Atlanta’s robust Black heritage and thriving culinary landscape have birthed some of the greatest barbecue joints across the United States. These places serve more than food: they narrate stories, help preserve tradition, and promote a sense of community. To find the tastiest barbecue steeped with soul and filled with some of the finest hospitality, follow the top 10 Black-owned BBQ spots in Atlanta.
Best Black-Owned BBQ Restaurants
1. Pit Boss BBQ
- Address: 800 Doug Davis Dr, Atlanta, GA 30354
Nestled near the Atlanta airport, Pit Boss BBQ is a hidden gem that locals and travelers swear by. This unassuming spot may look like a dive, but it’s the real deal when it comes to barbecue. Known for its smoked wings, tender brisket, and perfectly seasoned ribs, Pit Boss BBQ draws long lines of devoted customers every day. The rustic charm of the restaurant complements the traditional Southern barbecue flavors that are sure to make you drool over its authentic smoked meats.
2. Tom, Dick & Hank
- Address: 3807 Main St, Atlanta, GA 30337
Tom, Dick & Hank has “barbecue with a soul twist.” College Park’s favorite staple for comfort food aims at recreating the family reunion feeling and serving the same summer cookouts you used to enjoy with your loved ones. Crowd favorites include turkey ribs, smoky pulled pork, and their flavorful cornbread. Their mac and cheese is creamy perfection, making it a great side to complement the smoky goodness of their barbecue. Whether you’re dining in or taking it to go, this spot is all about soul and flavor.
3. Mustard Seed BBQ
- Address: 6000 Lynmark Way, #101-102, South Fulton, GA 30213
A veteran-owned gem located in Fairburn, a short drive from downtown Atlanta, Mustard Seed BBQ offers something a little different in this tomato-based-dominated city. You won’t find their mustard-based barbecue sauce anywhere else, but don’t be a mustard hater; they will convert you with their tangy, bold flavor that matches the smoked meats perfectly. The ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, and the brisket is a smoky masterpiece. It’s worth the visit to all barbecue fans.
4. Southern Fire Kitchen
- Address: 3375 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30329
Southern Fire Kitchen is known for combining traditional Southern barbecue techniques with a contemporary twist. Their menu features smoked wings, ribs, and pulled pork, but what sets them apart are their sides—creamy collard greens and cheesy jalapeño cornbread. The restaurant’s casual yet chic atmosphere makes it perfect for families and date nights alike. Pair your meal with one of their sweet tea lemonades, and you’re guaranteed to leave satisfied.
5. Hippin Hops Brewery & Oyster Bar
- Address: 1308 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
Though Hippin Hops Brewery is known to most as Georgia’s first Black-owned brewery, the barbecue deserves as much recognition as the brewery. Their New Orleans-inspired menu is a creative take on smoked meats paired with signature beers. Beer-infused barbecue brisket and smoked shrimp tacos are unique takes on barbecue flavors. The relaxed atmosphere and creativity of the menu make this one of Atlanta’s best barbecue destinations.
6. Busy Bee Cafe
- Address: 810 M.L.K. Jr Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Busy Bee Cafe has been a household name in Atlanta’s Black culinary culture since 1947. While the cafe is renowned for its fried chicken, its barbecue dishes are also phenomenal. The smoked pork chops and tender ribs are drenched in a rich tangy sauce that will leave you drooling for more. The sides—candied yams, collard greens, and cornbread—are the perfect complement to the hearty barbecue flavors. A trip to Busy Bee is a trip through Atlanta’s history, culture, and food.
7. Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar
- Address: 3721 Main St, College Park, GA 30337
Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar transports Atlanta to the rich food traditions of the Gullah Geechee people, bringing them alive through barbecue flavors. This “after church plate” promises smoked ribs to answer to collard greens and red rice. Their legendary corn muffins are a direct fruit of family recipes passed on from generation to generation. Whether as a restaurant or experience, Virgil’s beckons with its warm ambiance and incredible menu.
8. The Corner Grille
- Address: 3823 Main St, Atlanta, GA 30337
Located in the heart of College Park, The Corner Grille is a neighborhood favorite for barbecue lovers. Their menu features a mix of Creole and barbecue flavors, with highlights like Cajun barbecue shrimp and smoked chicken. Their plates are generous, the seasoning is bold, and the flavors are unforgettable. If you’re looking for a hearty meal packed with Southern charm, The Corner Grille is the place to be.
9. Paschal’s
- Address: 180 Northside Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Paschal’s has been Atlanta’s soul food fixture for over 60 years-dishing up love and history in every bite. Fried chicken may be a staple here, but the barbecue is due for its close-up: tender, smoky ribs and pulled pork sandwiches perfectly seasoned and dished out in generous portions. Nestled in historic Castleberry Hills, Paschal’s presents a vintage dining experience with a menu honoring Atlanta’s culinary history.
10. Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria
- Address: 581 Metropolitan Pkwy SW, Atlanta, GA 30310
It might be known more for its pizzas, but Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria brings barbecue into its menu for something unique. The barbecue chicken pizza is something of a work of art combining the slow-cooked chicken with sweet and tangy barbecue sauce along with melted cheese. Founded by three college roommates who had a passion for food and hip-hop, the restaurant brings fun and creativity to Atlanta’s scene of Black-owned barbecue. Never leave without having their cinnamon rolls, which, like their pizzas, are kind of legendary.
Final Words
These Black-owned barbecue restaurants stand as a testament to the vibrancy of culinary diversity in this lively city and the great cultural heritage from which it spawned. Each one is more than a great barbecue; it brings a sense of community and celebration of heritage together with that true taste of the South. As a local or a visitor, be sure to stop at any one of these 10 joints for their soulful flavors and unmatched hospitality.
So, grab your plate, tear into some ribs, and just savor all that is within Atlanta’s BBQ culture!
