBQ ATHENS

D92 Korean BBQ ATHENS in Athens delivered a tantalizing mix of flavors that tickled my taste buds with every bite. The tender meats melted in my mouth while the sizzling grill gave an exhilarating show. The attentive staff and vibrant atmosphere made this Korean BBQ joint a must-visit for any BBQ lover in Athens.

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Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q

I must say, Jim 'N Nick's is a hidden gem in Athens. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of smoky goodness enveloped me, setting the stage for a memorable BBQ experience. The tender and juicy pulled pork paired perfectly with their tangy sauces. Don't miss their BBQ nachos - a delightful twist on a classic. The attentive staff and cozy atmosphere make Jim 'N Nick's a delightful spot for any BBQ lover.

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Blind Pig Tavern

The Blind Pig Tavern in Athens is an absolute gem when it comes to BBQ. Their finger-lickin' ribs are slathered in a tantalizing sauce that will make your taste buds sing. The atmosphere is rustic yet cozy, perfect for a casual night out with friends. Don't miss this BBQ haven!

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Wing House Grill Athens

Wing House Grill Athens in Athens was a flavor fiesta! Their tantalizing barbecue offerings left me licking my fingers with delight. Juicy, smoky and packed with flavor, their ribs were a meat lover's dream come true. The lively atmosphere and attentive service sealed the deal. Wing House Grill Athens is a must-visit for any bbq connoisseur in Athens!

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Cook Out

I can confidently say that Cook Out is a top contender for the title of best bbq in Athens. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked meat. The menu offered a variety of mouthwatering options, including tender pulled pork and juicy ribs. The flavors were bold and bursting with smoky goodness. The sides were equally impressive, with their creamy mac and cheese and savory collard greens. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring a delightful dining experience. If you're in Athens and craving some finger-licking bbq, make sure to check out Cook Out. You won't be disappointed!