If you think passion runs high in Atlanta for SEC football, try arguing the best BBQ spot. No doubt this city is full of incredible BBQ and everyone has a favorite. While old standbys continue to hold their own, there are plenty of new spots opening on every side of town. BBQ is more than on fire right now, it's smoking.
With so many options, how do you even approach the daunting task of choosing where to go? Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, wings- Atlanta has it all. But when I think meat, my mind immediately jumps to what's on the plate next to it. Here then, is my list of 6 places where the meat gets you there, but the sides bring you back.
MAC AND CHEESE at COMMUNITY Q BBQ
Any spot that brags about being a "macaroni and cheese restaurant that happens to also do BBQ" clearly knows where their bread is buttered. The mac and cheese at this Clairmont Rd. staple is creamy, cheesy, dreamy and delicious.
FRITO PIE at FOX BROS. BBQ
For a minute it felt like everyone was talking about that amazing hole-in-the-wall spot with the amazing meat, ribs and "Frito Pie." All is still alive at Fox Bros. and we just wanted to remind you that if you haven't had your fill of chili in a Fritos bag recently, you are missing out on one of Atlanta's all time great dishes.
COLLARED GREENS at TWIN SMOKERS
Downtown Atlanta has the newest BBQ masterpiece in Legacy Property's recently opened Twin Smokers. These folks get everything right, but their brisket and collards are especially divine. Collards should have a kick, give you a warm feeling and have the perfect touch of bacon. Win, win, win!
KOREAN SWEET POTATOES at HEIRLOOM BBQ
Is there any other BBQ in Atlanta that has been herladed as much as Heirloom BBQ? This husband and wife team created a perfect mix of Korean and Southern cultures, and the uniqueness of this unbelievably tasty sweet potato dish is what makes the long lines and dumpy digs all worth it.
BAKED BEANS at GREATER GOOD BBQ
My little BBQ spot on Roswell Road does ribs like you dream about, but it's the comfort and care they show their baked beans that makes everything fall into place.This classic BBQ side dish is a family recipe handed down. Creamy and spicy with pieces of pork, these beans make everything right in the world...and on your plate.
REDNECK LASAGNA at SAM's BBQ-1
Traveling OTP feels so right when you're headed to the BBQ haven known as Sam's #1. When you throw Brunswick stew on top of amazing mac and cheese, you haven't lost your mind; you've created a dish for the BBQ side dish hall of fame.