Savannah, Georgia is a city that knows how to work a smoker. If you’ve wandered under the Spanish moss with a craving for slow-cooked brisket or pulled chicken, you’re in the right place. The city’s BBQ scene is a blend of tradition and invention, where each pitmaster brings something unique to the table. Over the years, I’ve made a habit of following the sizzle and the scent, determined to separate the simply smoky from the truly unforgettable.
On a personal note, nothing beats the hush that comes over a table when the first plate lands—ribs lacquered with just the right sheen or a pile of warm cornbread on the side. Each spot I’ve listed is more than a stop; it’s a story. If you’re looking for BBQ that’s big on flavor and free of fuss, let’s cut straight to the highlights. The best BBQ in Savannah isn’t just a meal. It’s an experience you’ll remember long after the last bite.
Where to find the best bbq in Savannah, GA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best bbq in Savannah, GA:
- Wiley’s Championship BBQ
- Sandfly BBQ
- Sweet Potatoes
- Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant
- Your Pie
- Papa’s BBQ & Seafood
- Latin Chicks
- Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew
- BowTie Barbecue Co.
- Ole Times Country Buffet
1. Wiley’s Championship BBQ
Wiley’s Championship BBQ turns a Savannah afternoon into something memorable. The scent of smoked meat meets you at the door, a welcome sign you’re in the right spot. With its casual charm, this veteran-owned place takes BBQ seriously, from the slow-smoked chicken to the tender brisket that falls apart at the touch.
Pulled pork here is slow-cooked until it’s packed with honest flavor. Pair it with house-made sauces and you’ll understand why folks head back again and again. I never skip the Brunswick stew, a rich and savory tradition.
Wiley’s is food without pretense—just perfect smoke, warmth, and generous portions. If you want true Southern BBQ in Savannah, this spot belongs at the top of your list.
2. Sandfly BBQ
Sandfly BBQ keeps things straightforward and soulful in Savannah’s historic Sandfly neighborhood. The aroma here is all oak and pecan wood, a savory invitation that drew me in the first time I visited. Inside, the vibe is all about comfort, and the team treats regulars and newcomers with the same easygoing charm.
The smoked chicken and sliced brisket are standouts, each bite layered with subtle smoke and a whisper of sweetness from their signature rub. The house-made collard greens make a perfect match, earthy and rich without being heavy.
Sandfly BBQ’s menu proves less truly is more. For a taste of real Savannah flavor, order the half-chicken plate or the brisket sandwich—you’ll see why this spot has a loyal following.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes brings a taste of Southern comfort to the heart of Savannah. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, a place where locals gather for classics done right. On my last visit, I was drawn in by the smell of cornbread baking and the laughter at almost every table.
The pulled chicken plate is a revelation—tender, perfectly seasoned, and paired with luscious house-made barbecue sauce. The sweet potato souffle on the side is a nod to the kitchen’s name, creamy with just a hint of spice.
It’s the kind of place where you want to linger for dessert. If you manage to save room, the banana pudding really does live up to its reputation. Sweet Potatoes celebrates timeless Southern BBQ, and every bite shows it.
4. Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant
Rancho Alegre Cuban Restaurant takes BBQ in a vibrant, unexpected direction. Set in downtown Savannah, this spot combines big flavors with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. My first time there, the bright colors and energetic music set the perfect tone for what was to come.
The smoked chicken, marinated Cuban-style, stands out for its bold seasoning and juicy tenderness. It’s finished on the grill, capturing the spirit of authentic BBQ with a tropical twist. Pair it with yuca or black beans for a full taste of Havana in Georgia.
This isn’t your typical Southern BBQ joint. Rancho Alegre carves out its own corner in Savannah by serving comfort food with flair. If you want BBQ with a side of adventure, don’t pass this place by.
5. Your Pie
Your Pie brings a fun spin to Savannah’s BBQ scene with its signature brick-oven pizzas. It’s a place where personal pies rule, and everyone gets exactly what they want. I remember watching as my hand-picked ingredients went from the counter straight to the blistering oven—fresh, fast, and filled with flavor.
The BBQ chicken pizza is a clear winner here. Topped with smoked chicken, tangy barbecue sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, it’s their nod to Southern tradition. The crispy, chewy crust keeps the spotlight on the toppings without weighing things down.
Your Pie is all about customization and quality. This spot is a hit for groups wanting both barbecue taste and a little bit of creativity. Even traditionalists have a hard time arguing with a slice this good.
6. Papa’s BBQ & Seafood
Papa’s BBQ & Seafood has been a Savannah staple since the seventies, blending smoked meats and fresh coastal flavors. The easygoing setting makes it an ideal spot to grab a bite with friends after a trip to Tybee Island. I’ve found the service as welcoming as the aroma curling out from the wood-fired pit.
The pulled chicken plate and classic chopped beef sandwich are both excellent picks, each featuring tender meat with just the right amount of smoke. Try the hush puppies—light, golden, and subtly sweet—as a side.
Papa’s bridges land and sea with plenty of BBQ options that never feel rushed or overdone. For straight-up, satisfying Savannah BBQ with local flair, this place always delivers.
7. Latin Chicks
Latin Chicks adds a lively kick to Savannah’s diverse BBQ scene. Their menu blends Latin spices with familiar Southern smoke, offering something far from ordinary. The first time I stopped by, the bright murals and irresistible aromas promised something out of the usual BBQ playbook.
The charcoal-grilled chicken is the star, seasoned in-house and cooked to juicy perfection. Placed alongside fluffy yellow rice and black beans, it brings out a perfect contrast of flavors. The chicken plate, paired with their signature cilantro sauce, is a must-try.
Latin Chicks shines with fusion and freshness. Whether you’re hunting for lunch or a hearty dinner, this spot delivers BBQ and boldness all in one go. Every bite has personality and a bit of a story.
8. Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew
Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew blends classic techniques with a lively, downtown vibe. Set just off bustling State Street, this spot draws you in with the scent of hickory smoke and the clatter of hungry crowds. When I visited, the brisket left a lasting impression—deeply flavored, with a perfect smoke ring and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The pulled chicken platter is the powerhouse here, complemented by tangy house-made sauces and Southern-style sides like collard greens and mac and cheese. Every plate arrives with just the right amount of care and confidence.
Savannah Smokehouse keeps things unpretentious and satisfies every craving. Whether you’re a BBQ purist or just want a great meal to pair with a cold drink, this place lands squarely at the top of the city’s favorites.
9. BowTie Barbecue Co.
BowTie Barbecue Co. isn’t your average smokehouse. It brings a modern, slightly upscale twist to the BBQ traditions Savannah loves. The dining room is polished but relaxed, filled with folks who know their way around a rack of ribs. My last visit proved that BowTie balances craft with comfort effortlessly.
Go for the smoked chicken platter or the beef brisket—it’s where the kitchen’s skill really shines. The meat is smoky, tender, and never overwhelmed by sauce. Their sides, especially the smoked gouda mac and cheese, add just the right touch of indulgence.
BowTie Barbecue Co. delivers BBQ that respects old-school roots but never feels stuck in the past. For anyone seeking style and substance on their plate, this spot nails it every time.
10. Ole Times Country Buffet
Ole Times Country Buffet is a true homage to comfort food in Savannah. The cheerful, bustling dining room invites families and regulars for a meal with variety, warmth, and plenty of seconds. I’ve never left hungry or disappointed, and that says something about any buffet.
The barbeque chicken here is legendary, thanks to juicy cuts bathed in smoky, slightly sweet sauce. Pair it with collard greens and cornbread for a full taste of classic Southern indulgence.
What sets Ole Times apart is their dedication to tradition and freshness. Their BBQ isn’t fancy, but it’s honest—bringing you straight-up flavor with that home-cooked feel. For a no-fuss, fill-your-plate BBQ experience, this buffet always delivers.
More Things to Try in Savannah, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
What BBQ styles can I find in Savannah, GA?
Savannah offers everything from traditional Southern BBQ—including ribs, pulled chicken, and brisket—to fusion styles like Cuban and Latin BBQ. Many spots put their unique spin on classic smoked meats with homemade sauces and creative side dishes.
Are there good BBQ restaurants in downtown Savannah?
Absolutely. Several top BBQ spots can be found right in the heart of downtown, making it easy to enjoy great smoked meats between sightseeing or before exploring River Street.
Do Savannah’s BBQ restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, many BBQ spots, such as Sweet Potatoes and Ole Times Country Buffet, feature veggie-friendly sides and some main dishes. Checking the menu or calling ahead ensures there’s something for every palate.
What’s the typical price range for BBQ in Savannah?
BBQ plates usually range from moderate to affordable, with most meals between $10 and $20. Outliers with upscale settings or extra-large portions may cost a bit more.
Is it common to find halal or non-pork BBQ in Savannah?
While traditional Southern BBQ often centers on pork, several places offer chicken and beef options. It’s best to ask the restaurant directly about halal-friendly choices to be sure.
Do BBQ restaurants in Savannah offer takeout or delivery?
Most BBQ spots offer takeout, and several partner with local delivery services. This is perfect if you want authentic BBQ at your hotel, at home, or even for a riverside picnic.
Are reservations needed for BBQ restaurants in Savannah?
Generally, BBQ spots keep things casual and don’t require reservations. However, they can get busy on weekends or holidays, so arriving early is wise if you want to avoid a wait.