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Fat Matt's Rib Shack
Category: Restaurants Barbeque Barbeque [Edit]
1811 Piedmont Ave NEAtlanta, GA 30324
Neighborhood: Morningside / Lenox Park
(404) 607-1622
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11:30 am - 11:30 pm
Fri-Sat 11:30 am - 12:30 am
Sun 2 pm - 11:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Dive-y, Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
511 reviews for Fat Matt's Rib Shack
Review Highlights
"Their rum baked beans are also delicious."
(in 32 reviews)
"I could eat the Brunswick stew every day."
(in 61 reviews)
"Fall off the bone succulent and down right affordable."
(in 45 reviews)
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511 reviews in English
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Review from Lil S.
Los Angeles, CA
Party in your mouth!! The BBQ here is absolutely AMAZING!! Not too tangy, not too sweet, and not too much BBQ sauce! The ribs are tender and falls off the bone.
sWEET POTATO PIE is a must try! If you don't; you're missing out! After trying it, I bought two whole pies and carried it onto the plane back to LA!
Service is awesome! The people are sssuper sweet! -
Review from Rich G.
Columbia, SC
1/26/2012
Fat Matt's Rib Shack is the sh(beeeeep)! I've lived in Atlanta for about five months but have been going to this place for easily 13 years. It is hands down the best BBQ I've been to anywhere. The menu is simple and relatively reasonable. The accommodations are utilitarian and you shouldn't be afraid to sit with folks you don't know because they offer family-style seating at a few tables (the food is worth it if you have some kind of social phobia). The blues is great when there's live music at night.
They offer three proteins: pork ribs, chicken and pulled pork. You'll enjoy all. Sides are high quality with my favorites being the rum baked beans and coleslaw (and not that liquidy, pre-made kind of garbage. This is good stuff.
Not sure how recent they started taking plastic money, but when I saw that it was like looking at color on the front of The New York Times. It took a moment to adjust to, but change can be a good thing.
One person, without getting a beer, will run you about $8 to $17, depending on the meat you get. Worth every penny. -
Review from Maggie R.
Atlanta, GA
1/25/2012
I was pretty impressed! It was a little too loud inside, but the food was good enough that I'd definitely come back.
My friend and I split a full rack, and got macaroni & cheese and some Brunswick stew. The macaroni gets... 3.5 stars. Good, but not life-changing. As it was my first time having Brunswick stew, I can't really compare it to anything else. It was quite good, though.
The ribs were perfectly prepared... tender enough to come easily off the bone, but they still held themselves together enough to not make a super-big mess. I'm a WASPish little freak, so I eat (almost) everything with a knife and fork... my friend did it hands-on. Neither of us got covered in food. Always a plus. Next time, I think I'll try different sides, but all in all my meal was really really good.
Again with the loudness, though: not my favorite. I don't like having to shout at people when we're having dinner. The space is not really big enough for live music... part of me wishes they wouldn't offer it.
All in all: atmosphere gets a 3.5, food gets a 4. -
Review from Carlos A.
Atlanta, GA
Updated - 2/8/2012
I finally came back to try the ribs and they certainly did not disappoint. The barbecue sauce was tangy and smoky and the meat on the bones was very juicy. We also had the mac-n-cheese which was good but not blow your mind good. I'm glad I live nearby because the food is delicious.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/16/2011
Didn't have an appetite for ribs when I came here but I did have the Pulled Pork Sandwich. It was… Read more »
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Review from Brian K.
1/20/2012
Overhyped and underwhelming. This place is frequently touted as an Atlanta institution, but I guess that isn't surprising considering that the Varsity shares the same dubious distinction. If you're amenable to mediocre food and caustic service in a borderline condemnable environment, then this place is certainly worth your while.
Food: Over-cooked and under-good. During my visit, I ordered the combo, which consisted of a 1/4 chicken and a 1/2 slab of ribs. Although the barbeque sauce served on the side had a nice kick to it, the chicken and ribs were both scorched to oblivion. I also opted for a side of mac n' cheese, which was congealed, ice cold, and an insult to its namesake. Even the two pieces of bread that accompanied the combo were a chewy, flavorless disappointment.
Service: Over-crude and under-friendly. I'm completely disillusioned with the "service with a grudge" mentality that has become increasingly commonplace and acceptable in many Atlanta restaurants, including Fat Matt's. It's called the "hospitality business" for a reason; unless the occasional problem customer justifies you to act otherwise, being hospitable should be the norm.
Atmosphere: Over-cramped and under-welcoming. Although I appreciate that they feature live blues bands, I did not appreciate the management's reluctance to regulate the performers. During my visit, the performer's cronies were peddling her CD and forcibly soliciting tips. It's one thing to have a tip jar at the front of the stage, but to persistently demand tips from each table is awkward and unacceptable.
Cost: Over-priced and under-sold. Meat alone costs $10, while fountain drinks and each additional side are $2 each. You can definitely obtain barbeque of superior quality and quantity elsewhere in the city for lower cost.
Other: The handful of reviewers who have suggested that parking is not a problem are completely delusional. Unless you happen to score one of the half dozen parking spots in front of the restaurant, your only other options are to park illegally or trek in from the hills. -
Review from Trey S.
Best ribs I've ever had! They are juicy, tender, full of sauce and oozing with flavor!
I can honestly say, that being from Charlotte, whenever I get down to Atlanta, I make a special effort to drop bye Fat Matt's each and every time.
My go to is the half-slab of ribs with baked beans and mac-n-cheese. The great thing about Fat Matt's is that it's not one of these BBQ joints that only specializes in one or two things. Their meats from the BBQ to the ribs are excellent. Their sides are awesome as well. There's nothing worse than getting great tasting meat and having the sides let you down. That's not the case here at Fat Matt's. I've never had a bad side here and they are the perfect compliment to whatever you order.
I wouldn't be doing my job as a Yelper if I didn't mention that it can be crowded here, especially on the weekends around lunch time. But trust me, whatever the wait is, it's definitely worth it. Also, seating is limited inside, so depending on the crowd, the best play might be to take your food to go - it tastes just as good at home.
Finally, I would like to mention that Fat Matt's always cranks out the stellar bluesy tunes whether its through the radio or via a live band - they never let you down. You know what that smokey BBQ smell does to your nostrils when you are near or inside a BBQ restaurant? Well the music at Fat Matt's has that same effect on your eardrums - its like the soundtrack for good BBQ.
I've traveled up and down the east coast in search of great BBQ and I have no reservations in saying that Fat Matt's HAS THE BEST RIBS I'VE EVER HAD!!Listed in: Putting the OINK in BBQ
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Review from David O.
1/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I went to Fat Matt's with some friends and overall it was a great experience for the most part.
I ordered and split with my girlfriend:
- Half slab of ribs: Hands down the best tasting ribs I have ever put in my mouth (not that I've put others in my ears and such). Meat was tender and literally fell off the bone. Sauce was perfect and it had that tiny bit of burnt sauce on the corners. This is the reason for the 5 stars and when I go back, I'm only getting ribs.
- Half bird (chicken): This was ok. The chicken was a little drier than I like. It wasn't dried out, just drier than my preference. While I'm glad I tried it, I would only order the ribs next time.
- Rum Baked Beans: These were ok. I would not order them again though.
- Sweet Tea: Excellent and had great small ice pellets.
Another note is that they put two slices of white bread on the plates. I'm not sure why it is just straight out of the bag and not toasted or prepared. I just threw mine on an empty plate and piled the rib bones on them.
Service started off on a bad note in that a guy yelled that we needed to go back out one door and come in the other side. Being our first time there, I was all set to report the service, but after that incident it was better. The cashier was great and personable and the guy that brought out the food was nice as well.
Just note that parking is very tight down here. Seating is also very tight and more crowded than I prefer. If the ribs were not so good, I wouldn't go back.
I would go back. -
Review from Mark M.
Columbus, GA
2/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
the ribs are really tender and the taste is awesome. The beans were pretty good too! The band was a good accompaniment. Be prepared it is a small place and carrying on a conversation while the band was playing was a little difficult, but the food was definitely worth it.
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Review from Jennifer J.
Atlanta, GA
1/11/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Woohoo for Fat Matt's! Fat Matt's offers some yummy bbq sandwiches. I have not had their ribs but I can speak for the pulled pork sandwiches. They have the perfect amount of spice to make it have a little kick but not bland. I do not enjoy burning my tongue off in order to enjoy bbq.
The smell alone will draw you in, so beware. I also suggest arriving before noon in order to get a seat during the week because they can fill up pretty quickly. And on the weekends it's easier to call ahead and just pick it up. You can go to the front of the line and let them know you're there for a pickup while everyone behind you looks at you weird. But do you care? No. Because you will soon be out the door and home enjoying your tasty sandwich. It does get rather loud when a good crowd gathers so don't think you will go during the busy hours and be able to hear the person nearby. Just nod your head in agreement whilst enjoying your bbq. :) -
Review from Greg S.
1/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
A night of firsts in Atlanta led me to Fat Matt's...and it certainly won't be my last visit!
It's a small joint, where you grub down in close proximity to the other patrons. And the menu is simple and to the point, which I really appreciate. This is what they do, and they do it right.
Three of us shared a mess of food: a full slab of ribs, a chopped pork sandwich, and three sides. For some reason I thought this was enough food, when in fact I could have taken down a full slab myself!
The ribs were excellent; fall off the bone and just yummpy. I didn't think I'd enjoy the sandwich as much, but oh boy was it good. Dipped in bbq sauce...outstanding! The sides were also pretty good, the highlight being the collard greens for me.
The service was so friendly and efficient. The food came out lickety-split, and it was devoured in about the same amount of time!
As sad as I am that Fat Matt's is so far away from California where I reside, it's a good thing. I wouldn't like the nickname "Fat Greg" anyways. -
Review from Stephen S.
Marietta, GA
1/9/2012
Phenomenal gut bombing barbeque.
The line wraps around the building like a methadone clinic. This is the real deal.
Their menu reflects only the bare essentials. Ribs, chicken, and pork. The mercenaries of BBQ. The sauce is best described using the words of Marvin Gaye,
"Makes me feel so fine, it's such a rush
Helps to relieve the mind, and it's good for us"
Sexual healing? No, but a close second.
CAUTION: The 'itis' is inevitable. Just embrace it. -
Review from Giselle K.
Irvine, CA
1/17/2012
Ribs and Chicken was flavourful but place is lack of style.
I wish there was more side dishes option and maybe less fat Ribs...
It was an ok meal. -
Review from Grant H.
Sacramento, CA
1/24/2012
I was lucky enough to get turned on to this place by the waiter at the Marriot where I was staying on business in the ATL. I slipped away from work with a couple of friends and headed down for lunch on MLK day 2012. We arrived and were happy to see it looked like a bbq place, not a strip mall.
We walked in the door and saw the large and simple menu on the wall. I placed and order for a 1/2 rack of ribs, bbq beans and collard greens. The other guys all ordered the chopped pork sandwich with various sides.
My ribs showed up and they looked great, not soaked in sauce, just brushed a bit at the end of the smoking.
It was love at first bite. The meat was cooked perfectly, not falling off the bone but close, still firm and meaty but not over done. Nothing dry about this bbq, smoky, succulent and delicious. Right about the time the food showed up the band on the tiny stage playing some blues. I drum machine, guitar and saxophone. The music shuffled on and was a perfect accompaniment to the food. The beans were a bit too sweet for but good. The collard greens were spot on perfect! Absolutely perfect, a bite, some spice, texture, everything was perfect. Now I'll explain why personally didn't give Fatt Matt 5 stars, the dipping sauce. I am in small minority of people that doesn't love the taste of vinegar and the dipping sauce had a lot. It was totally unnecessary to dunk the ribs in sauce but they offer it and I didn't like it. Most people will probably like the sauce just fine but for me it was too tart and didn't compliment the smoked meat or the crispy bits that had caramelized on the edges of the meat.
The ambiance is great in the room with picnic tables, cold beer, sweet tea and live music. Nothing fancy, great food reasonable prices.
Come get some! -
Review from Sarah B.
Atlanta, GA
1/12/2012
Fat Matt's is our go-to rib place in Atlanta. Every single time my dad visits, he wants to takeout from Fat Matt's. Every single time.
Likes: Tasty and wet ribs, awesome baked beans, I love sitting in their outside area. It's casual and fun.
Dislikes: Fairly pricey, as rib places tend to be. I've been there when there is a major line to order stretching outside, so call ahead with your order if you're in a hurry.
Take it or leave it: Take it. Good ribs. A good place to take out. -
Review from Julie N.
Madison, WI
1/26/2012
Great BBQ served quickly in a festive environment. I had stopped by one time and left since there were no open seats. A recent Tuesday evening, my friend and I went and had no problem finding a seat. This place is all about the meat (you get two slices of store bought bread with no butter) and its very good. I got the combo (chicken and ribs) and I actually liked the chicken best despite normally being such a ribs fan. I also got a side of beans which had a surprising, but tasty, spicy tomato flavor. A band started midway through our visit and the music was good, but it was essentially impossible to maintain a conversation. I'll definitely be back if I'm craving some meat and I don't intend to have any conversation or it's nice enough to sit outside.
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Review from Mickey L.
Bethesda, MD
12/7/2011
In my first trip to Atlanta, I had high hopes for Fat Matt's, which I received as a recommendation from a classmate friend and former ATLien. I guess my expectations were elevated considering Fat Matt's location in a major city in the Deep South. While dining companion and I were mildly disappointed, it was still a decent place to fill up and much better than the other local places we tried.
In our two visits there, we had the Pork Ribs, Collard Greens, Sweet Potato and Pecan Pies, and Iced Tea. The ribs were ample and had a nice char on the outside, but the biggest issue was lack of proper fat rendering which made it very greasy and heavy. While the barbecue sauce was a bit sweet for liking (personal preference, I know), having a thick slab of pork fat to peel off was a bit off-putting. Although they are a prepared with a drier finish, Urban Bar-B-Que's (of Maryland -gasp!) are ones we prefer because they are nicely smokey, seasoned, and well-rendered to a clean finish.
The rest of the food at Fat Matt's was alright, although we could find obvious faults. The collards were too salty, which did not help to balance the sweetness of the ribs as much as we hoped. The bread was simple sliced white bread (Wonder Bread?), which was fine, but being in The South, it would have been nicer to have some cornbread (which is an option at Urban Bar-B-Que). The pies were fine, although nothing special--particularly the Pecan variety which was nowhere near the stratosphere of Vidalia's dreamy version.
Although our culinary experience in Atlanta was overall disappointing (except for the ever-reliable Morton's Bar 12-21), Fat Matt's was okay and did not gouge our wallets like Nan Thai Fine Dining or (to a lesser degree) Rathbun's. Fat Matt's satisfied our appetites and provided us some sustenance on our long drive back home, but we learned how amazing the food (including Southern cuisine) is in the DC area. -
Review from Ed L.
1/10/2012
My friend bought me some ribs, mac salad, and cole slaw from Fat Matt's and it was quite a good parting meal before I got on the plane to SF. The ribs were so tender and smoky you don't even need sauce. That being said, a little sauce even kicks it to the next level with that tangy and spicy notes. The sides were quite good too. The mac had tons of real cheese rather than the Velvetta goo. Glad I came home or I would have turned into Fat Ed in the ATL.
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Review from Yisi L.
Atlanta, GA
1/15/2012
Stuff yourself silly -that's what you do at Fat Matt.
I'm a rib person, so you know I mean it. This is the second best rib place, my No.1? Jim's Smokin Que in Blairsville GA.http://www.yelp.com/bi...
I tried ribs, bird, baked beans, potato salad and Brunswick stew(yummy!); recently I'm on diet so I had the pulled pork sandwich, and it was amazing too!
It can be as crowded as a rush hour subway, so be prepared. Last time I came with other 4 people, and we had to seat separately.
They post the band schedule on their website. Fat Matt definitely rocks! -
Review from Sharondia P.
Ellenwood, GA
1/14/2012
Love Fat Matt's!!! It is the best BBQ in Atlanta. Tender, juicy and flavorful. The joint is small, but it packs a punch. Its not a dine in for the claustrophobic, but there is always take out. Enjoyable music, out door seating... It's a great choice for summer dining. I eat in during the summer and take it home in the winter. Spring and Fall, it depends on the weather. Did I say I love this place? Oh, one more thing...if you don't get there at opening time, be prepared to stand in line. Apparently, I'm not the only Fat Matt's lover!!!
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Review from Mike F.
Orange, CA
1/17/2012
Get there early if you dont like to wait in lines. But the wait is worth it. Ribs were perfect. Pulled pork sandwich I'm still dreaming about. Can't wait to get back there this summer. Great to hear live music in the middle of the day too! Staff was nice as could be.
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Review from Gary T.
Updated - 1/5/2012 6 Check-ins Here
This is the first time that I had been back to church (the church of ribs) in awhile and nothings changed, the ribs were just as good as ever. I had some macaroni and cheese this time.....it was actually the first time I've had it ( I think), it's outstanding. When you eat ribs here, be sure to eat them over the plate, the meat comes off the bone real easy and may end up in your lap (like some of mine did today,LOL).
Listed in: My Favorite Rib Joints
8 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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3/24/2011
made our almost weekly pilgrimage with the guys from work here and there hasn't been any let-down in… Read more »
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Review from Helena W.
12/6/2011
Pretty good barbecue. For some reason when I think of barbecue I think of a sweet smokey flavor. Ive only tried the ribs which are HUGE but the sauce has more of a vinegar tart like flavor to it. Its not bad... just different.
The Mac and cheese is yummy!
The Stew is not so great.
We love to have a fight night and splurge, get some yummy barbecue and FM has been our go to place on several occasions. The line... holy crap the line!! Make sure you get there BEFORE 6pm. Its crazy ridiculous. They have live blues on the weekends I think and thats pretty cool. Loud... but cool. -
Review from Hary M.
Milledgeville, GA
1/9/2012
Ive been here twice and both times I've ordered the rib sandwich with macaroni and baked beans. Holy shit, it's good. They give you like a quarter rack a ribs, between two slices of bread. Hardly a sandwich, but just listen. All you do it is pin it down with the fork and pull out the rib bones. They come out like butter. Lather on the sauce, and enjoy. I honestly can't write anymore about it, for fear I may hemorrhage.
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Review from Sue N.
San Francisco, CA
1/16/2012
I came here with a group of 6. The BBQ was simple and delicious. You order at the counter, and lo and behold, the table is filled with delicious BBQ.
We order a couple full racks of ribs, some sides, and the sweet tea. We all left full and satisfied.
Parking is also very convenient here because they have their own lot. -
Review from Jeff L.
11/28/2011
This place is pretty awesome! Honestly, there's not much I can say beyond what ~500 other yelpers have also said, so I'll add my $0.02.
We ended up coming here after picking my wife up from the airport. We've always been on the hunt for good BBQ in the area, so it was really only a matter of time before we ended up coming here. We ended up getting a 1/2 slab of rib and a 1/4 chicken, plus baked beans and brunswick stew.
To start, the ribs were honestly the most fall-off-the-bone tender I've ever had. They were practically falling off the bone when you picked them up. In addition, they were moist (not dried out in the least), and unbelievably flavorful. I think that I make a pretty great rack of ribs, but they pale in comparison to what we had here. I don't know what they do, what spices they use, but whatever it is works.
The chicken was easily as good as the ribs, and might have even been a little better, if that were possible. There was a really nice smokiness, and like the ribs, the chicken was basically falling apart. Like any good chicken, the skin should be the best part and these did not disappoint.
In addition the baked beans were amazing - a bit too sweet, but still among the best I've ever had. The brunswick stew was good, but nothing special. I've definitely had much, much better elsewhere.
Overall, definitely worth a trip if you're in the area, or just looking for some good BBQ! -
Review from Richard R.
Dacula, GA
November 21st, 2011
I've been a fan of Fat Matt's since first arriving in Georgia in '95. I used to come here weekly back in those days, but kinda fell off the radar once I no longer worked nearby. I was in the area today and decided to stop by my favorite Georgia Rib Joint.
It's been about 5 years, but I was surprised and happy to see they now take credit cards!!! Although that didn't really matter since I brought cash. My next surprise was there was absolutely no line. It felt a little weird to walk right in and straight to the counter to place my order. That has never happened before. And my final surprise was more of a disappointment. The chicken and fish shack next door was no longer open for business :-(
For the sake of reviewing, I sampled my meal prior to leaving and taking it home for later consumption. I must say I was a little disappointed with FM ribs for the very first time. They were the usual fall off the bone tender, however, they seemed to be missing something that I can't quite put my finger on. I think it had to do with the meat quality, or perhaps my ribs were overheated and that could account for the strange texture with my 1/2 slab ($10.95). Still better than most, I reluctantly give them a 4 when my taste buds are arguing a 3-star is more appropriate. The Mac and Cheese ($2) was great and so were the collard greens ($1.50). My history has been good here and I hope this was just a case of it being a slow day. -
Review from Olivia L.
11/22/2011
It's been three days since I ate here and I still feel full. Oh ribs, chicken, more ribs, mac n cheese, Brunswick stew, collard greens cooked in bacon fat, bbq sauce with more bbq sauce on top of even more bbq sauce.
Don't forget to bring some tums here. -
Review from Roger M.
Alexandria, VA
12/5/2011
Wow! I went while in Atlanta on business a month ago, then went two more times when I went back last week. I may need to schedule more business trips to Atlanta ... Fat Matt's is pretty d*** good!
Got the ribs and chicken combo and loved it. Chicken was EXTREMELY flavorful, even if slightly inconsistent from one visit to the next. I like their 420 beer (on tap, of course) and enjoyed the sides and sauces. Add to that the fact that the servers are really friendly and attentive, the fact that they have good outdoor seating, and the fact that they have some great blues bands in the evening, and you can't ask for much more. BRAVO! -
Review from Amy C.
Decatur, GA
1/26/2012
I am beating myself for not writing a review about this place sooner. I have gone here probably 1,000,000 times over the course of my 6 year stay in Atlanta. I LOVE this place..and even saying that probably doesn't do justice on how I truly feel. First, whenever I have gone, there is always a live band there, and I love that. Some may say that this place isn't very big, but that's what I think stands about Fat Matt's. I really do enjoy the cozy-ness you feel when you enter this restaurant knowing that the person sitting at the table right next to you is just as obsessed as you are about the food. And let's talk about the star of this review, the food. The bbq is so so so so so so good; it doesn't matter what you have here, it's all yummy for the tummy from their bbq sandwiches to their beans to their mac n cheese to their ribs to their chicken to their desert pies. Trust me when I say this, "you leave satisfied!" SO SO YUMMY. My only complaint is that it's located ONLY in Atlanta and not in every city in the US!
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Review from Liz V.
When I die from lethal injection because I ran over one of the many running pedestrians on Roswell Road, I want my last meal to be Fat Matts.
My first date with my now boyfriend was at this place and while I shy away from wearing food I am eating, how could I resist? The sauce is so good you begin speaking in tongues! The ribs are amazing!! If I could marry them I would. The ribs are not too fatty, have a lot of meat, fall right off the bone and are not greasy at all. I don't really care for the sides but wish they'd make mac n' cheese Southern style but with the word 'rib' in the name, you stick with what they're good at.
I have never liked sweet potato pie until I started coming here and now I can't leave without a slice or two for the ride home.
Fat Matt, if you're a real person, I love you, call me. -
Review from Frank W.
Littleton, CO
12/4/2011
Long wait then hurry up and stuff your face and get out.
cheap roasted meet.. not really a smokey flavor like BBQ should be IMO.
After you get your food, you're on your own....I expected more flavor and quality from an Atlanta rib shack.
Cool that there was a band. -
Review from Caitlin B.
Douglasville, GA
11/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
This place is AMAZE-ING!! Holy shit wow. I have heard about this place on FoodNetork, Travel Channel and from people all over town, but no one can prepare for how great the food is.
I had the rib sandwich - it was moist, juicy, smokey and so delicious. The beans rock my invisible socks off. The boyfriend had the pulled pork sandwich and he loved his too. He's a good ol' Southern boy, so him being please means a lot.
My 8 year old ended up pilering my meal from me so I had to go and re-order the same thing.
Just go and try it - it's sooo worth it. -
Review from Gunn V.
Atlanta, GA
11/21/2011
Fell of the bone rib is quite good, though not as juicy as I'd hope, while Brunswick stew is very good.
The atmosphere around the restaurant is also good. -
Review from Jane E.
Atlanta, GA
11/10/2011
This is supposedly an iconic restaurant of sorts. So after frequently visiting the Subway next door and seeing people constantly in and out of this joint (and smelling the bbq) I decided it was time to give them a try when one of my friends came in town.
Overall it was pretty good, I had 1/4 a chicken (dark meat of course, it's so juicy), be sure to clarify if you want dark (thigh and leg) or white (breast and wing) when getting the 1/4, I also had the brunswick stew (mmm, i looove brunswick stew), and the mac and cheese.
Honestly, from the amount of business they get I figured this place would be slap yo momma good, but it was mores just typical bbq that I could get at most any born-and-raised southerner's house in the summer. I actually want to give them 3 stars, but I feel cyber pressure to give them 4, lol... so hey, whatevs 4 stars for now...
The menu is simple, and the place is a quaint (sorta small inside) with some outdoor seating. Parking is a bit scarce at times.
Next time I'll try the ribs... -
Review from Tilia M.
10/24/2011
I've only ever had the chicken from Fat Matts (the half-bird) but let me tell you, it's amazing. Great flavor on the chicken, but, the star is the barbecue sauce! I'd put that stuff on everything. Its a little tangy, just a little sweet, and amazing.
Next time I'm here, I'll have to try the ribs. I've tried lots of Atlanta rib places, so, I'll see how FM stacks up. -
Review from Siv L.
10/24/2011
My roommate was intent on eating ribs from Fat Matt's after a recommendation from her friend. We ordered 2.5 slabs of ribs to go. I said I would only eat one but ended up eating 4! The meat was so tender it fell off the bone. And every rib had some tender white bone which I devoured.
Very delicious ribs! -
Review from Yane Y.
As the many reviews have stated, this place is the "Shiz-net". (who made up that word, anyway?)
This is one of my favorite places for BBQ Ribs ~~ fall off the bone ribs, tender, not too saucy, but can be with the side sauce they provide!
There are typically at least a handful waiting in line before they open.
Also, the hours posted on yelp are not accurate; nor the website!! So check out the pic I posted with current hours as of October 1, 2011!! (granted, they can always change their hours as they wish!)
I love their ice!! Crushed ice rocks.
Their sweet tea is good. Their fountain drinks (free re-fills!) are Coke products - yay!
I've been a number of times but choose only to review their ribs for now. I've had their mac'n cheese, it's okay. Not to die for! Their potato salad is fine - not to die for. Baked beans are fine; husband is a big fan! However, when I think beans, I think "gas"! So, I consciously choose not to eat beans! True or not... I just don't want to be gaseous!! Brunswick stew is pretty good.
Now, I suppose the ribs aren't "to die for" (but only because I don't want to set too high a standard and life is worth living!) .... But they are pretty. It's aight, friends. It's aight! At a minimum, I recommend you check it out at least once.
Beware: busy times can make it difficult to find seating.
Live music is nice (when they have it), but it can be loud. -
Review from Todd G.
Atlanta, GA
11/11/2011
Went here for lunch when my father came into town. We arrived just before the lunch crowd and were able to sit outside.
I tried the pulled pork sandwich with rum baked beans and coleslaw. I must say the port was excellent. I had never thought of the idea of adding rum to baked beans, but I must say I'm a fan!
They also had some good craft and local beers on draught which was unexpected but well appreciated.
Overall, a great experience. The food was served quickly, and I will be back!! -
Review from Jeff L.
Alpharetta, GA
11/11/2011
If there's one thing I learned in the south, it's to never piss off the BBQ Gods and Fat Matt.
Located in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by a dark shroud of potential health hazards that they call health spas and strip clubs; Fat Mattz stands out like a beacon of hope. The Luke Skywalker of Piedmont Ave, only with red neon lights and live jazz music.
Ambiance is everything that a clueless New Yorker can dream of; pictures, glitz, and the smell of bbq sauce.
Beware of the rack of ribs itis. You have been warned. -
Review from Peter K.
One of my favorite things about visiting Atlanta is Fat Matt's! I've been here twice now and both times, I have been VERY impressed with the ribs.
I ordered a full slab of ribs and split it with a friend. They are fall off the bone soft. The baked beans with rum are OFF THE HOOK!! On top of that, they provide some spicy barbecue sauce that works really well with the bread and ribs they give.
Their service is always amazing for a small hole in the wall place. They are there to clean up dishes when you are done with them and also help offer to refill your drinks for you without you even asking. They even know what you drink just by looking at the glass.
This will definitely be a place I come to whenever I come to town!
