Southern Byways

Growing up in the South, I was taught there are certain things that you don’t talk about, such as religion, politics, college football teams and barbecue, with company unless you really want to provoke them. Everyone has their strong opinions on each topic, and it’s not worth trying to get them to see your side.

That said, when it comes to barbecue, it’s as varied as the South itself. What you find in Austin, Texas, you won’t find in Memphis, Tenn. What you find in Memphis, Tenn., you won’t find in Chapel Hill, N.C. What you find in Chapel Hill, N.C., you won’t in Tuscaloosa, Ala. You get the idea.

Exactly what’s in Tuscaloosa when it comes to all things ‘Q? Here’s a sampling that will get your mouth watering. So, tie a bib on and get ready to use those wet wipes.

Well, if you are familiar with the area, you probably all ready know about Dreamland BBQ. Celebrating its 50th year, Dreamland started as your basic barbecue shack off Jug Factory Road. Serving ribs and white bread, I can remember them closing on home football games when they ran out of ribs. Today, Dreamland doesn’t have to worry about running out anymore. There are numerous locations in Alabama, and even some in Georgia. Now, not only can you order the famous ribs ($18.50 for cut and whole slab/$9.95 for 1/2 slab), but also sausage ($11.50 full/$5.95 1/2 order), and Brunswick stew ($4.99 pint/$2.95 half pint). Even better, you can enjoy Dreamland at home by ordering it online.

Let me personally recommend the BBQ turkey sandwich ($3.79 regular/$4.99 large) at Full Moon Bar-B-Que. It’s spicy and has the right amount of sauce on it, which for me is a lot. They offer a full menu, including beef brisket ($8.99) -something that’s unique for this area. There’s a BBQ chicken plate ($4.99 for 1/4 dark; $7.99 for 1/4 white; $8.99 for 1/2 chicken) and even a catfish platter ($9.99). You can get baby back ribs ($11.99) or a rib plate ($11.99). Treat yourself to some of their signature cookies or a slice of homemade pie.

To get to Archibald’s, you need to know your way around Northport. Located off MLK Blvd., if you are able to find it on your first try, congratulations. Even if you have to back track and/or take the easy way out and call for directions, you’ll be glad you did. Many people rank Archibald’s as one of their favorite barbecue places in the city. During home games, the parking lot is usually filled. You really don’t eat in here, you order and go. Think low-key, no frills type of place.  Many will tell you the food speaks for itself. The menu includes a slab ($16.50), a pork sandwich ($4.95), and a pound of ribs ($8.50).

I first tried Bottomfeeders during The Ketuck Festival, which also happened to be  the Ole Miss vs Alabama game weekend a few years ago. Needless to say, we didn’t win the game, but my meal at provided the much needed solace. Their menu features a Pigs Combo Plate that include three meats of your choice ($10.99), BBQ chicken plate ($6.75), and pulled pork sandwich ($3.69 small/$4.29 large). There’s also a good selection of catfish dishes, as well as stuffed baked potatoes.

Photo credits: (top left) Dreamland BBQ (original), flickr, creative commons by by ken-ichi; (top right) Dreamland BBQ in Northport, personal photo; (bottom left) Archibald’s, personal photo; (bottom right) Archibald’s, personal photo.

Apryl Chapman Thomas