A barbecue restaurant has taken over the space formerly occupied by Doggy Dogg in downtown Decatur.

BBQ Cafe opened in mid-August at 310 East Howard Ave., Decaturish first reported.

Owners Lewis Johnson, John Peeples and Lloyd Solomon’s goal is “not to create an Atlanta-style barbecue; but rather, to give these simple, consistent recipes with deep Magnolia State roots a Peach State address,” according to the restaurant’s website.

The longtime friends and Mississippi natives offer a menu of barbecue staples including pulled pork, brisket and ribs; sides including potato salad, baked beans and corn salad; and bread pudding and banana pudding for dessert. Meat is prepared slowly over open smoke.

BBQ Cafe is open from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday.

Gourmet hot dog spot Doggy Dogg closed in February.

310 East Howard Ave., Decatur. 678-235-3476, bbq.cafe/

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Ceudy Gutierrez reads a book to her 2-year-old son, Matias, at their home in Buford, GA, on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. Ceudy Gutierrez is struggling to make ends meet for herself and her three young kids following her husband’s ICE arrest earlier this fall. (Miguel Martinez/ AJC)

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