National Geographic highlights 5 restaurants in ‘Alabama’s Barbecue Trail’
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When national media outlets come to Alabama, they’re usually stopping in some of our world-famous barbecue joints.
Whether it’s for a story or just during a break, it’s hard to not follow the smells to the front door of any number of restaurants across the state.
That’s exactly what National Geographic did as they chose five restaurants to be part of their Alabama Barbecue Trail.
“While the state’s polarizing contribution (white sauce) to the American barbecue consciousness celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, there’s much more to the state’s barbecue than white sauce, and many Alabamians would proudly put their barbecue among the best in the country. With a mouthwatering Alabama Barbecue Trail—from civil rights hot spots to 100-year-old joints—there’s no better way to uncover Alabama’s unique cuisine and history than biting into it.”
Tom Burson, National Geographic
Alabama’s Barbecue Trail

Before listing its five go-to spots, National Geographic did a deep dive into the history of Alabama barbecue.
From its origins to the rise of Alabama white sauce to the restaurants’ role during the civil rights movement, writer Tom Burson explores what made barbecue, or Bar-B-Q or BBQ, so important to Alabama culture.
Ultimately, the story of Alabama barbecue is also a story about family, community, and togetherness.
National Geographic
The story wraps up with a collection of five recommended spots to try Alabama barbecue including:
- Archibald & Woodrow’s Barbecue
- Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q
- Bob Sykes Bar-B-Q
- Brenda’s Bar-Be-Que Pit
- Saw’s BBQ
What spot would you add to the Alabama Barbecue Trail? Let us know on Facebook and Instagram.