October 31st, 2010

Smokin Pig, Bar-B-Q Joint, I-95, Exit 87, Richmond Hill, Georgia, Best Barbecue, Snow Birds Take Notice

“It’s all About the Taste…!!

There is barbecue and then there is Bar-B-Q.  I found it on Exit 87, again on I-95, in Georgia.  I don’t like it saucey.  I like to see the meat; sauces on the side.

There was a sign on a billboard and we went to see what this place was all about.  Oh, no, it was Monday and the Smokin Pig was closed. 

You see, this Bar-B-Q Joint is next to Chu’s Amoco on 3986 Highway 17 (Exit 87), Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324.  Tel. 912-756-7850.  Hours of operation are:  Sundays 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., closed Mondays, Tuesdays to Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.  You can dine in or carry out.  Website is www.smokinpigbbqjoint.com and you can find them on Facebook, as well.

There was a man sitting on a bench who proceeded to tell us that the Smokin Pig was the best place around.  That people line up; that there was another barbecue place 5 miles up the road but could not compare to this one.  In the meantime, we are looking at the “closed” sign on the door and salivating at the same time.

We would have to catch them on the way back.   I was now curious to find out how good it could be.

This past Friday we had the opportunity to check the Smokin Pig out.  It did not dissapoint and it was worth the stop.  Already it was crowded. 

Even though it is located next to a gas station, the place was colorful inside and tables and benches are available if you want to dine in.  A board spells out what they have to offer.

That man that we encountered before was so right; it was the best Bar-B-Q that I had ever tasted. 

The best barbecue comes from the South and the meat used is pork, primarily ribs, shoulders and hams.  For true Georgia barbecue, the meat should be cooked over wood, charcoal or wood pellets.

I ordered the baby backs with potato salad and cole slaw.  The smoking was superb and not an ounce of grease was found.  The meat fell off the bones; tender and juicy.

My husband ordered the combination with the baby backs and shredded pork with 2 sides; baked beans (to die for) and buttery green beans that were delicious, as well.

Sauces were on the table and I tried them all.  My favorite?  The Spicy Vinegar.

Then for the sweet ending I had the banana “puddin”.  I had to order it, afterall, I was in Georgia.  Not overly sweet, right amount of bread and right amount of “puddin”.

Even though we had the platters, the Smokin Pig offers sandwiches, sides, extras, and barbecue by the pound.  They also have catering available.

If you want Boston Butts by the pound then you would have to give them 24 hours notice.

The owners of the Smokin Pig are Clyde and Kevin.  They were not there but his staff was very friendly.  It is a family operated business and another location is in Pooler, Georgia.

Note:  If you decide to stop and believe me, you should, then upon taking that Exit 87 in Georgia whether going North or South ,just turn right and it will be on your left a little bit up the road.

Talk to you later….