The Atlanta barbecue scene is smokin' these days. In our Spring Dining Guide, we explore how Atlanta has emerged as a serious barbecue city.

Find out where to chow down on not just barbecue, but also sides, sauces, pies, banana pudding and, of course, Brunswick stew, in our guide. And get ready for a road trip, because we’re following the smoke all around Georgia.

» Atlanta's reputation on the rise as 'a serious barbecue town'

Before you leave, though, we’d like to know which metro Atlanta barbecue joint is your favorite.

Four of them were on Business Insider's 2016 list of the best 50 barbecue restaurants in America.

And Thrillist named one of them the best 'BBQ joint' in America in March.

» The heart and soul of Atlanta barbecue

» Atlanta barbecue: Meet the pitmaster of Grand Champion BBQ

We stuck to traditional barbecue with this poll, but if you'd like to submit a write-in nominee, please email your pick to stephanie.toone@ajc.com.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Plenty of free activities for kids are part of the Peachtree Corners Festival on Saturday and Sunday, including bubble fun, sand art and face painting. (Courtesy of Peachtree Corners Festival)

Credit: Photo courtesy of Peachtree Corners Festival

Featured

Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com