5 Top Hole-in-the-Wall BBQ Joints in Atlanta
These 5 Top Hole-in-the-Wall BBQ Joints in Atlanta is in a BBQ lover’s paradise, filled with hidden gems and hole-in-the-wall joints that serve up tantalizing smoked meats and mouthwatering flavors. The five top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta that we’ve explored in this article—Fat Matt’s Rib Shack, Community Q BBQ, Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, and Bone Lick BBQ—have showcased the diverse range of BBQ offerings in the city. From Fat Matt’s famous ribs to Bone Lick BBQ’s unforgettable pork belly burnt ends, each restaurant has carved out its own unique place in Atlanta’s BBQ scene. Now you know why they are one of the best restaurants in Atlanta for satisfying your BBQ cravings. This list is not in any special order.
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1. Fat Matt’s Rib Shack
Address: 1811 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30324
Phone Number: (404) 607-1622
Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is one of the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta. It has been serving up delicious BBQ since 1990, making it a staple in the local culinary scene. This family owned and operated establishment has garnered a reputation for its mouthwatering ribs and down-home atmosphere. With an overall rating of 4.4/5, Fat Matt’s Rib Shack has become a go-to spot for BBQ enthusiasts in Atlanta.
One of the standout items at Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is their signature ribs. These succulent ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, offering a tender and smoky flavor that keeps customers coming back for more. The meat is seasoned with a special blend of spices and coated with their homemade BBQ sauce, creating a delightful balance of tanginess and sweetness. The ribs are cooked low and slow, resulting in a fall-off-the-bone texture that BBQ lovers crave.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Baby Back Ribs”: Tender and meaty baby back ribs, slow-cooked to perfection and glazed with Fat Matt’s special BBQ sauce. Served with a choice of two sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or macaroni and cheese.
2. “Pulled Pork Sandwich”: Slow-smoked, hand-pulled pork piled high on a soft bun and topped with Fat Matt’s BBQ sauce. Served with a side of coleslaw and pickles.
3. “Smoked Chicken Platter”: Juicy smoked chicken, seasoned with Fat Matt’s special rub and smothered in their signature BBQ sauce. Served with two sides, such as collard greens, potato salad, or cornbread.
Customer Reviews:
– “Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is hands down the best BBQ joint in Atlanta. The ribs are incredibly flavorful, and the sauce is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The laid-back atmosphere and live blues music make it a unique and enjoyable experience. Highly recommended!”
– “I’ve been coming to Fat Matt’s for years, and it never disappoints. The pulled pork sandwich is my go-to, and it’s always tender and flavorful. The sides are fantastic too, especially the baked beans. If you’re in Atlanta and craving BBQ, this is the place to be!”
– “Fat Matt’s is a hidden gem! The ribs are phenomenal, and the portion sizes are generous. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making you feel like family. Don’t miss out on their peach cobbler for dessert—it’s the perfect ending to a fantastic meal.”
Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is a family owned and operated BBQ joint in Atlanta that has been serving up mouthwatering ribs and other delicious BBQ dishes since 1990. With a 4.4/5 overall rating, it has gained a loyal following of BBQ enthusiasts. The signature ribs, slow-cooked and slathered in their special BBQ sauce, are a must-try. The restaurant offers a laid-back atmosphere with live blues music, providing a unique dining experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Atlanta, Fat Matt’s Rib Shack is the perfect place to satisfy your BBQ cravings and enjoy some finger-licking good food. They rank in the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta for good reasons.
2. Community Q BBQ
Address: 1361 Clairmont Rd, Decatur, GA 30033
Phone Number: (404) 633-2080
Community Q BBQ is one of the popular hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta. It’s a renowned hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint located in Decatur, a suburb of Atlanta. This family owned and operated establishment has been serving up delicious BBQ since 2008, making it a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. With an overall rating of 4.5/5, Community Q BBQ has established itself as one of the top destinations for BBQ enthusiasts in the area.
One of the standout offerings at Community Q BBQ is their signature slow-smoked pulled pork. The pork is cooked low and slow, resulting in tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. It is seasoned with a special blend of spices, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. The pulled pork is served with their house-made BBQ sauce, which strikes a perfect balance between tangy and savory. This signature dish showcases the expertise and dedication to quality that Community Q BBQ is known for.
Main Menu Items:
1. “St. Louis Ribs”: Juicy and meaty St. Louis-style ribs, rubbed with a blend of spices and slow-smoked to perfection. Served with a choice of two sides, such as collard greens, mac and cheese, or cornbread.
2. “Brisket Plate”: Tender and flavorful sliced brisket, smoked to perfection and served with a side of Community Q BBQ sauce. Comes with a choice of two sides, such as baked beans, potato salad, or coleslaw.
3. “Pulled Chicken Sandwich”: Succulent pulled chicken, slow-smoked and piled high on a bun. Served with a side of pickles and a choice of one side, such as Brunswick stew, green beans, or fried okra.
Customer Reviews:
– “Community Q BBQ is hands down the best BBQ joint in Decatur. The pulled pork is unbelievably tender, and the flavors are spot on. The sides are fantastic too, especially the mac and cheese. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make it a truly enjoyable dining experience.”
– “I’ve been a fan of Community Q BBQ for years, and they consistently deliver mouthwatering BBQ. The St. Louis ribs are exceptional—juicy, smoky, and full of flavor. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. It’s a must-visit for any BBQ lover in the Atlanta area.”
– “Community Q BBQ is a hidden gem that you don’t want to miss. The brisket is the real deal—perfectly smoked and incredibly tender. The sauce is fantastic, and the sides are top-notch. Whether you dine in or take it to-go, you won’t be disappointed.”
Community Q BBQ, a family owned and operated BBQ joint in Decatur, Atlanta, has been serving up exceptional BBQ since 2008. With a rating of 4.5/5, it has earned a reputation for its delicious smoked meats and flavorful sauces. The signature slow-smoked pulled pork is a standout dish, showcasing the dedication to quality and expertise of the establishment. The menu offers a variety of delectable options, from St. Louis ribs to mouthwatering brisket. With friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere, Community Q BBQ provides an enjoyable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a satisfying meal, Community Q BBQ is a must-visit destination. They stand out among the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta.
3. Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt
Address: 264 Memorial Dr. SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone Number: (404) 222-0206
Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt is another of the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta. Known for its down-home Southern flavors and relaxed atmosphere, Daddy D’z has been serving delicious BBQ since it opened its doors. This family owned and operated establishment has become a local favorite since its establishment, offering an overall rating of 4/5.
The signature food at Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt is their mouthwatering ribs. These slow-cooked ribs are a labor of love, seasoned with a special dry rub and smoked to perfection. The meat is tender, falling off the bone, and bursting with smoky flavor. Daddy D’z takes pride in their house-made BBQ sauce, which adds a tangy and savory punch to the ribs. This signature dish embodies the essence of Southern-style BBQ that keeps customers coming back for more.
Main Menu Items:
1. “The Rib Plate”: A generous portion of slow-smoked ribs, coated with Daddy D’z special dry rub and smothered in their house-made BBQ sauce. Served with a choice of two sides, such as collard greens, baked beans, or macaroni and cheese.
2. “Pulled Pork Sandwich”: Tender pulled pork, slow-smoked and piled high on a soft bun. Served with a side of coleslaw and pickles, this sandwich is a classic BBQ delight.
3. “Southern Fried Catfish”: Crispy fried catfish fillets, seasoned to perfection and served with hush puppies and a choice of two sides, such as sweet potato fries, fried okra, or green beans.
Customer Reviews:
– “Daddy D’z is a hidden gem in Atlanta. The ribs are to die for—tender, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. The BBQ sauce is fantastic, and the sides are excellent. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit for any BBQ lover in the city.”
– “I’ve been a fan of Daddy D’z for years, and it never disappoints. The pulled pork sandwich is my go-to, and it’s always packed with flavor. The catfish is also a standout—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. If you’re looking for authentic Southern BBQ, this is the place to go!”
– “Daddy D’z is the epitome of hole-in-the-wall goodness. The ribs are simply amazing—smoky, tender, and full of flavor. The sauce is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The staff is friendly, and the prices are reasonable. Don’t miss out on this Atlanta gem!”
Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt, a family owned and operated hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint in Atlanta, has been delighting customers with its delicious BBQ offerings for years. With an overall rating of 4/5, Daddy D’z has earned a reputation for its mouthwatering ribs, tender pulled pork, and flavorful Southern fried catfish. The signature ribs, slow-cooked and slathered in their house-made BBQ sauce, are a must-try. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming dining experience for patrons. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or simply craving some down-home Southern flavors, Daddy D’z BBQ Joynt is a place you don’t want to miss when exploring Atlanta’s culinary scene. They deserve to be ranked among the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta.
4. Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q
Address: 1238 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
Phone Number: (404) 577-4030
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q is one of the renowned hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta. Since its establishment, this family owned and operated restaurant has gained a strong following and an overall rating of 4.6/5. Situated in the city’s Candler Park neighborhood, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q has become a go-to destination for authentic Texas-style BBQ in Atlanta.
The signature food at Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q is their mouthwatering beef brisket. Slow-smoked to perfection, the beef brisket is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. It is seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked low and slow to achieve a beautiful smoke ring and a rich bark on the outside. The result is melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness that keeps patrons coming back for more.
Main Menu Items:
1. “Beef Brisket Plate”: Slices of tender, smoked beef brisket served with a choice of two sides, such as mac and cheese, collard greens, or jalapeño cornbread. The smoky flavor and the perfect blend of seasoning make this a standout dish.
2. “Pork Ribs”: St. Louis-style pork ribs, dry-rubbed and slow-smoked until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Served with a side of tangy BBQ sauce and a choice of two sides, such as coleslaw, baked beans, or fried okra.
3. “The Tomminator Sandwich”: A hearty sandwich stacked with pulled pork, sliced beef brisket, jalapeño-cheddar sausage, and topped with slaw and pickles. Served with a side of seasoned fries, this sandwich is a carnivorous delight.
Customer Reviews:
– “Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q is hands down the best BBQ joint in Atlanta. The beef brisket is divine—it’s tender, flavorful, and perfectly smoked. The ribs are also fantastic, and the sides are outstanding. The service is top-notch, and the overall dining experience is fantastic.”
– “If you’re in Atlanta and craving BBQ, you have to visit Fox Bros. The flavors are incredible, and the meat is always cooked to perfection. The Tomminator sandwich is a must-try—it’s a flavor explosion in every bite. The staff is friendly, and the portions are generous. You won’t be disappointed!”
– “Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q never fails to deliver exceptional BBQ. The pork ribs are succulent, and the dry rub adds a wonderful depth of flavor. The sides are incredible, especially the mac and cheese. The restaurant has a great atmosphere, and the staff makes you feel like part of the family.”
Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q, a family owned and operated hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint located in Atlanta’s Candler Park neighborhood, has become a popular destination for authentic Texas-style BBQ. With an overall rating of 4.6/5, this restaurant has garnered praise for its melt-in-your-mouth beef brisket, tender pork ribs, and flavorful dishes. The signature beef brisket, slow-smoked to perfection, is a standout item that embodies the essence of their delicious offerings. With a range of delectable main menu items, generous portions, and friendly service, Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q offers an exceptional BBQ experience for both locals and visitors. If you’re in Atlanta and craving top-notch BBQ, make sure to pay a visit to this beloved establishment. They have earned the rank of being one of the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta.
5. Bone Lick BBQ
Address: 1133 Huff Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
Phone Number: (404) 343-6574
Bone Lick BBQ is one of the popular hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious BBQ offerings, Bone Lick BBQ has been serving customers since its opening. While the exact year of establishment is unavailable, this family owned and operated restaurant has become a staple in the city’s Westside neighborhood. With an overall rating of 4.4/5, Bone Lick BBQ has earned a reputation for its mouthwatering BBQ and friendly service.
The signature food at Bone Lick BBQ is their famous smoked pork belly burnt ends. These succulent and flavorful bites of pork belly are slow-smoked to perfection. They are then caramelized with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze, creating a delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The pork belly burnt ends at Bone Lick BBQ are a must-try and a true testament to their mastery of the barbecue craft.
Main Menu Items:
1. “BBQ Platter”: A platter featuring a selection of their finest smoked meats, such as pulled pork, beef brisket, and smoked chicken. Served with a choice of two sides, such as collard greens, mac and cheese, or cornbread, this platter allows you to sample a variety of delicious BBQ offerings.
2. “The Pit Boss Burger”: A mouthwatering burger made with a blend of ground chuck and brisket. Topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and their signature BBQ sauce. Served with a side of seasoned fries, this burger is a carnivore’s delight.
3. “The Smoked Meatloaf”: A unique twist on a classic comfort food, Bone Lick BBQ’s smoked meatloaf is a must-try. Made with a blend of ground meats and seasoned with their special rub, the meatloaf is slow-smoked to perfection. Served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a side of collard greens, this dish offers a hearty and flavorful dining experience.
Customer Reviews:
– “Bone Lick BBQ is one of my favorite BBQ spots in Atlanta. The pork belly burnt ends are a revelation—tender, flavorful, and absolutely addictive. The BBQ platter is a great way to sample their delicious meats, and the sides are fantastic. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy. Highly recommended!”
– “I’ve been coming to Bone Lick BBQ for years, and it never disappoints. The Pit Boss Burger is one of the best burgers I’ve ever had—the combination of flavors is outstanding. The meatloaf is also incredible, and the portion sizes are generous. Whether you dine in or takeout, you’re in for a treat!”
– “Bone Lick BBQ is a hidden gem in Atlanta. The smoked meats are top-notch, and the flavors are spot on. The pork belly burnt ends are simply divine. The service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable. If you’re a BBQ lover, this place is a must-visit.”
Bone Lick BBQ, a family owned and operated hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint in Atlanta’s Westside neighborhood, has been delighting customers with its mouthwatering BBQ offerings. While the exact year of establishment is unknown, this beloved restaurant has earned an overall rating of 4.4/5. Their signature smoked pork belly burnt ends are a standout item, showcasing the culinary expertise and unique flavors that Bone Lick BBQ brings to the table. They can definitely be counted among the top hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints in Atlanta.
Indulge in the smoky goodness, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich BBQ culture that Atlanta has to offer. From family-owned establishments with decades of history to newly established joints pushing culinary boundaries, you’ll find that Atlanta’s BBQ scene is as diverse as it is delicious. So, grab your appetite, venture off the beaten path, and discover the next great hole-in-the-wall BBQ joint waiting to satisfy your cravings in this vibrant city. This is why they are one of the best restaurants in Atlanta for satisfying your BBQ cravings.
However, it’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list. Atlanta is home to numerous other incredible hole-in-the-wall BBQ joints waiting to be discovered. Whether tucked away in different neighborhoods or off the beaten path, these hidden gems offer their own distinct flavors and experiences. So, venture out and explore beyond these five establishments, as there are still many more amazing hole-in-the-wall BBQ spots in Atlanta for you to uncover.
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