Few things ignite such fierce loyalty—and quiet rivalry—as searching for the best BBQ in Decatur, AL. Decatur has a rhythm to its smoke; the kind that drifts down neighborhood streets and pulls you in with pepper, oak, and tradition woven together. On my last visit, I ended up in an all-night debate out behind a screen door, sampling ribs side by side while local legends argued over the merits of vinegar versus tomato-based sauce.
If you’re planning a taste-testing tour or a quick lunch that sticks with you, you’re in the right place. You’ll find a mix of iconic names, hole-in-the-wall gems, and classic family haunts where regulars never even look at the menu. This guide cuts through the noise, steering clear of hype, and dives into what actually makes Decatur’s barbecue scene distinct. Each spot on this list has something special, so loosen your belt and prepare to explore some serious local flavor.
Where to find the best bbq in Decatur, AL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Decatur, AL:
- Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que
- whitts barbecue
- Moe’s Original Bar B Que
- Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que
- LawLers Barbecue
- Smokey C’s BBQ and Wings
- Gibson Big Bob Bar-B-Q
- Bar-B-Q Smokehouse
- Perrins Barbecue
- Smokey C’s BBQ & Wings
1. Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que
Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que feels like the aroma fills half of Decatur the moment you pull up. My first bite here started with their legendary smoked chicken and didn’t end until there was nothing but bones.
The secret weapon? Their white barbecue sauce—creamy, tangy, and addictive. It hits just right against smoky, tender chicken and ribs. The pitmasters know their craft.
Order the pulled chicken plate and don’t skip the potato salad. Everything is slow-smoked over hickory, bringing out that classic Alabama flavor.
Fast service, generous portions, and a lively crowd keep the energy high. If you want to try where barbecue history began in Decatur, this is it.
2. whitts barbecue
Whitts Barbecue keeps it refreshingly simple—just smoke, sauce, and good folks behind the counter. I once rolled through for lunch and drove away, thinking about their pulled pork sandwich for the rest of the week.
What sets Whitts apart? Pure focus on classic barbecue—nothing fancy, just tender meat piled high and smoke done right. No fillers, no shortcuts.
Put the pulled pork on your must-try list, topped with their tangy house sauce. Pair it with classic sides like beans or coleslaw. For those careful with ingredients, Whitts offers gluten-free options, adding to their local charm.
Drive-thru or takeout makes it a quick fix for any barbecue craving, and you’ll find the taste lingers long after the meal.
3. Moe’s Original Bar B Que
Moe’s Original Bar B Que brings Southern BBQ to life right in the heart of downtown Decatur. Stepping inside during a bustling lunch, I found the aroma of slow-cooked meats mixing with blues music from the speakers—pure comfort.
What sets Moe’s apart is their focus on authentic, Bama-style barbecue and generous portions. The pulled pork is melt-in-your-mouth, with just the right amount of bark and smoke. Even the turkey gets the slow-cooked treatment, ending up juicy and flavorful every time.
I’d recommend the pulled pork platter, or if you’re feeling adventurous, try their smoked chicken wings. Pair them with classic Southern sides like collard greens or cornbread for the full experience.
Live music and easy-going vibes round out the experience, making Moe’s as memorable as the food itself.
4. Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que
Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que on Danville Road feels like a pilgrimage for anyone serious about BBQ in Decatur. I still remember sitting down with a plate of their iconic smoked chicken—the first bite was all it took to understand the hype.
Beyond the legendary white sauce, their ribs are smoked to near perfection—tender, smoky, and just the right amount of char. This spot balances tradition and comfort, making it a local favorite year after year.
Order a half-chicken plate for a taste of their original recipe. Add some classic sides—potato salad and coleslaw won’t lead you wrong. It’s hard not to appreciate the friendly buzz in the air and the BBQ masters at work.
If you want a meal that made Decatur famous, this is a must on any list.
5. LawLers Barbecue
LawLers Barbecue radiates a down-home warmth from the moment you walk in. I grabbed a meal here on a rainy evening and left with a new respect for patience—and a lingering taste of hickory smoke.
The real draw is their old-fashioned approach: slow-smoked meats, classic recipes, and a focus on tradition. LawLers makes barbecue that feels like it’s from the family table, not just a restaurant.
The pulled turkey is a must-try, especially topped with their signature sauces. Pair it with sweet slaw and baked beans for a complete Southern meal. Their drive-thru and takeout options make enjoying a slow-cooked meal convenient, even on busy days.
If you’re chasing authentic flavors and Southern hospitality, LawLers won’t disappoint.
6. Smokey C’s BBQ and Wings
Smokey C’s BBQ and Wings feels like the place locals mention with a knowing nod. My visit turned into a feast, thanks to their generous barbecue plates and that telltale aroma wafting out to the highway.
The highlight here is their house-smoked meats—tender, flavorful, and kissed with just the right amount of smoke. The menu covers classics, but every dish tastes thoughtfully prepared.
I’d go straight for the pulled chicken or sliced turkey plates, both smoked until they’re juicy and rich. Their wings are popular too, best enjoyed with classic sides like potato salad or green beans.
Lunch is quick, service is friendly, and you always feel like you’re in on a local secret.
7. Gibson Big Bob Bar-B-Q
Gibson Big Bob Bar-B-Q stands as a true Decatur icon. Each time I stop by, the aroma alone tells me I’m about to eat something special. The history of this spot seeps into everything they serve, making every meal feel like part of a local tradition.
The smoked chicken, paired with their signature white sauce, is always a crowd-pleaser. There’s a subtle balance in the smoke, letting the meat shine without being overpowered. The rib plates are another solid choice—tender, well-seasoned, and served classic Southern style.
I recommend the chicken or the pulled turkey plates, both showcasing what made this place famous. Add their homemade sides for a true taste of Decatur barbecue.
From the friendly staff to classic recipes, it’s easy to see why Gibson Big Bob is a local legend.
8. Bar-B-Q Smokehouse
Bar-B-Q Smokehouse is a hidden gem for those who appreciate unpretentious Southern barbecue. I stumbled in while searching for something new, and the soulful charm of this spot pulled me in immediately.
Here, smoky flavors and homestyle recipes set the tone. The space is low-key, and the focus is clearly on the food—no frills, just honest barbecue.
Try their pulled chicken plate or the classic turkey, both smoked with plenty of care. The sides, like their slow-cooked beans and tangy slaw, make the meal feel like Sunday lunch at a friend’s house.
Accessible and easy on the wallet, Bar-B-Q Smokehouse proves you don’t need a big name to serve seriously good barbecue.
9. Perrins Barbecue
Perrins Barbecue brings together a laid-back atmosphere and some of the best barbecue flavors in town. The first time I stopped in, it felt like joining a lively backyard gathering—friendly faces and smoky aromas all around.
The main attraction is their commitment to slow-cooked barbecue and honest portions. There’s nothing rushed about the plates here, just real smoke and satisfaction.
Order the pulled chicken or sliced turkey sandwich. Both showcase the tender, smoky style Perrins is known for, and the toasted bun only makes it better. The homemade sides, like creamy slaw and seasoned fries, round things out perfectly.
Perrins stands out for its welcoming vibe and straight-up good food—an ideal spot for any serious barbecue explorer.
10. Smokey C’s BBQ & Wings
(256) 353-7787Call
Smokey C’s BBQ & Wings is one of those places where your name matters and consistency is king. The first time I walked in, I was greeted like an old friend—and left with a full stomach and a new favorite spot.
The menu reads like a hit parade of Southern barbecue classics. Their smoked turkey and pulled chicken plates stand out for tenderness and smoky depth, while the wings—smoky hot or tangy BBQ—make tough choices inevitable.
Try a plate of ribs or the smoked boneless turkey, paired with homemade sides like potato salad or their memorable banana pudding. You won’t hurry through the meal or the friendly conversation.
Smokey C’s delivers both tradition and hospitality in every meal—a real Decatur BBQ staple.
More Things to Try in Decatur, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most popular BBQ dish in Decatur, AL?
Pulled chicken and smoked turkey are top picks at most local spots. Many come for the original Alabama white sauce, which pairs especially well with smoked chicken.
Are there BBQ restaurants in Decatur with gluten-free options?
Yes. Some, like Whitts Barbecue, offer gluten-free options. Always check with the staff about specific menu items if you have dietary needs.
Which Decatur BBQ joints are best for takeout?
Big Bob Gibson’s Bar-B-Que, LawLers Barbecue, and Smokey C’s BBQ & Wings are all popular for fast takeout and drive-thru service.
What makes Alabama BBQ unique?
Alabama BBQ is known for its hickory-smoked meats and the signature Alabama white sauce. It’s creamy, tangy, and sets the local style apart from other regions.
Is there good barbecue near downtown Decatur?
Absolutely. Moe’s Original Bar B Que sits right in the downtown area, bringing authentic Bama-style barbecue to the heart of Decatur.
Can I find family-friendly BBQ spots in Decatur?
Definitely. Many local BBQ restaurants offer highchairs, relaxed dining, and generous portions that work for all ages.