On Dec. 8, 2025, smokehouse Lewis Barbecue is firing up its newest location on the Atlanta BeltLine's Northeast Trail at Ansley Mall, owned by Selig Enterprises, in Atlanta, Ga.

A grand opening and "rib pull" ceremony will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 8. Ansley Mall's new BeltLine pedestrian bridge, opening Dec. 1, creates a "bridge to barbecue" and directly connects the Northeast Trail to Lewis Barbecue Atlanta. This event is free and open to the public.

For nearly a decade, Lewis Barbecue has built a cult following for its award-winning USDA Prime beef brisket, beef ribs, pork ribs, pulled pork, turkey and "Texas hot guts" sausage, all smoked low and slow over Texas oak in pits custom-designed by founder and pitmaster John Lewis himself. Lewis' signature sides include Hatch green chile corn pudding, beef tallow fries, mac and cheese and collard greens, and for dessert, a selection of scratch-made icebox pies. 

"We smoke our meats for 18 hours in our custom-built pits because we believe barbecue is all about patience. But, Atlanta, you've waited long enough to indulge—it's salvation time," said Lewis, who searched for years for the perfect spot in one of the country's top food cities. "We cannot wait to share our authentic Central-Texas approach to barbecue right in the heart of ATL."

The Atlanta opening comes just weeks after Lewis Barbecue earned a MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand distinction, recognizing the restaurant for its quality and value, validating its laid-back vibe that welcomes all ages and party sizes.

The new 8,000-plus square-foot restaurant with a more than 1,600 square-foot open-air rooftop smokehouse that overlooks the BeltLine also features:

• Lewis's signature service line, where customers watch barbecue experts slice their custom orders and get a free taste of the brisket upon arriving at the counter
• An outdoor walk-up window to order right at the foot of the new BeltLine bridge
• Expansive indoor dining and outdoor courtyard dining to accommodate more than 200 guests
• A bar with craft cocktails and local beers
• A private event space overlooking the BeltLine
• Service seven days a week; hours of operation are Sunday–Monday: 11 a.m.–9 p.m., and Tuesday–Saturday: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

To celebrate smoke, spice, and authentic Central Texas barbecue vibes, Lewis Barbecue has teamed up with barbecue aficionado Kevin Kelly to invite his followers to nominate a barbecue lover who deserves to be the very first customer served at Lewis Barbecue Atlanta. The winner, will join the Lewis team for the opening ceremony, be served the first tray with Lewis' signature meats and sides, receive a $200 Lewis Barbecue gift card along with merchandise and get a VIP experience with Kelly and Lewis. Contest details and entry information are available at @lewisbarbecue and @kevinsbbqjoints on social media.

Source: Lewis Barbecue