Southern Soul Barbeque on Demere Road is the barbecue institution of Georgia's Golden Isles, a region better known for its coastal resorts and outdoor recreation than for smoked meat. The restaurant blends traditional wood-pit technique with a Georgia coastal sensibility — most notably in the inclusion of low-country shrimp dishes and shrimp and grits alongside the smoked meats that define the core menu. The pit programme produces pulled pork sandwiches, smoked chicken, ribs, and Brunswick stew — the latter being a regional staple that Southern Soul executes with particular care, slow-cooking the thick tomato-based stew with smoked meats for hours before service. The shrimp additions set Southern Soul apart from inland Georgia barbecue joints, reflecting the coastal context of St. Simons Island and the availability of fresh local shrimp from nearby Georgia waterways. The restaurant is located in a converted building with outdoor garden seating under shade trees that creates a relaxed, summer camp-style atmosphere during warmer months. The house-made banana pudding has become a cult item among regular visitors. Southern Soul does not take reservations; weekend waits of 20 to 40 minutes are typical, with the fastest access available at the 11 AM opening or after the midday rush subsides. The Golden Isles tourism season peaks in summer; visiting in spring or autumn reduces crowds while maintaining the best conditions for outdoor garden dining.
Signature dishes
- Pulled pork sandwich
- Smoked chicken
- Shrimp and grits
- Banana pudding
- Brunswick stew
Good to know
- Known for
- The Golden Isles' most acclaimed BBQ joint; low-country shrimp additions set it apart from inland BBQ; outdoor seating in garden setting
- Hours
- Sun–Thu 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Fri–Sat 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Reservations
- Not accepted; expect 20–40 min waits on weekends
Location
2020 Demere Rd, St. Simons Island, GA 31522
31.1443, -81.3858 View on map
Highlights
- Golden Isles' most acclaimed barbecue: pulled pork, smoked chicken, ribs, and Brunswick stew from a wood-burning pit
- Low-country shrimp and grits alongside the BBQ menu — a coastal Georgia signature unique to Southern Soul
- Garden outdoor seating under shade trees creates a relaxed summer camp-style eating environment
- House-made banana pudding has become a cult dessert item among returning visitors
- Brunswick stew slow-cooked with smoked meats — one of the best versions on the Georgia coast
Tips for visiting
- Arrive at 11 AM opening to avoid the 20–40 minute weekend waits
- Order the Brunswick stew as a side rather than a soup — portions are generous and it complements the smoked meats well
- The shrimp and grits is worth ordering even for dedicated BBQ visitors — it reflects the island's coastal identity
- Spring and autumn visits offer the best conditions for outdoor garden seating without summer crowds
- The banana pudding is made fresh daily and can sell out — order it when seated rather than waiting until after the main
Accessibility
Southern Soul Barbeque has a level entrance and accessible indoor seating area. The outdoor garden area is on generally flat ground and accessible to most wheelchair users, though the surface varies near the edges. Accessible parking spaces are available in the adjacent lot.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Southern Soul Barbeque different from other Georgia BBQ restaurants?
Southern Soul's coastal location on St. Simons Island means its menu incorporates low-country shrimp dishes alongside traditional smoked meats — a coastal Georgia dimension not found at most inland barbecue joints.
Does Southern Soul take reservations?
No. Southern Soul Barbeque is walk-in only. Weekend waits of 20–40 minutes are typical; arriving at the 11 AM opening significantly reduces wait times.
What is Brunswick stew and why is it on the menu?
Brunswick stew is a thick, tomato-based stew loaded with vegetables and smoked meats that is one of Georgia's most traditional dishes. Southern Soul's version is made with its own smoked meats and is considered one of the best on the Georgia coast.
Is St. Simons Island far from Savannah or Atlanta?
St. Simons Island is approximately 85 miles south of Savannah (about 1.5 hours by car) and roughly 4.5 hours from Atlanta. It is part of the Brunswick Golden Isles area in southeastern coastal Georgia.
What are the best times to visit Southern Soul Barbeque?
Spring and autumn offer the best combination of pleasant outdoor dining weather and reduced tourist crowds. Summer is the busiest season; mid-week visits in any season have shorter waits than weekends.