Big Bob Gibson named state’s best barbecue joint by Southern Living
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Each year, Southern Living takes a new poll from its readers to determine every state’s best + favorite barbecue joint.
And to no one’s surprise, the legendary Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q got the nod for the state of Alabama for the second straight year. In 2023, it was selected as the state’s best barbecue by the Food Network.
The restaurant is the oldest on Southern Living’s list with it set to celebrate 100 years in 2025.
“It started out as a backyard operation, with Robert “Big Bob” Gibson cooking pork shoulders and chickens to sell to friends and neighbors. From there he graduated to a series of barbecue stands and eventually an air-conditioned restaurant on Highway 31 just south of Decatur. In 1987, his family moved into the current building, where fifth-generation pitmaster Chris Lilly and his crew still cook on wood-fired brick pits. They’re still using the founder’s sauce recipes, too, including the now-iconic Alabama-style white barbecue sauce that Big Bob created to dress his smoked chicken.”
Southern Living’s Best Barbecue Joint in Every State 2025
Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q has two locations in Decatur with Southern Living directing readers to the original at 1715 6th Ave SE. The second restaurant is located at 2520 Danville Road SW.
Hall of Fame Bar-B-Q
When the American Royal Barbecue Hall of Fame announced its 2024 inductees, Bob Gibson was selected as a legacy inductee. More commonly called “Big Bob Gibson,” the Alabama native started serving barbecue in Decatur in 1925 and his legacy has lived on through multiple generations.
Whether it’s the nostalgia, the people, the environment or just the great food, Big Bob Gibson’s legacy continues to bring customers back.
If you’re looking for a recommendation before you order, you can’t go wrong with a barbecue chicken sandwich smothered in the original white sauce. But don’t worry, there’s an option on the menu for everyone!
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