Field Trip Friday Visits Ralph, Alabama for Some Legendary BBQ

Over the summer, we asked you to let us know your favorite Tuscaloosa County Alabama BBQ spots on Facebook. The results had the Bite This! Crew hungry for more.

Read More: Bite This! Tastes Its Way Through BBQ in Tuscaloosa County

Coming in tied for #3 was Robertson’s BBQ and Catering located at 17099 Ralph Loop Road in Ralph, Alabama.

As a typical foodie with some spare time, I took the drive from Tuscaloosa to Ralph. It was extremely peaceful and around 20 minutes (give or take).

The first step in, and you get the immediate impression that it is local and gives you a sense of hometown. This is the spot where either everyone knows each other or is super friendly to the newcomers.

It was packed with customers with BBQ smiles on their faces or folks waiting on their to-go orders.

The menu is tapped up at the order station but I always ask for the most popular item. The gentleman who waited on me quickly replied it was either the BBQ plate or the Cheeseburger.

Read More: Alabama’s Smokin’ its Way to the South’s Top Barbecue Hit List

There were about 6 to 7 tables but it was packed, so I got the friendly gesture to sit alongside another couple at the longer table. Along with some small chit-chat they left out with their bellies full.

As you wait you can peruse Robertson’s BBQ sauces and convenience store items, like the drink coolers and snacks. Also, there was a TV to catch some of the college football action. (Score)

I can’t lie, I was people watching too.

That all stopped when the meal arrived.

Order:

BBQ plate with coleslaw, baked beans, and for dessert a slice of sweet potato pie.

Taste & Texture

The BBQ pulled pork was succulent, moist, and bursting with taste.

Robertson’s BBQ sauce paired well with the melt-in-your-mouth meat. The sauce was not too sweet nor spicy but very savory. (Now, I wish I bought a bottle)

The coleslaw was uniquely enjoyable with a surprisingly crunchy texture.

The baked beans were pretty good, but personally, I prefer them to be thicker and creamier.

Full disclosure, I’m a sweet potato and pumpkin pie snob.

The slice of sweet potato pie was really good. Each bite revealed a perfect blend of sweetness and spice.

Value:

For the BBQ plate, sides, beverage, and dessert, everything was priced below $20.

Overall:

I genuinely appreciated the warm Southern hospitality and the delightful meal. I'm eagerly looking forward to returning and giving their cheeseburger a try.