Southern Soul BBQ - A Georgia Barbecue Story

You see, this isn't just any barbecue joint; it has a reputation that reaches far beyond its local roots on Saint Simons Island, actually. People from all over have heard about what they do here, and there's a good reason for that. They've built something special, a kind of food experience that really connects with people, and it’s very much about the taste, of course. Their way of making food has gotten them a lot of notice, appearing in magazines and on television programs, which is quite something, you know.

From a small start with just a backyard smoker, Southern Soul BBQ has grown into a name recognized for its commitment to flavor and its warm, welcoming feel. It's a place where the simple act of eating barbecue turns into a memorable event, full of tasty dishes and a friendly atmosphere. This spot, really, offers a whole lot more than just a meal; it offers a bit of the South, made with a lot of heart, and that's the honest truth.

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Table of Contents

• The People Behind Southern Soul BBQ
• What Makes Southern Soul BBQ So Special?
• How Did Southern Soul BBQ Get Its Start?
• Where Can You Find Southern Soul BBQ Goodness?
• Beyond the Plate - Southern Soul BBQ's Reach
• Does Southern Soul BBQ Offer Catering?
• Visiting Southern Soul BBQ - What to Expect
• The Heart of Southern Soul BBQ - Community Connection

The People Behind Southern Soul BBQ

The story of Southern Soul BBQ, like many great food places, really starts with the folks who poured their hearts into it. Harrison Sapp and Griffin Bufkin are the two individuals credited with bringing this vision to life. They began this venture in 2006, and it's pretty inspiring to think about how it all came together from such a modest beginning. It was just a simple idea, really, that grew into something quite significant, and that is a testament to their dedication, of course.

They started with a very small amount of money, just about $700, and a backyard smoker. That’s how humble the origins of Southern Soul BBQ were, which is kind of amazing when you consider where they are today. It shows that with a bit of passion and a good idea, you can really build something lasting. Their journey, you know, has been one of hard work and a clear focus on creating excellent food, which is pretty much what everyone looks for.

It’s worth noting that their path wasn’t always smooth. In 2010, the restaurant faced a pretty big challenge when a fire happened. This kind of event could have stopped many businesses in their tracks, but for Southern Soul BBQ, it became a part of their story of resilience. They pushed through it, rebuilding and coming back even stronger, which is a really inspiring thing to hear about, honestly.

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Personal Details - Harrison Sapp & Griffin Bufkin (Founders of Southern Soul BBQ)

What Makes Southern Soul BBQ So Special?

When you ask what truly sets Southern Soul BBQ apart, it really comes down to the food itself, and the care that goes into preparing it. People talk about the taste, and for good reason. For instance, their catfish, it’s apparently fried and seasoned in a way that just hits all the right notes. It's not just fried; it’s done so that it tastes just right, every time, which is pretty important for a dish like that, you know.

Then there are the sides, which often get just as much praise as the main dishes. The mac and cheese, for example, and the greens, they are also really good, according to many who have tried them. These are classic Southern comfort foods, and Southern Soul BBQ seems to have a knack for making them taste like they should, like home cooking, in a way. It’s the kind of food that makes you feel good, which is a big part of the experience, honestly.

And let's talk about the ribs, because they are a bit of a signature item for Southern Soul BBQ. They like their ribs sweet, and they mean sweet, apparently. Guy Fieri, a well-known food personality, even learned firsthand what this means. Each rib gets a generous coating of brown sugar and tupelo honey, which creates a flavor that’s pretty distinct. This method gives the ribs a taste that’s both rich and sweet, making them a memorable part of the meal, and that’s a pretty unique approach, so it is.

How Did Southern Soul BBQ Get Its Start?

The story of how Southern Soul BBQ began is pretty interesting, actually. It all started back in 2006, with Harrison Sapp and Griffin Bufkin. They didn’t begin with a huge restaurant or a big investment, you know. Instead, they kicked things off with just $700 and a simple backyard smoker. It’s a very humble beginning for a place that would eventually gain so much attention, which is quite something to consider.

From those modest roots, Southern Soul BBQ slowly but surely started to build a name for itself. It wasn't an overnight success, but rather a steady growth fueled by good food and a commitment to their craft. They put in the work, and over time, their reputation began to spread, first locally, then further afield, which is how these things often go, in a way.

A significant part of their story, one that truly shows their spirit, is what happened in 2010. The restaurant experienced a fire, which could have been a devastating blow. But instead of giving up, they used it as an opportunity to rebuild and come back stronger. This resilience helped them not only survive but also to eventually become a place of national fame, getting features on television shows and in various magazines. It’s a pretty inspiring comeback story, that is.

Where Can You Find Southern Soul BBQ Goodness?

For anyone looking to experience Southern Soul BBQ, the main spot is located on Saint Simons Island, Georgia. It’s a specific kind of place, often described as a "southeast coastal Georgia smoke joint," which gives you a pretty good idea of the vibe. This location is where all the magic happens, where the smells of slow-cooked meat fill the air, and where people gather for some truly comforting food, you know.

But even if you can’t make it to Saint Simons Island, there are still ways to get a taste of Southern Soul BBQ. They offer direct mail order for their sauces and rubs, which means you can bring a bit of their flavor right into your own kitchen. This is a pretty convenient option for those who live far away but still want to enjoy some of what makes their food special, so it's a good thing they do that.

And of course, for those who are local or visiting the area, stopping by the actual restaurant is the best way to get the full experience. It’s a place that has seen a lot of visitors, with many people checking in and sharing their enjoyment online. The physical location is where you can really soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the food fresh, which is pretty much what you want from a barbecue spot, isn't it?

Beyond the Plate - Southern Soul BBQ's Reach

Southern Soul BBQ has grown far beyond just being a local favorite. Their story and their food have caught the eye of national media, bringing them a level of fame that many small restaurants only dream of, actually. They've been featured on television shows and in magazines, which really helped spread the word about what they do on Saint Simons Island, and that’s a big deal, you know.

This kind of exposure means that people across the country, and perhaps even further, have learned about their unique approach to barbecue. It’s not every day that a local smoke joint becomes so widely recognized. Their appearance on shows, like those where Guy Fieri tasted their food, truly put them on the map for a lot of folks who might not have heard of them otherwise, which is pretty cool, in a way.

The fact that they've gained this national recognition speaks volumes about the quality of their food and the compelling nature of their story. From a backyard smoker to being one of the most famous barbecue joints, it’s a journey that resonates with many. It shows that passion and good cooking can really take you places, and that’s a pretty inspiring thought, honestly.

Does Southern Soul BBQ Offer Catering?

Yes, Southern Soul BBQ does offer catering services, and it's something they put a lot of effort into. Their catering arm, Southern Soul Catering & BBQ, aims to bring their refined classic cuisine and excellent service to various events, whether it’s in people's homes or at different venues. This means you can have their delicious food for your own gatherings, which is a pretty convenient option for parties or special occasions, of course.

When it comes to their catering, they focus on creating dishes that are both tasty and visually appealing. They make sure to use only the freshest ingredients, which is pretty important for good food. The emphasis is on taste and a style that makes the food look as good as it tastes, so that is something they really pay attention to. It’s about making sure every dish served through their catering is up to their usual high standards, you know.

So, whether you're planning a big event or a smaller get-together, Southern Soul BBQ can provide a spread that’s sure to impress your guests. They aim to deliver the same quality and flavor that you’d find at their restaurant, ensuring that your catered meal is a memorable one. It’s a good way to share their barbecue goodness with a larger group, and that’s pretty much what catering is all about, isn't it?

Visiting Southern Soul BBQ - What to Expect

If you're thinking about visiting Southern Soul BBQ, you'll find that they are open daily, usually from 11 in the morning until 8 at night. This gives you a good window to stop by for lunch or dinner. You have a few choices for getting your food, too. You can order online for pickup, which is a convenient way to get your meal ready for you, or you can visit their marker bar and smoke shop directly, which is a good option if you want to browse or just pick up something quickly, of course.

When you get there, you'll find a variety of barbecue options and sandwiches. They have a menu that offers different choices, so there’s likely something for everyone. And it’s worth checking out their catering and weekly specials options, as they often have unique items or deals available. Ordering direct is usually the best way to get good prices and service, which is something many people appreciate, you know.

People who have visited Southern Soul BBQ often share their thoughts online. For instance, on TripAdvisor, they have a really good rating, about 4.6 out of 5, from over 2,800 reviews, which puts them pretty high up on the list of restaurants in Saint Simons Island, actually. This kind of feedback suggests that many diners have had very positive experiences there, so that's a good sign, isn't it?

The Heart of Southern Soul BBQ - Community Connection

Southern Soul BBQ isn't just a place that serves food; it's also a spot that seems to have a real connection with its community. You can see this in the numbers, like the fact that they have tens of thousands of likes on social media and a significant number of people talking about them online. And a lot of folks have checked in, showing they've been there, which is a good indicator of how popular the place is, you know.

Being known as a "southeast coastal Georgia smoke joint" also points to this deep community tie. It’s a description that suggests a local, authentic feel, a place where people from the area gather and feel at home. This kind of connection is pretty important for a restaurant, as it helps build a loyal following and makes the place feel like a true part of the community, which is really what you want, isn't it?

The way people talk about Southern Soul BBQ, the reviews they leave, and the sheer number of visitors all point to a place that has truly become a local landmark. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering spot, a place where memories are made over plates of delicious barbecue. This strong community presence is a big part of what makes Southern Soul BBQ so special, and that’s pretty clear to see, of course.

This article has explored Southern Soul BBQ, covering its origins with founders Harrison Sapp and Griffin Bufkin, their initial investment, and overcoming challenges like the 2010 fire. We looked at what makes their food special, from perfectly seasoned catfish and good mac and cheese to their signature sweet ribs coated in brown sugar and tupelo honey, which Guy Fieri experienced. The article also touched on their location on Saint Simons Island, options for ordering online or direct mail order for sauces and rubs, and their catering services that bring refined classic cuisine to various events. Finally, we discussed their national recognition through TV shows and magazines, and their strong community connection, evidenced by online engagement and positive reviews.