Best barbecue in Alabama? Tasting Table picks Tuscaloosa favorite

Ribs kissed by hickory smoke, tender pulled pork and a sauce recipe passed down for generations have helped Archibald & Woodrow’s Barbeque become one of Alabama’s most celebrated barbeque destinations.

Tasting Table named the family-run restaurant the best barbecue spot in the state.

Here’s what to know about the Alabama restaurant worth adding to your must-try list.

Best barbecue in Alabama

Since Archibald & Woodrow’s Barbeque opened its doors in 1962, three generations have carried on the tradition of slow-cooked barbecue, turning a small mom-and-pop operation into a nationally recognized name.

Tasting Table says that while Alabama is known for its white Alabama BBQ sauce, there’s no sauce required for the pork ribs served up at Archibald’s.

Archibald’s has gained attention from Good Morning America, Southern Living and The New York Times.

What’s on the menu? 

The restaurant’s menu centers on classic Alabama barbecue, with hickory-smoked ribs and pulled pork leading the way.

Diners can order everything from full slabs of ribs and pork sandwiches to half chickens, jumbo hot wings and barbecue platters all served with sauce and bread.

The restaurant offers Southern comfort food beyond barbecue, including fried catfish, whiting, chicken tenders and country dinners featuring dishes like country-fried steak and pork chops.

There are plenty of side dish options, including macaroni and cheese and fried green tomatoes, to liven up any meal. To finish the meal, guests can choose from banana pudding or pound cake.

A legendary Alabama connection

Over the decades, Archibald & Woodrow’s Barbeque has attracted plenty of devoted fans, including one of Alabama’s most iconic figures.

Local lore says legendary Crimson Tide football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant was among the restaurant’s early customers, with stories of him stopping by for a taste of the barbecue and hot wings while wearing his trademark houndstooth hat.

Location and hours

• Where:
  • Northport- 1211 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
  • Tuscaloosa- 4215 Greensboro Ave
• Hours:
  • Northport: Monday- Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., closed on Sunday
  • Tuscaloosa: Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jennifer Lindahl is a Breaking and Trending Reporter in Alabama for USA TODAY’s Deep South Connect Team. Connect with her on X @jenn_lindahl and email at jlindahl@usatodayco.com.