Quest for the Best
Hattiesburg, Mississippi’s a city known for its rich cultural tapestry and Southern charm, it’s also home to some of the most mouth-watering barbecue joints in the Pine Belt Region. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the quest for the best BBQ can lead you to some hidden gems where the aroma of smoked meats is as inviting as the warm, Southern hospitality.
Nestled in the heart of Mississippi, Leatha’s BBQ in Hattiesburg has become a beacon of southern comfort food and a testament to the enduring legacy of family-run businesses. The story of Leatha’s BBQ is one of passion, dedication, and the irresistible allure of homemade smoky, savory flavors that have captivated the taste buds of locals and travelers alike. The late Leatha Jackson, known affectionately as the “Queen of BBQ,” started her culinary journey in the 1970s in the small town of Foxworth. Her reputation for crafting mouthwatering Southern barbecue quickly spread, leading to the establishment’s move to Hattiesburg in 2000, and later to Petal in 2020. Despite the changes in location, the essence of Leatha’s BBQ remained unchanged: a place where ribs, briskets, pulled pork or chicken wings is steeped in tradition and served with a generous side of love. You have to try it to understand why we drink the sauce like soup!
Address:
1225 MS-42, Petal, MS 39465
Hours:
Sun-Mon: Closed
Tuesday-Saturday: 11 am-8 pm
Located in the corridor of downtown directly across from the Hattiesburg Zoo, this award-winning spot is known for its Mississippi Pecan Smoked BBQ and live music. Their smoked chicken and beef can be smelled long before you enter the door. Murky Waters represent BBQ that can only be found in the hot summers of South Mississippi. Enjoy the outdoor patio while devouring those delicious burnt ends and ribs, but get there early because once those burnt ends are gone, they’re gone. Finger licking, sweet, southern sauces and flavors add a unique touch to every dish. Come enjoy live music and great beer, paired with tasty BBQ at one of Hattiesburg’s premier BBQ joints.
Address:
1605 Hardy St #4908, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Hours:
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 11am-9pm
Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 11am-10pm
If you love really good BBQ then Strick’s is a must-visit for BBQ enthusiasts. Strick’s BBQ stands as a beacon of Southern culinary tradition. Strick’s provides a family-friendly vibe and tender, juicy, smoked meats! This family-owned and operated establishment has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue since 1980, and it’s not hard to see why it’s been crowned the best BBQ in the ‘Burg and earned the People’s Choice accolade. Served up alongside their mouthwatering barbecue are mouthwatering sides such as potato salad, baked beans, and fried okra to name a few. Whether you’re eating with a friend or need catering for hundreds of friends, don’t say you’ve eaten BBQ from Hattiesburg until you’ve eaten Strick’s!
Address:
3802 W 4th St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401
Hours:
Sunday-Monday: Closed
Tuesday-Wednesday: 11am-6pm
Thursday-Saturday: 11am-8pm
When it comes to finding the best BBQ in Hattiesburg one name often comes to mind: Dickey’s Barbecue Pit. Located across from the Turtle Creek Mall in West Hattiesburg, Dickey’s has been serving up hot pit-smoked meats daily, winning the hearts of locals and visitors alike with its authentic Texas-style barbecue. Dickey’s prides itself on the traditional methods of slow-smoking their meats on-site every night. Certified Pitmasters ensure that every slice of brisket, every rib, and every piece of chicken is cooked to perfection, embodying the true essence of Southern BBQ culture .From their fall-off-the-bone ribs to the juicy and flavorful brisket, each dish is a celebration of taste and tradition. And let’s not forget the sides – the mac and cheese and fried okra are just a few of the crowd-pleasers that perfectly complement the smoky flavors of the meats. Whether you’re a BBQ aficionado or a curious newcomer, Dickey’s is sure to leave a lasting impression with its delicious food and Southern hospitality. Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is waiting to serve you the best of Texas right here in Mississippi.
Address:
50 Cross Creek Pkwy, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
Hours:
Sunday-Saturday: 11am-9pm
Get Saucy!
No matter where your BBQ journey takes you in Hattiesburg, you’re sure to find a spot that satisfies your cravings for smoky, savory, and succulent meats. Each restaurant has its own unique flair and specialties, making the city a true Barbecue Haven. So, next time you’re in the mood for some good ole Southern BBQ, Hattiesburg has you covered with options that cater to every taste and preference. Happy eating!
