Sweet Auburn Barbecue BBQ Joey Stallings Sweet Auburn Barbecue

Sweet Auburn Barbecue Awards

Asian meets its Southern soul and its Mexican soul mate at Sweet Auburn.
Openings: Lunch & Dinner daily
Sweet Auburn Barbecue, Atlanta, GA


Sweet Auburn Barbecue Restaurant Review:


Sweet Auburn fills the space where Pura Vida once offered imaginative tapas. A stylish rusticity now defines the décor, and Southern barbecue forms the foundation of the distinctive cooking. Owner Howard Hsu grew up in the restaurant business in the South, so he understands the synergy between Asian and Southern food and between Asian and Mexican. So why not fill wontons with pimento cheese? These "buns" come with pork belly but then trim out with hoisin sauce and Asian slaw on yeast rolls. Texas-style beef brisket may be our "go to" favorite, as it's sweet, tender and juicy. But when feeling adventurous, the "Southern Seoul" plate with Korean-style short rib and pickled daikon has a lot to recommend it. Or get a combo as a taco plate with pulled pork, Korean short rib and brisket. For dessert, High Road ice cream is available in abundance, and adorns the bourbon pecan pie. But then there's banana puddin'. A serious chef, Atlantan Joey Stallings keeps the kitchen on an even keel as he balances all these flavors. Quaff a beer. This success story started with a food truck (still running for catered events), then proceeded to Sweet Auburn Curb Market (209 Edgewood Ave. SE, 404-589-9722) before opening on Highland Avenue.