Barbecue in Savannah isn’t just food…it’s a way of life. From smoky neighborhood joints with lines out the door to hidden gems serving up secret-recipe sauces, the city’s pitmasters know how to pile flavor high and keep tradition alive.
Let’s get to it.
Barnes Restaurant
Since opening in 1975, Barnes Restaurant has been the local authority on Southern barbecue in Savannah. Their menu sends fresh Boston butts, ribs, and brisket on a pilgrimage through hickory and oak smoke. The result is tender pulled pork, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and brisket that feels like a masterclass in comfort food. Don’t hold back on their house-made barbecue sauces…they’re built for generous slathering.
Classic Southern sides come in hearty portions. Creamy mac and cheese, savory Brunswick stew, collard greens, red rice, baked beans, and crisp slaw share the table. Your plate will look piled high, and your to-go box might even steal the show.
Prices stay moderate, so no wallet meltdown here. You can settle in for a casual dine-in experience or swing by for takeout. Their catering service is ready for family reunions, weddings, or even your next book club gathering. To top it all off, they recycle, support local causes, and serve sweet tea that goes down easy. Smoky flavors await right here.
BowTie Barbecue Co
At BowTie Barbecue Co. in Savannah, you won’t find mystery sauces or frozen fries. Every element comes from their scratch kitchen. Hand-cut fries meet small-batch sauces…no squeeze-bottle secrets here. Meats like brisket, ribs, smoked chicken, and pulled pork soak up oak-fueled Southern Pride smoker magic, giving each bite depth and character.
The menu also carries on recipes from the old Johnny Harris Restaurant. That means you might spot batterless fried chicken or a 1924 Salad standing shoulder to shoulder with barbecue classics.
Side lovers, rejoice. Creamy mac and cheese, fried green tomatoes, and squash casserole show that sometimes the accompaniments can rival the main event. Portions are generous…nobody strolls out hungry.
Family-run and casual, BowTie welcomes dine-in and takeout guests under a covered patio. And for whiskey enthusiasts, their 120+ bottle selection ensures there’s always something interesting to pair with your barbecue feast. Scope their smoky glory here.
Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ- Savannah, GA
Around downtown, Crave Hot Dogs & BBQ- Savannah, GA turns casual dining into a choose-your-own-adventure. Start with a hot dog and build it with over twenty toppings. Quirky combos like the Loaded Baked Potato Dog push classic into unexpected territory.
On the barbecue front, you’ll find pulled pork, pulled chicken, brisket, and ribs served in generous portions alongside sweet potato tots and creamy mac and cheese. The plates are never skimpy…you’ll leave satisfied.
A self-pour beer wall adds interactive fun, featuring local craft beers and ciders that pair perfectly with smoky flavors.
For a true group outing, try ax throwing and lawn games. It’s the kind of spot where fast, affordable food meets unapologetic fun. Crave keeps energy high and appetites happy. Explore Crave’s loaded menu now.
Erica Davis Lowcountry
Steeped in 75 years of seafood and barbecue tradition, Erica Davis Lowcountry wears its heritage proudly. This family-owned spot slow-smokes brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken over a blend of pecan and hickory. No generic seasonings here…every cut of pork gets their signature Lowcountry rub.
Sides are equally revered. You’ll find golden fried okra, stone-ground creamy grits, and colorful Savannah red rice filling half your plate. Portion sizes encourage second helpings and unforgettable leftovers.
Whether you’re dining in, picking up a party platter, or planning a wedding menu swap, their catering team handles it all with Southern hospitality.
Reasonable prices, generous servings, and a selection of local beers complete the experience. Seasonal specials and regional awards keep the menu fresh and proudly rooted in Lowcountry flavor. Dig into coastal comfort at Erica Davis Lowcountry.
Fields Barbeque Pig on a Pit
At Fields Barbeque Pig on a Pit, the philosophy is simple… keep it Southern, keep it smoky, and never let a guest leave hungry. Tucked away on W 52nd Street in Savannah, this family-run spot serves up straight-from-the-heart classics. Ribs slow-dance over hickory wood for hours. Smoked chicken, ribeye steak, pulled pork follow suit. Barbecue purists nod in approval.
Skip sticky-sweet sauces at the door. Here the signature vinegar-based sauce steals the show. Thin and tangy, its quirky character will make you forget neon-red bottles. Sides hold their own. Baked beans, green beans, hush puppies, potato salad arrive unfussy and generous.
Slide up to the counter to grab your meal to go. Seating is limited but that smoky aroma travels well. Don’t miss seasonal surprises. Salmon bites pop up now and then. Casual, filling, and fast, Fields keeps customers coming back. It’s no wonder this spot racks up high ratings. Find out why locals call this place a must.
Munchie’s BBQ & Soul food
At Munchie’s BBQ & Soul Food, Southern smoke meets soulful flavors in the heart of Savannah. This family-owned spot specializes in ribs so tender they practically fall off the bone. If you’re a fan of oxtails, smothered turkey wings, or lamb chops, you’ll find plenty to love here. The meats pick up a rich aroma from pecan and oak wood, giving each bite a comforting depth.
The side dishes have their own fan base. Creamy mac and cheese and red rice with sausage bring warmth to the plate, while collard greens simmered just right offer a classic touch. Potato salad often surprises regulars by stealing the spotlight with its tangy dressing and crisp texture. Homemade sauces round out the meal, each one crafted to complement the smoky qualities of the meat.
Portion sizes are generous, and the staff clearly cares about leaving every guest happy. Whether you dine in, place an order to go, or cater your next event, Munchie’s serves up soul food that feels like home. See what’s smokin’ on their menu.
No Sauce Barbecue
If you love bold flavors, No Sauce Barbecue is a must-visit in Savannah. Located on Skidaway Road, this family-run joint puts meat center stage and treats sauce as a polite sidekick—best savored on wings. The ribs and brisket deliver a deep, smoky flavor that seeps right to the bone. Pulled pork, chicken, and smoked turkey wings fill out the lineup, each cut promising a hefty dose of smokiness and robust seasoning.
Sides earn their place on the plate, too. Creamy mac and cheese, sweet baked beans, and tangy potato salad come alongside surprises such as seafood salad and smoked cabbage… all aiming to delight adventurous taste buds. Generous portions and fair prices mean you’ll leave satisfied without breaking the bank.
There’s no fancy dining room—order at the counter, grab your tray, and head out. Yet the friendly service and relaxed vibe make you feel like part of the crew. When you want barbecue that lets the meat speak for itself, No Sauce Barbecue consistently rises to the occasion. Get your hands on Savannah’s sauceless secret here.
Papa’s BBQ & Seafood
Since 1972, Papa’s BBQ & Seafood has been a Savannah institution. What began as a humble carry-out on West Bay Street has grown into a full-service, family-friendly restaurant on Whitemarsh Island. The focus remains the same: slow-smoked, hickory-infused meats that melt in your mouth and sauces that complement without overpowering.
The menu reads like a carnivore’s dream—fall-off-the-bone ribs, pulled pork, brisket, smoked sausage, and chicken. Each cut is paired with Papa’s house-made sauces, from tangy tomato-based to sweet vinegar blends. Sides stick to Southern classics: hush puppies, fried okra, collard greens, and sweet potato casserole rounding out the plate.
Prices stay reasonable and portions challenge even the heartiest appetites. A full bar offers beer, wine, and cocktails for those who want to toast a good meal. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a gathering, Papa’s BBQ & Seafood delivers genuine Southern hospitality and flavors that keep diners coming back year after year. See why locals have loved them for decades.
Reece Barbecue
On Fridays and Saturdays, Reece Barbecue rolls onto Ogeechee Road with a simple mission: great barbecue without fuss. This takeout-only spot sticks to the essentials—ribs, pulled pork, chicken, brisket, and turkey wings—all smoked to tender perfection and ready for you to pick up and enjoy at home.
The sides keep that straightforward approach. Collard greens, baked beans, red rice, potato salad, and coleslaw arrive in generous portions. Fries add a casual crunch. Each dish tastes like it came straight from a Southern grandma’s kitchen, and prices reflect both quality and portion size.
No white tablecloths, no reservations—just counter service and a scoreboard of smoky aromas. It’s the kind of place where you plan ahead, show up early, and leave with enough leftovers to power through the week. Simple, satisfying, and true to barbecue tradition, Reece Barbecue proves that less can be more… as long as it’s delicious. Scope out their smoky offerings here.
Sandfly Barbeque
Hidden away in Savannah, Sandfly Barbeque feels like a well-kept secret. Family-owned and led by Keith Latture, this counter-service spot focuses on Memphis-style barbecue, layering pecan and hickory smoke into every bite. Pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked sausage, and slabs of ribs head the menu, each served with your pick of house-made sauces—sweet Memphis, mustardy Savannah, or a North Carolina–style vinegar kick.
The sides rival the main event. Fried okra, Brunswick stew, and creamy mac and cheese all vie for attention. Portion sizes flirt with daredevil territory, so pacing yourself might be wise. Beer is available to wash it all down and cool off between smoky mouthfuls.
Indoor and picnic-table seating offer options, but plenty of folks take their meals to go. Prices remain approachable, especially given how much food appears on your tray. If you’re chasing big barbecue flavors in a laid-back setting, Sandfly Barbeque delivers every time. Peep the menu where secrets aren’t kept.
Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew
At Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew, the focus is squarely on hearty, hickory-smoked meats in a fast-casual setting. Counter service keeps lines moving and the aroma of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, chicken, smoked turkey, and sausage fills the air. Every cut spends quality time in a Southern Pride smoker, absorbing a signature smoky sweetness.
Indecisive diners can opt for the sampler for two, which arrives piled high and ready to challenge most takeout containers. Sauce options include Sweet Peach, Tangy Carolina, Caribbean Jerk, and classic Hickory Smoke—each pairing designed to enhance the meat, not smother it.
No barbecue plate is complete without sides. Mac and cheese, coleslaw, baked beans, and Brunswick stew all make solid appearances. Fried okra provides a nostalgic snap while lighter salads stand by for balance. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeaway, or arranging catering, Savannah Smokehouse BBQ & Brew covers all bases—just leave room for the elastic waistband. Give your taste buds something to write home about.
Sho-Nuff Deli
When hunger strikes in Savannah, Sho-Nuff Deli has all the answers. It blends a BBQ joint and a seafood shack in one spot so you never have to choose. Tender ribs share the spotlight with flavorful shrimp, oysters, and other coastal treats. Creamy mac and cheese and sweet southern lemonade can easily pass as dessert.
Miss Joyce runs the place with a welcoming smile and smokehouse expertise honed over years. You’ll dine inside or grab a picnic-style table outside where dogs are welcome. Outdoor seating turns every meal into a laid-back event under the trees. Limited indoor tables fill up quickly, but the fresh air helps pass the time while you wait.
Whether you pick up dinner, order no-contact delivery, or dine in, Sho-Nuff covers every preference. They accept all major cards so you won’t have to worry about cash. The family-friendly vibe and hints of quirky charm make returning a no-brainer. By the end of your meal, you’ll already be planning your next visit. Dive into their menu here.
SlowFireBBQ
At SlowFireBBQ, genuine Texas-style barbecue rolls out of a single food truck. Pitmaster Terren Williams spent a decade mastering smoke techniques in Dallas. He uses only oak and pecan wood to coax deep flavor into every brisket, rib, and pork belly.
Each cut smolders over an all-wood fire with no shortcuts in sight. Williams sources ingredients directly from local farms by shaking hands, not grabbing off a shelf. The result is succulent meat wrapped in a smoky aroma that hits you the moment you arrive.
The sides here demand as much attention as the meats. Rich mac and cheese, smoky collard greens, and burnt-end baked beans cater to every craving. The seasonal menu keeps things fresh, and the picnic tables turn each order into an outdoor feast. Texas Monthly crowned this truck Georgia’s best barbecue destination. Show up early to claim your spot at the picnic table, because word travels fast on smoky goodness. Don’t let the food truck setting fool you, this is serious barbecue. Get a taste of fire-cooked Savannah flavor here.
Squealing Hog BBQ
Right in the heart of Savannah, Squealing Hog BBQ holds court over meat lovers. Pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and wings take center stage, each slow-smoked to perfection.
Four house sauces—original, sweet, hot, and mustard—offer a saucy exploration for every palate. Nobody expects you to pick a favorite in one visit.
Classic Southern sides back up the main act. Mac and cheese melts across your fork, collard greens still taste like grandma’s, and hush puppies named after Karen might just steal the show. Generous helpings of cornbread and potato salad round out the spread.
The counter service vibe remains casual and relaxed. Families feel right at home, even without a bar on site. Portions arrive so large you’ll think twice before ordering more. No frills, just down-home cooking done right.
Takeout or dine-in, Squealing Hog nails every visit. Either way, you’ll leave with leftovers and a plan to return soon. See what’s smokin’ at Squealing Hog BBQ.
Tricks Barbecue
Beneath the smoke at Tricks Barbecue, you’ll find hearty plates of ribs, chicken, beef, and even lamb. They keep things simple… no indoor seating or cocktails, just generous portions served to go.
Their mustard-based sauce has earned a local cult following. Each meat option turns into a saucy adventure thanks to that tangy blend.
Sides here refuse to play second fiddle. Baked beans bubble with sweet heat, potato salad stays cool, collard greens bring comfort, and seafood salad rounds out the lineup.
Tricks Barbecue opens Tuesday through Saturday for takeout only, so plan ahead. They recently moved to Garden City, but their top-ranking reputation in Savannah remains intact.
Prices are equally impressive—mountain-high servings without mountain-high bills. Lines form quickly because word travels fast when the smoke tastes this good. Grab your container, head outside, and dig in to see why this joint keeps its badge of honor shining. Expect a line, but also expect perfection. Follow for smoky goodness updates.
Wiley’s Championship BBQ
Stepping into Wiley’s Championship BBQ in Savannah delivers a straightforward promise: award-winning slow-smoked barbecue. Founded by competition champ Wiley McCrary in 2008, this family-owned joint has earned titles like Georgia’s best BBQ and nods from CNN and Southern Living.
The menu highlights meats smoked in a massive Southern Pride pit. You’ll find St. Louis cut ribs and brisket that takes up to 14 hours over low heat. Carolina pulled pork and more make an appearance too. Portions are generous and the vibe is laid-back as families and locals gather. On the side, fried okra and sweet potato casserole are show-stealers in their own right.
Sauce fans can choose from the original or extra-tingly “Better-Than-Sex” variety, so grab a napkin. There’s no reservation system, meaning walk-ins only. Dine in or go for takeout—just note that Tuesdays are takeout-only. They serve until the BBQ runs out, and judging by the lines, that’s sooner than you might think. See what the BBQ fuss is all about.
Charlie Graingers
Hidden behind a modest awning, Charlie Graingers delivers sandwiches that demand attention. Their brisket meets molasses barbecue sauce in perfect harmony. Pulled pork slides onto soft buns, and each bite comes with pickled okra or zesty spicy pickles on the side.
Hot dog fans get a lineup of inventive combos that outscore any fantasy football roster. Every sausage shines, backed by house-made baked beans and sweet cornbread that won’t let you leave hungry.
This fast-casual spot skips the formalities. You won’t wrestle with linen napkins or endure a wine lecture. Instead, you’ll find moderate prices and a menu unafraid of indulgence.
Several locations even serve beer to pair with your sandwich. And when it’s time to feed a crowd, their catering service steps in—guaranteeing your event will be talked about for more than just Aunt Maude’s potato salad. Check out their lineup of legendary sandwiches.
Georgia Restaurant Ventures
Over at Georgia Restaurant Ventures, you’ll find the Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Pooler. Here, Texas-style brisket meets Southern casual in one lively, fast-casual setting. Smoky brisket sits alongside ribs, sausage, and generous piles of pulled pork that might tempt you into an afternoon nap.
The lineup of classic sides leaves no room for complaint. Velvety mac and cheese, crisp slaw, savory beans, and sweet cornbread arrive to mop up every drop of sauce. All sauces and rubs are crafted in-house, adding a homemade touch you won’t want to skip.
Ordering is a breeze. Simply stroll up to the counter, customize your plate, and decide whether you’ll dig in on-site or take it home. Prices hover in that wallet-friendly zone that encourages adding an extra side or two. Whether you’re grabbing a solo lunch, feeding the family, or planning an office spread, options for takeout, dine-in, and catering cover every craving. This joint knows how to deliver generous portions, Southern warmth, and barbecue that stands out. Check out what’s smokin’ at Dickey’s in Pooler.
Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q
Originating in Birmingham, Alabama, Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q has carved out a lasting reputation in the world of Southern barbecue. When you smoke brisket over hickory for a full 12 hours, the results speak for themselves. The menu features all the essentials: pulled pork, ribs, chicken, and turkey, each slow-smoked until tender and smoky.
Sides here feel like an embarrassment of riches. The mac and cheese could easily steal the spotlight on its own. The cornbread has a perfect crumb and sweetness that pairs with every meat choice. And don’t overlook classics like baked beans, coleslaw, and seasoned potatoes.
Sauce enthusiasts will appreciate the variety on offer. The Original sauce celebrates barbecue tradition, while Honey Habanero adds a sweet kick. Morgan County White Sauce delivers a tangy, creamy twist that feels delightfully unexpected. Portion sizes are generous, so you’ll leave satisfied whether you dine in, grab lunch to go, or set up catering for an event. Laid-back service and hearty meals make Jim ’N Nick’s a dependable stop for anyone craving genuine Southern barbecue. Browse the Pooler menu here.
Smokin Pig
Step into Smokin Pig and the aroma of slow-smoked barbecue greets you. This locally owned spot spends hours coaxing flavor into pulled pork, sliced chicken, and St. Louis-style ribs.
You’ll find every four-legged favorite on the menu, all paired perfectly with a tangy mustard-based sauce. Owners Clyde and Kevin Fabre draw on competition experience to give each cut its signature bark and juiciness.
The supporting cast of sides is hard to resist. Creamy mac and cheese, classic Brunswick stew, and coleslaw that tastes like a family secret roll out daily. Counter service keeps things casual, and outdoor seating invites you to linger.
Prices feel like a throwback to simpler times… a hefty pulled pork sandwich can cost under six dollars. There’s no beer, but once the brisket hits your table, you barely notice. Whether you pop in for lunch or pick up dinner to go, Smokin Pig delivers every time. Its old-school charm makes it a neighborhood favorite. See why locals keep coming back for more.
