Southern Classic BBQ Competition in Madison, Georgia

Southern Classic BBQ Competition in Madison, Georgia

Best Barbecue in Georgia's Lake Country

Summer is officially here, which means the grill is fired up and it's time to eat some delicious barbecue. We have compiled some of the best barbecue spots and events Georgia's Lake Country has to offer!

Milledgeville

Shadetree BBQ in Milledgeville, Georgia
Shadetree BBQ in Milledgeville, Georgia

Shadetree BBQ

Shadetree BBQ first started as a food truck that traveled across Georgia. Today, they are a family-owned and -operated restaurant located in Milledgeville. The restaurant is dedicated to providing quality food and uses old family recipes and cooking methods to ensure the best barbecue for customers. All items on the menu or made from scratch, so stop by and grab some barbecue and a side of coleslaw. Shadetree BBQ is open Thursday through Sunday.

Old Clinton BBQ in Gray, Georgia
Old Clinton BBQ in Gray, Georgia

Old Clinton BBQ

Old Clinton BBQ is a great local spot to drop by for lunch or dinner, grab some great food, and spend time with friends. They use a Carolina-style, vinegar-based sauce on their barbecue that has been passed down for three generations. Barbecue dishes are served with hot and spicy sauces, but if that's not your style, you can always get barbecue without the sauce. If you are dining with a large group, Old Clinton BBQ offers a family pack for your convenience. This restaurant is open every day of the week.

Eatonton

Georgia Butts BBQ in Eatonton, Georgia. Photo via Tytan Entertainment
Georgia Butts BBQ in Eatonton, Georgia. Photo via Tytan Entertainment

Georgia Butts BBQ

Georgia Butts BBQ overlooks a spectacular view of Lake Oconee, and there's even a place to dock your boat when you’re ready to get off the lake and grab a bite to eat. They serve pulled pork, brisket, ribs, barbecue wings and much more! Georgia Butts BBQ is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus in the evenings they have occasional live music. Try a side of their homemade loaded potato salad or slaw, and pair it with a cold sweet tea. Sit back, relax and take in the view while enjoying some tasty barbecue.

Greensboro

Holcomb's BBQ in Greensboro, Georgia
Holcomb's BBQ in Greensboro, Georgia

Holcomb’s BBQ

Holcomb’s BBQ is located in White Plains as well as Downtown Greensboro.The classic barbecue sandwich was named one of Explore Georgia's 100 plates locals love, so it is definitely worth the stop to grab a sandwich for yourself! Holcomb’s BBQ is a local favorite and always a great spot to bring family and friends for some fantastic barbecue. While there, be sure to treat yourself to some Brunswick stew and a big glass of sweet tea. The restaurant is open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The Ritz (Georgia’s Backyard BBQ)

Through June and July, The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee is hosting a Backyard BBQ at Georgia’s on Sunday nights. The cost to attend this event is $55 for adults, $35 for children ages 4-12, and children under the age of 3 are free. You will get to enjoy tasty meat right off the grill paired with veggies and fresh herbs straight from the garden. Everything is served family-style with salads and appetizers specially made for each table. It will be a great experience, so come out and enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner at the Ritz! Seating is from 6 to 9 p.m.

Madison

Big Kev's BBQ in Madison, Georgia
Big Kev's BBQ in Madison, Georgia

Big Kev’s BBQ

Big Kev’s BBQ is a great place to stop in for a bite to eat as they serve pulled pork, chicken, catfish and ribs. They also offer a wide variety of Southern side dishes from collard greens to coleslaw, so there is something for everyone. Don’t forget to try the signature barbecue sauce that’s been teasin’ taste buds for years! The restaurant is open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday.

Third Annual Southern Classic BBQ Competition

The Third Annual Southern Classic® BBQ Competition will be held this summer on Aug. 24, 2019. The event will be held at Farmview Market from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and contestants will have the opportunity to sample chicken, pork ribs and more! Barbecue meals will be available for purchase. There will be live music, activities, kids crafts and more that you won't want to miss! This event will be lots of fun for all ages, so make sure you buy your tickets. General admission for the event is free.

Published: July 2019
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