Florence, Alabama takes barbecue as seriously as a summer thunderstorm. The aroma alone can pull you off the main road and straight into a parking lot, no questions asked. Whether you find yourself wandering downtown or tracing the Tennessee River’s path, the hunt for great BBQ here is anything but ordinary.
Years ago, I followed local whispers to a smoky little spot tucked behind a row of pecan trees. The tang of vinegar sauce, tender hickory-smoked meat, and a punchy slaw on the side challenged what I thought I knew about Southern barbecue. Florence’s pitmasters put pride into every plate, and each place on this list brings something different to the table. If you’re hungry for the real deal, keep reading—the best BBQ in Florence blends tradition, flavor, and a touch of local mischief.
Where to find the best bbq in Florence, AL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Florence, AL:
- Bunyan’s BBQ
- 306 Barbecue-Florence
- Flobama Restaurant
- Dick Howell Barbeque Pit
- Rick’s Barbecue
- Pop’s Barbeque
- Texas Roadhouse
- Bunyan’s Bar B Que
- The Brass Monkey
- Rick’s BBQ
1. Bunyan’s BBQ
Bunyan’s BBQ makes an impression before you even walk in. The scent of smoked meat rolls into the parking lot and doesn’t let go. Family owned since 1972, this place serves up comfort with a side of Southern charm.
What sets Bunyan’s apart? Their approach—simple, time-tested, and smoky. The portions are generous, and the rhythm of steady regulars is proof you’re in the right spot. Pulled pork is must-try material; it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender with just enough bark to make you want seconds. If you like a little tang, the legendary vinegar slaw on a sandwich is a local rite of passage.
Order at the counter, grab a seat, and savor the old-school barbecue experience in every bite.
2. 306 Barbecue-Florence
Step inside 306 Barbecue-Florence, and the scent of slow-smoked ribs draws you to the counter. This spot knows its way around the pit, serving up meats with a serious smoke ring and sides that taste like the recipe cards came straight out of a Southern grandma’s kitchen.
The vibe is relaxed in a way that only a true BBQ joint can be. I still remember the first forkful of their pulled chicken—it was juicy, smoky, and full of honest flavor. The brown sugar green beans and creamy mac & cheese aren’t just sides here, they’re headline acts.
Order the dry-rubbed brisket or Brunswick stew for the full experience. Leave room for their homemade banana pudding, a soft finish to all that savory goodness.
3. Flobama Restaurant
Flobama Restaurant brings downtown Florence a dose of character with its casual dining and BBQ charm. It’s the kind of place where live music sometimes hums in the background, and locals swap stories over full plates. There’s a lively pulse here that shows up on every plate.
What makes Flobama memorable is its blend of Southern comfort with a creative twist. Any BBQ lover should try their smoked pulled chicken sandwich—smoky, juicy, and touched with a house-made sauce that flips expectations. Their BBQ platter with slaw and baked beans hits classic notes with real depth.
I once dropped by on a busy Saturday, only to be welcomed with fast service and portions hearty enough to share. For anyone who wants a taste of Florence—both the town and its BBQ traditions—this spot delivers on both fronts.
4. Dick Howell Barbeque Pit
Dick Howell Barbeque Pit is where old-school BBQ still holds court. This spot has a loyal local following, and it only takes one bite to get why. The pit-smoked aroma greets you before you reach the door, hinting at the meals inside.
The atmosphere has that comfortable, family-run feel. I stopped in one afternoon and ended up staying longer than planned, chatting with regulars who swear by the place. The chopped beef BBQ plate is the star here, served up with classic sides and a slightly tangy sauce that lingers just enough.
If you want tradition without the fuss, Dick Howell’s delivers hearty barbecue with straightforward goodness. It’s easy to feel like a regular here, even on your first visit.
5. Rick’s Barbecue
Rick’s Barbecue is the sort of local landmark you stumble upon and then start visiting on purpose. Known for its quick service and no-nonsense approach, this BBQ joint is a real go-to for anyone seeking authentic flavors on a tight schedule.
The drive-thru stays busy, but don’t let that rush fool you—nobody’s cutting corners on taste. My last trip, I grabbed a pulled turkey plate, and the smoky, moist meat didn’t disappoint. If you want something extra, their baked beans and creamy slaw make fine companions to any order.
Rick’s stands out for merging convenience with genuine quality. The portions are solid, the turnover fast, and the barbecue is exactly what you hope for when hunger hits.
6. Pop’s Barbeque
Pop’s Barbeque is a bit off the beaten path, but that just makes finding it feel like you’ve uncovered a local secret. The prices are easy on your wallet, but the flavor doesn’t play second fiddle. This is the kind of place where barbecue comes with a handshake and a smile.
Stop by for a classic pulled chicken sandwich—smoked low and slow, paired with a tangy sauce that does justice to North Alabama tradition. I still remember my first visit, where a platter of their signature BBQ left me more than satisfied and plotting another trip back.
Pop’s does simple, honest barbecue with zero pretension. If you love generous helpings and hearty sides, you’ll feel right at home at their tables.
7. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse in Florence is where classic barbecue meets a big, energetic dining room. Their reputation for fall-off-the-bone ribs is well earned. It’s a chain, but the service carries a local warmth you won’t find everywhere.
I once stopped by for a late lunch and was greeted with complimentary fresh-baked bread—always a good start. The smoked ribs are juicy and packed with flavor, and their house-made sides, like seasoned green beans and baked sweet potato, more than pull their weight.
If your group has varied tastes, Texas Roadhouse shines with a menu wide enough to please everyone. For a dependable, lively spot with ribs that set the standard, this place handles barbecue with surprising soul.
8. Bunyan’s Bar B Que
(256) 766-3522Call
Bunyan’s Bar B Que stands as a Florence favorite for a reason. The aroma of slow-smoked meat hits you as soon as you arrive, promising an experience rooted in real southern tradition. It’s been part of the local scene for decades and continues to impress both regulars and newcomers.
Every visit makes it clear why this spot has a loyal following. My last sandwich here was stacked with pulled chicken, smoky and tender, finished with their sharp slaw for a tangy kick. Their classic BBQ plate, with hearty baked beans and potato salad, is the taste of North Alabama done right.
Takeout or dine-in, you’ll get quick service and generous portions. Bunyan’s Bar B Que does barbecue with character—each bite has the stamp of local flavor.
9. The Brass Monkey
(256) 275-3388Call
The Brass Monkey doesn’t pretend to be traditional—it leans in to the fun side of barbecue. This spot mixes smoky flavors with a laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite for anyone who likes to pair their meal with a bit of local personality.
The menu offers a range of BBQ-inspired dishes, but the pulled chicken is what you’ll hear about first. It arrives moist, perfectly seasoned, and generous. Their loaded BBQ nachos deserve a mention too: tangy, smoky, and piled high with slaw, they could be a meal on their own.
If you like barbecue that comes with creative twists and plenty of local color, The Brass Monkey is worth a linger. The portions are hearty, and the flavor keeps up with the buzz.
10. Rick’s BBQ
Rick’s BBQ has earned its stripes as a go-to when you want consistent, hearty barbecue that never skimps on flavor. It’s the kind of place where locals grab lunch or a weeknight dinner and never look back. Everything about the place says “come as you are.”
What stands out most for me is the smoked turkey sandwich—juicy, rich, and filling, with a classic sauce that pulls everything together. Their signature barbecue plate, complete with baked beans and creamy slaw, is a Florence comfort-food staple.
Service is fast whether you’re inside or using the drive-thru. If you’re after great BBQ with a steady hand on the smoker, Rick’s BBQ has it handled, with loyal customers to prove it.
More Things to Try in Florence, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular BBQ dish in Florence, AL?
Pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken plates lead the pack. These classics showcase the region’s love of smoky meat, tangy sauce, and crunchy slaw piled high.
Are there any BBQ spots in Florence with vegetarian-friendly sides?
Yes, several locations—like 306 Barbecue-Florence and Texas Roadhouse—offer sides such as mac and cheese, seasoned green beans, and baked potatoes. You can build a hearty meal without the meat.
Do any Florence BBQ restaurants offer takeout or delivery?
Most BBQ places in Florence offer takeout, and many have drive-thru or local delivery. Spots like Rick’s BBQ, Bunyan’s BBQ, and 306 Barbecue-Florence make it easy to enjoy BBQ at home.
Is it possible to find halal or strictly non-pork options at Florence BBQ restaurants?
While most menus feature traditional Southern barbecue, you’ll find non-pork options like smoked chicken and turkey at several local restaurants. It’s a good idea to call ahead and ask about meal prep if you have specific dietary needs.
When’s the best time to visit BBQ restaurants in Florence?
Lunch and early dinner are both sweet spots—lines move quickly, and the smoker is always running. Weekends can be busy, but it adds to the lively atmosphere and means the barbecue is always fresh.