Why Locals Love Buddy’s bar-b-q
Buddy’s Bar-B-Q, nestled conveniently at 1718 Decatur Pike in Athens, Tennessee, serves up classic Southern barbecue with heartfelt authenticity. This local barbecue restaurant is a haven for lovers of smoky, tender meats and homestyle sides, offering a menu that showcases the best of Tennessee’s beloved barbecue traditions.
Step inside Buddy’s Bar-B-Q, and you'll instantly feel the warm, inviting atmosphere—the kind that makes you want to pull up a chair and linger over a plate of ribs and comfort food. The aroma alone is enough to ignite your appetite, as one satisfied customer, Doug Shipley, described tracing the "delicious aroma" to this very spot and becoming an enthusiastic regular.
When it comes to the cuisine, Buddy’s knows how to deliver flavor in every bite. From the perfectly sliced brisket, praised for its tenderness and ease of eating, to the ribs—though a few customers noted some inconsistency in preparation—the overall barbecued meats burst with that smoky, savory goodness you crave. The baked beans also stand out as a well-loved side, complementing the meats with a subtle sweetness and hearty texture.
Beyond the mains, Buddy’s offers thoughtful extras that round out the meal. The refreshing "mint" milkshake has sparked interesting conversation among patrons: Rick Hill enjoyed the winter mint milkshake for its smooth creaminess with just the right balance of mint and chocolate, though Lindsey Davidson Nguyen found it less minty than expected. Still, the house Coke has charmed many, delivering that nostalgic, fizzy satisfaction that pairs perfectly with barbecue.
The welcoming service and family vibe add to Buddy’s charm. Guests consistently mention the friendly staff who make everyone feel "like family," contributing to a dining experience that’s as comfortable as it is flavorful. Accessibility is also well taken care of, with wheelchair-friendly entry and ample free parking surrounding the establishment for easy visits.
Whether you're stopping off near the interstate or a local craving a dependable plate, Buddy’s Bar-B-Q offers a down-to-earth atmosphere where good food and warm hospitality come together beautifully. If smoky ribs, tender brisket, and classic Southern sides are what you’re after, Buddy’s promises a satisfying experience that stays true to its roots while welcoming all who walk through its doors.
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- No-contact delivery
- Delivery
- Drive-through
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Great tea selection
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Assistive hearing loop
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
- Toilet
- Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Casual
- Cosy
- Quiet
- Trendy
- Family friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
- Transgender safe space
- University students
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Parking
- Dogs allowed outside
Real Reviews from the Community
- Feb 26, 2026
The food has always been decent. The"mint" shake i got was not very minty at all, but it's not Baskin Robbins, so I don't really think it's fair to complain. The BBQ is good and their coke is delicious.
- Feb 11, 2026
Normally the ribs are good i order them like 4 times every 2 weeks but the past 2 plates I got just s few days apart the ribs are not done or done to much where they use to fall off the bone you have to fight to get it off the bone
- Feb 7, 2026
I actually was in a nearby shopping center and smelled a delicious aroma that l traced like a bloodhound to buddy’s barbecue. I had never eaten here before but definitely will be a repeat customer. From the friendly service to the delicious food, I am sold! And l had the daily special which consisted of a pork plate and two sides with a drink included all for less than ten dollars. I spend more than ten dollars at McDonald’s and this barbecue is WAY BETTER!
- Feb 5, 2026
My #1 Bar-B-Q place in Athens. Always receive great service and good BBQ flavors. Great tasting bar-b-q which is priced right in a nice atmosphere. Plenty of free parking all around. Wheelchair friendly at the front door with a slight upward ramp from the parking lot.
- Feb 1, 2026
Brisket was perfect — sliced thin and easy to eat. Baked beans were good, too. The new winter mint milkshake was delicious — smooth and creamy, not too much mint or chocolate. The folks at Buddy’s BBQ off the interstate in Athens, Tennessee, made us feel like family.
- Jan 26, 2026
Don't be deceived--Buddy's may look like a fast food chain, but their food doesn't reflect it! I ordered a half-chicken meal with potato salad and coleslaw, and pulled pork dinner with green beans and baked beans. Both meals came with hushpuppies! Oh it was quality and delicious!! Coleslaw was fresh, crunchy, and not too sweet or savory. Super kind front of the house and a clean dining area.
- Nov 27, 2025
I ordered a hot fudge cake and my cup is only half full. This is supposed to be a regular size. And yes I do stir it up before I eat it.
- Nov 24, 2025
I visit Buddy's Bar-B-Q weekly for the best pulled pork, BBQ chicken, and brisket in Athens, Tennessee. I vary my visits between drive-thru and dine-in. The drive-thru line usually moves quickly. Dining in is always a pleasure as well. There's always ample seating, the tables and chairs are clean, and the staff keep the restaurant clean. Prices are reasonable, and the food is fantastic. I have never left here feeling like I didn't get enough to eat.
