Good BBQ Year-Round at Community Q

Good barbecue can be enjoyed year round at Community Q BBQ. Tucked away in an unassuming strip of international eateries near the intersection of Clairmont and North Decatur roads, Community Q serves generous portions of tender, flavorful meats and home-style sides.

Open for just over a year, David Roberts started Community Q with co-owners Jim Laber and Stuart Baesel, these guys have barbecue down packed. Roberts, who has about 20 years of experience in the restaurant business, spent six years as a principal owner of the Cobb County barbecue joint Sam & Dave's before selling his share and opening the Decatur eatery.

Whether you like beef or pork, tangy or sweet, it's not going to matter at Community Q. They deliver consistent food every time. For beef fans, the brisket is tender, slow-cooked goodness. And if you get the beef rib, prepare to be gawked at. The size alone is enough to have other patrons staring at the brontosaurus-like portion. But don't let size fool you into thinking it's going to be a tough chew. You will know the kitchen crew has their act together when the meat falls off the bone with ease.

The pork ribs are the same. The St. Louis-style cut is sure to please everyone from hardcore BBQ junkies down to the occasional nibbler. One favorite choice on the menu is the pulled pork. A hearty fistful of savory and tender hand-pulled pork over two pieces of grilled Texas toast. They also serve chicken and smoked sausage, which are both good. The two meat combo plate is a great choice if you can decide on what you want.

You have a choice of how you choose to eat your meat: sauce or spices and smokes. Or, top it with a choice of a sweet tomato-based sauce or the tangy vinegar-based version. (Hint: Try mixing both sauces together.)

Most meals options come with one meat (unless you get the two meat combo) and two sides. The sides are a meal unto themselves. The most popular choice is the mac and cheese. Made with non-traditional rigatoni and a sharp cheddar, Monterey jack and Parmesan three-cheese blend you won't be so quick to share this fan favorite. Others sides include coleslaw, potato salad and baked beans that are packed with sugar, spices and bits of brisket – yum! And make sure you save room for dessert because they got that too.

Roberts buys from local farmers to ensure his meat and produce are as fresh as possible. Community Q also offers locally grown produce for sale. Choices include: sweet potatoes, collards, green beans and onions.

Meal prices are fair, ranging from $7-15. Community Q BBQ is at 1361 Clairmont Road in Decatur. Hours are 11am to 8:30pm, Monday through Thursday; 11am to 9:30pm, Friday and Saturday; and 11am to 7pm on Sunday. Visit www.communityqbbq.com for more information and a complete menu or call (404) 633-2080.

Get there early. They have been known to run out of beef ribs and brisket.