Barbecue in Athens, Alabama, is more than food. It’s a way of life. The smoky smell, the hearty flavors, the friendly faces—everything feels just right.
Wondering where to eat BBQ in Athens, AL? Try Whitt’s Barbecue, LawLers Barbecue, or RD’s Smokehouse BBQ. They serve juicy meat, rich sauces, and the best Southern hospitality you’ll find anywhere.
Dive in with me as I share all the delicious details. From tender ribs to cozy vibes, I’ll guide you through Athens’ top spots. You won’t want to miss this!
Top 10 BBQ in Athens, AL
- Whitt’s Barbecue
- LawLers Barbecue
- 306 Barbecue
- Whitt’s Barbecue
- Ro’s Grille
- RD’s Smokehouse BBQ
- FIN’S Beach Bar and Grill
- Slim Chickens
- Roosters Restaurant
- Ramona J’s
1. Whitt’s Barbecue
Phone: (256) 232-3385
Menu: www.whittsbbqoriginal.com
Directions: Open on Map
Whitt’s Barbecue is a real gem in Athens. It has a cozy vibe that feels just like home. The smell of hickory smoke hits you as soon as you walk in. I always feel welcome here.
The menu is full of mouthwatering options. Their pork, chicken, and ribs are simply amazing. I love the sides, too. The coleslaw and baked beans are perfect.
When I visit, I can’t resist the pulled pork sandwich. It’s super tender and bursting with flavor. You have to try it! Whitt’s just knows how to make BBQ feel special. I always leave with a happy belly and a big smile.
2. LawLers Barbecue
Phone: (256) 233-1818
Menu: www.lawlersbarbecue.com
Directions: Open on Map
LawLers Barbecue is one of my favorite spots in Athens. It has a laid-back vibe that feels so welcoming. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the delicious smell of BBQ. It just feels good to be there.
The St. Louis-style ribs are absolutely incredible. They’re juicy and so tender. I also love their BBQ sandwiches. They’re packed with flavor and never disappoint. And let’s not forget the sides! The mac and cheese is creamy and delicious.
If you visit, you have to try the ribs. They are smoky and full of taste. Every bite makes me happy. LawLers really knows how to do BBQ right!
3. 306 Barbecue
306 Barbecue is definitely a place to check out in Athens. The vibe is super relaxed and comfy. As soon as I walked in, the smell of smoked meat made my mouth water. It’s a great spot to hang out.
The BBQ here is really something special. Everything is house-smoked, and you can taste the care they put into it. Their wings are crispy and full of flavor, too. The sides like coleslaw and baked beans are always a hit.
If I had to choose a favorite, it would be the smoked brisket. It’s so tender and juicy. I love to pair it with a nice orange juice. Every visit to 306 Barbecue feels like a treat!
4. Whitt’s Barbecue
Phone: (256) 232-7928
Menu: www.whittsbbqoriginal.com
Directions: Open on Map
Whitt’s Barbecue on Elm Street is a treasure. The place has a simple, homey feel. When I stepped in, the smell of hickory-smoked meat was mouth-watering. This BBQ joint is perfect for an easy, relaxed meal.
Their smoked meats are top-notch. The flavors are deep and rich. I love their wings—they’re crunchy and juicy. It’s also really affordable. You get a lot for your money here.
The pulled pork sandwich is my favorite. It’s smoky and tastes amazing with their tangy coleslaw. Their sides, like baked beans and potato salad, are great too. Each bite shows they take pride in their food.
5. Ro’s Grille
Phone: (256) 230-2716
Menu: www.rosgrille.com
Directions: Open on Map
Ro’s Grille at 126 N Jefferson St is a nice find in Athens. The place has a cozy feel. You can choose to sit inside or outside. It’s a great spot for a meal with friends or family.
When I went there, I felt right at home. The staff was super friendly, and the atmosphere was relaxed. It’s the kind of place you want to linger at.
What makes Ro’s Grille special is the quality of the food. Their BBQ is really well done. I’d say you should try the smoked brisket. It’s so tender and flavorful. Pair it with their delicious collard greens. You’ll have a meal that’s both tasty and memorable!
6. RD’s Smokehouse BBQ
Phone: (256) 683-9990
Menu: 4rdsbbq.com
Directions: Open on Map
RD’s Smokehouse BBQ sits at 1811 Nick Davis Rd in Harvest, AL. This cozy spot feels like home. They have indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose what suits you. Delivery and takeout options are a lifesaver on lazy days. Plus, it’s wheelchair-accessible, which is a nice touch.
My visit was fantastic. The friendly staff made me feel right at home. I can’t stop thinking about their smoked ribs. They were so tender and tasty. The coleslaw and baked beans were just perfect with it. RD’s BBQ truly stands out. They use top-quality ingredients and have a knack for smoky perfection. Their homemade sauces are a must-try. They add that extra kick to every bite.
If you go, don’t miss out on the smoked ribs. They’re a true gem. Enjoy!
7. FIN’S Beach Bar and Grill
FIN’S Beach Bar and Grill is such a fun place! It’s located at 110 W Green St in Athens. The vibe feels like you’re on vacation. You can sit inside or outside, depending on your mood. They also have curbside pickup and takeout, which is super handy.
When I visited, I was blown away by the lively atmosphere. The staff was friendly and made me feel welcome right away. What really sets FIN’S apart is their unique twist on BBQ. I tried the smoked barbecue shrimp, and wow, it was amazing! The shrimp was juicy and cooked perfectly.
If you go there, you have to try that dish. It really captures the fun and flavor of FIN’S Beach Bar. You’ll love it!
8. Slim Chickens
Phone: (256) 795-4440
Menu: slimchickens.com
Directions: Open on Map
Slim Chickens is a fun spot! It’s located at 1814 US Hwy 72 E in Athens. This place specializes in chicken dishes, which is just great. You can grab food to go or sit down to eat. The prices are really good, too, and the entrance is wheelchair-accessible.
When I went there, I loved the friendly vibe. The staff welcomed me with smiles. I tried the chicken fingers, and wow, they were delicious!
What really makes Slim Chickens special is the Southern sides and desserts served in jars. It’s such a cute idea! I recommend the chicken and waffles. It’s sweet, savory, and just plain tasty. You’re going to love it!
9. Roosters Restaurant
Phone: (256) 230-9001
Menu: www.roostersinathens.com
Directions: Open on Map
Roosters Restaurant is a great find! It’s located at 125 US-31 in Athens, AL. You can sit inside or outside, which is nice. They also offer delivery and takeout for those on the go. Plus, it’s easy to get in since the entrance is wheelchair-accessible.
When I visited, I loved the friendly atmosphere. The staff was super welcoming. It felt like a cozy home away from home.
What really stands out about Roosters is their BBQ. It’s always tender and full of flavor. I suggest trying the BBQ ribs. They’re so juicy and perfectly seasoned. You’ll definitely walk away happy!
10. Ramona J’s
Ramona J’s is such a cozy spot! It’s right there on US-31, and you can’t miss it. The prices are kind to your wallet. You can sit indoors or chill outside. Plus, they even deliver if you’re feeling lazy.
I went there last weekend, and wow, it felt so welcoming. The staff made me feel like family. The smell of BBQ hit me the second I walked in. It was one of those “I know this is gonna be good” moments.
The pulled pork stole the show. It’s tender, smoky, and full of flavor. Don’t skip the baked beans! They’re sweet, hearty, and perfect with the pork. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
Map of BBQ in Athens, AL
Choosing the Right Restaurant for You
With 10 excellent places, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Restaurant | Price | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Whitt’s Barbecue | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | No |
| LawLers Barbecue | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
| 306 Barbecue | Moderate | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
| Whitt’s Barbecue | Inexpensive | – | Yes | No | – | No |
| Ro’s Grille | Moderate | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes |
| RD’s Smokehouse BBQ | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
| FIN’S Beach Bar and Grill | – | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes |
| Slim Chickens | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
| Roosters Restaurant | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
| Ramona J’s | Inexpensive | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best BBQ places in Athens, AL?
You really can’t go wrong with Whitt’s, LawLers, or RD’s Smokehouse. They all have something special to offer!
What BBQ dish should I try?
You’ve gotta try the pulled pork sandwich! It’s super tender and oh-so-flavorful.
Can I get BBQ catered in Athens, AL?
Yes! Many places like 306 Barbecue do catering. Perfect for parties or events!
Are there BBQ spots with outdoor seating?
For sure! Ramona J’s has a nice outdoor area where you can enjoy your meal.
What sides go well with BBQ?
You can’t go wrong with baked beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese. They pair perfectly with BBQ!
Are there vegetarian options at BBQ restaurants?
Yes, many places offer sides like salads or even veggie plates. Just check with the menu!
What are typical hours for BBQ places in Athens?
Most BBQ restaurants are open for lunch and dinner. Many usually close around 8 PM.
Do they deliver BBQ in Athens, AL?
Absolutely! Many places, including Ramona J’s, offer delivery. Great for a lazy day!
Is there live music at BBQ restaurants?
Sometimes! It’s best to check their schedule. Some places have live music on weekends.
How much should I expect to spend on BBQ?
BBQ is pretty affordable here! Most dishes are between $5 and $15, depending on what you get.
