Sam's Carry Out BBQ — Restaurant in Valdosta

Before I speak about the tastiest, most amazing barbecue on the planet, I want to mention the man behind the barbecue: Sam. All who enter the building are greeted warmly by the pleasant owner, whose focus is primarily providing a perfect meal for his customers. Clearly, he understands that his business depends on warmth, care, and killer food, and he produces it all. And he has a heart for people. Thank you, Sam! Sam's offerings are the top of the line in authentic smoked and southern sides. His meats are consistently smoky, with perfect blends of seasoning and sauce--never overbearing, always tender! Yeah, sides are part of the meal, but Sam's MAKE the meal! I'm lukewarm on mac n cheese, as there's so much mediocrity in this dish. Sam's is loaded with sharp cheddar, with that nice baked layer of cheese on top. YUM! Potato salad and cole slaw are house made from scratch, and without fancy adornment--just like grandma used to make. I live in Maine, but factor in Sam's every trip when I visit my mother in Valdosta--Sam's gets me there more often! And it's really tough having a hankering for Sam's bbq so far away. I'll be back for more in three weeks! Thank...

My boyfriend and I decided to stop here for the first taste of southern BBQ to kick off our road trip, and Sam’s did not disappoint!

First, we were greeted and offered free samples of all the meats and sides available, something I’ve never experienced at a BBQ joint, but absolutely enjoyed. After tasting and loving EVERYTHING, we decided to buy the sampler platter to share, plus a jar of their delicious homemade Carolina gold BBQ sauce. I honestly regret not getting even more food to go because it was all to die for. The platters included a shareable portion (for at least 2) of ribs, pulled pork, smoked chicken, potato salad, slaw, mac n’ cheese, and baked beans… I may have forgotten something, but honestly I was just happy to be there.

The service was excellent, but keep in mind, this is definitely a food-focused place, and “carry-out” is in the name, so don’t expect a sit down place. This is very much a grab n’ go operation even though there is a table or two inside, which we utilized because we didn’t want to eat in the car.

All in all, we will always remember Sam’s fondly as the kickoff to our 2025 Southern BBQ tour....

With all the great reviews, I'm gonna say maybe I just caught them on a bad day. First, the old man doing the grilling out front just stood against the wall and looked at us weird, not saying a word as we walked up. A "Hello" or "Welcome" would've been better than strange looks. This already made me want to leave, but I had already driven so far to try this "popular" BBQ spot out. Once inside, my disappointment continued because they had no brisket, which I was told they serve😔The counter attendant told me I have to call and order it at least a day in advance. Ok noted✔ So then I decided to try the chicken. It was cold and dry. My son had ribs, which he says was good, but I wouldn't know because I don't eat pork. Speaking of... I also ordered baked beans... which turned out to be PORK & BEANS with ground meat in, so that was a waste too! I will say the guy at the counter was very nice and helpful when it came to answering any questions I had. And my son liked the ribs. That's enough to say I'll give them another shot one day... but I will be sure to call ahead and order my...