Who doesn’t love some good ole’ down home barbecue — well, aside from the vegans and vegetarians, of course. There’s just something about smoked meats sizzling on the grill that satisfies the soul. Every region in the United States has its own signature brand of barbecue, but being in Savannah, we’re biased towards the Southern variety: pulled pork piled high, brisket burnt ends, dry-rubbed ribs and other sauce-tossed staples. With such an affinity for barbecue nationwide, it makes sense that we set aside a special day to honor it. May 16 is National Barbecue Day, and if you don’t feel like firing up your own backyard grill, no worries. Savannah is home to several beloved barbecue spots serving up mouthwatering meats for you to enjoy this Barbecue Day. So, join in on the celebration and treat yourself to some satisfying ‘que from one of these sensational smokehouses.
Sandfly Bar-B-Q
Known for their signature Savannah-style barbecue, Sandfly Bar-B-Q is a local favorite for traditional barbecue. The meats are seasoned and smoked over pecan and hickory woods, imparting such rich flavor that will keep you coming back for more. You can get a variety of meats by the pound as well as sandwiches, plates and platters. Try a little of everything with the Hog Wild Platter, which comes with pork, brisket, chicken, sausage and ribs along with two sides and two slices of Texas Toast. Be sure to have your ribs tossed in their tangy mustard-based Savannah sauce. You won’t be disappointed.
Papa’s BBQ
Papa’s BBQ has been serving up bold barbecue favorites to the greater Savannah area since 1972. With such a long legacy, you can rest assured that the food is going to be finger-lickin’ good. Their Barbecue Pork is smoked on the pit for 16 hours, resulting in a delightfully tender bite. They also have Jacksonville Smoked Sausage, St. Louis-style Ribs and so much more. Each dinner comes with two of their signature sides and Texas toast, making for a full meal that will please the palate.
Wiley’s Championship BBQ
Veteran-owned Wiley’s Championship BBQ is lauded for winning many best barbecue titles through the years in the world of competitive ‘que. So if you haven’t yet, you need to see what all the hype is about yourself. They’ve got all of the staples that you’d expect from a world-class barbecue spot, including Smoked Chicken, Ribs and Brisket among others. And if you can’t decide which marvelous meat you’d like to eat, go for the Sampler Plate and have a little of everything. Round out your meal with the pit master’s premium sides and leave a happy customer.
Bowtie Barbecue Co.
For a lovingly made-from-scratch meal head to Bowtie Barbecue. They have both traditional and inventive takes on flavorful barbecue faves that carnivores crave. Start with their Barbecue Poutine or Smoked Brisket Nachos and follow up with some Smoked Wings, Pork Spare Ribs or their juicy Pork Butt. They also have hearty handhelds like the #Hashbrown, featuring brisket, bacon and bourbon maple redux, and the Release the Kraken, made with rib meat, fried onion rings and a chipotle aioli. What’s not to love?
District Smokehouse
Part of Plant Riverside District, District Smokehouse is a relative newcomer to Savannah’s barbecue scene, but it has quickly become a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. The open-air bar is a great place to enjoy melt-in-your-mouth meats along with cool cocktails. Their classics include Smoked Savannah Hot Wings, Pork Belly Burnt Ends and BBQ Mac & Cheese. They also offer platters by the pound, between bread options and loaded taters. It’s a good spot to stop by after a nice stroll on River Street.
