Daddy D’z is a hole in the wall barbecue joynt near the Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta, Georgia.
Having worked in one of those BBQ spots myself in Memphis, I wanted to try and appreciate what Atlanta could provide while here for Thanksgiving.
Parking was quite simple. I doubt the lot has been paved over in a long time. There were faded lines and possibly a pot hole somewhere — though I likely imagined that. It’s a worn down plot of land near downtown Atlanta, so it’s quaint.
But, as their About section proclaims on the website, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Maybe it looks ugly on the outside. So what? It’s just character.
The first room is lined with booths and a storage area covered up by some checkered curtains. That’s a polite Southern way of stating “Don’t go in here, please. You ain’t allowed back here.” I walked past a group of guys rambling on about nothing and having a good time and walked up to the small counter. There was enough space for the kiosk and a conversation. I decided to take the food on the run because my chauffeur (ahem, cousin) was driving me around to a bunch of different record stores. Another article for another story.
I kept it simple and got a pork sandwich plate on Texas toast with fried okra and Mac & cheese. I know, I know: carbo overload! And the day after Thanksgiving, too. As soon as I get back to Memphis I’ll grab some barbells and hoof it down the sidewalk for days. But in the mean time, let me tell you how good it felt.
I have family that loves to describe what Soul Food is and what it does for you. Let me tell you, this meal was soul food.
First of all, the pork was as good as any in Memphis. No, I’m not comparing it like we do Memphis vs. Nashville. I believe this meat is cooked slowly and carefully and with love. It had the perfect temperature and practically melted in my mouth. The sauce was just right; definitely not bland at all like some sauces can be, though doesn’t pack a punch like some Memphis BBQ restaurants do. And that’s fine, maybe their sauce is just their to compliment the pork. The Texas toast had crispy edges, which made it easier to hold onto the sandwich and easier to dip the edges into sauce.
The Mac wasn’t drowning in cheese like I’m used to in Memphis. The only seasoning I think they use is pepper. Quite different than what I’m used to. But this was a welcomed change. Those small half circle shells had just enough cheese to call it delicious.
Finally, we arrive to fried okra. That’s a bit of a staple in Memphis, but not when it comes to most BBQ restaurants. Sure, you might find it at one or two, but did not expect okra at this spot. I don’t have much to say beyond it needing salt. Otherwise, it was pretty good.
Daddy D’s appears to be an established part of Atlanta and I hope it sticks around for years to come. With a welcoming atmosphere and enough room for food and conversation, what’s not to like about the place? The only catch I’d point out is the wait time. Much like some BBQ joints in Memphis, you can’t rush perfection. If you gotta be somewhere in five minutes, try dinner.
You gotta try this joynt out!
You can sit at their table on 264 Memorial Drive SE, Atlanta GA 30312
If ya gotta call’em: 404.222.0206