9 Georgia BBQ Joints Famous For The Best Brunswick Stew

Georgia knows how to do barbecue right, and nothing proves it better than a steaming bowl of Brunswick stew. This thick, hearty dish combines tender smoked meats with vegetables in a tomato-based broth that warms you from the inside out.

I’ve tracked down nine legendary barbecue spots across the state where you can taste some of the finest Brunswick stew ever made.

1. Fresh Air Bar-B-Que (Jackson)

Since opening its doors in 1929, this Jackson institution has been serving up bowls of comfort that locals can’t stop talking about. The secret lies in their rich tomato base that perfectly complements tender pulled pork swimming alongside corn and lima beans.

You’ll taste nearly a century of perfected recipes in every spoonful. Families have been making pilgrimages here for generations, and one bite explains why this place remains a Georgia treasure.

2. Old Brick Pit BBQ (Atlanta)

Family recipes passed down since 1976 make this Chamblee spot a must-visit for stew enthusiasts. Generous chunks of hickory-smoked pork give their Brunswick stew an unmistakable depth that you won’t find at chain restaurants.

The chunky, tomato-rich consistency sets it apart from thinner versions served elsewhere. When you want authentic Georgia flavor without pretension, this family-owned gem delivers exactly what your taste buds crave.

3. Old Hickory House BBQ (Tucker)

Operating since the 1950s means they’ve had decades to perfect their craft. Their Brunswick stew achieves something magical – a balance between chunky and smooth textures that keeps your spoon coming back for more.

Tender shredded meat mingles with vegetables while a slight spicy kick adds excitement without overwhelming your palate. I appreciate how they’ve maintained their original recipe through changing times and trends.

4. Scott’s Walk-Up Bar-B-Q (Cartersville)

Hidden gems like this Cartersville spot prove that the best food often comes from unexpected places. What makes their stew truly unique is the combination of three meats – pork, chicken, and beef – creating layers of flavor most recipes never achieve.

That depth of flavor comes from hours of slow smoking and careful blending. Don’t let the modest walk-up setup fool you into driving past this remarkable destination.

5. Southern Soul Barbeque (St. Simons Island)

Coastal Georgia brings its own twist to traditional recipes, and this island establishment proves it beautifully. Apple cider vinegar adds a distinctive tang to their Brunswick stew that sets it apart from mainland versions.

Smoked pork and chicken meld together in a broth that captures the spirit of low-country cooking. After a day at the beach, nothing hits the spot quite like their signature bowl of comfort.

6. Sweet T’s Smokehouse (Adel)

Small towns often guard the best-kept culinary secrets, and Adel’s favorite smokehouse exemplifies this truth perfectly. Fire-roasted tomatoes and okra give their Brunswick stew a uniquely Southern flavor profile that you’ll remember long after your visit.

The addition of okra adds body and tradition to every bowl served. I love how they embrace regional ingredients that honor Georgia’s agricultural heritage.

7. Sprayberry’s Barbecue (Newnan)

Almost a century of operation has taught this Newnan establishment exactly how to create velvety perfection in a bowl. Their Brunswick stew features corn and lima beans in a texture so smooth it practically melts on your tongue.

Since 1926, they’ve refined their recipe to near-perfection while staying true to traditional roots. Walking through their doors feels like stepping into Georgia’s rich barbecue history.

8. Georgia Bob’s Barbecue Company (Warner Robins)

Tradition meets innovation at this Warner Robins favorite where old-school flavors get a modern refinement. Both chicken and pork swim together in their Brunswick stew, creating a balanced flavor that appeals to traditional purists and adventurous eaters alike.

You’ll appreciate how they respect classic recipes while adding their own thoughtful touches. Sometimes the best food comes from respecting the past while embracing the present.

9. Sconyers Bar-B-Que (Augusta)

Augusta’s barbecue scene wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this legendary establishment that’s been feeding hungry crowds for decades. Their Brunswick stew combines traditional vegetables with perfectly smoked meats in a recipe that’s been refined through years of customer feedback.

Every bowl showcases why Georgia takes its stew so seriously. When locals recommend a place this enthusiastically, you know you’re in for something special and delicious.