One word… Exceptional!

I’ve eaten a lot of BBQ in my lifetime and, by the grace of God, I hope to continue for many years to come.  If I am blessed to do so, my simple wish is to continue to stumble upon great BBQ joints like Wiley’s Championship BBQ in Savannah, GA.

In town for just a day, I immediately looked for what could be considered the best of the best.  A few minutes of research on Savannah’s local BBQ scene, a few confirmations from Savannah’s finest and viola!, I find myself on Wiley’s doorstep!

Right away, I knew I had made the right choice.  Located in a modest strip-mall off Highway 80 East, Wiley’s is clean, nicely decorated, and perfectly matched to the Low Country flair of the surrounding area.  As we approached the door, the smoky aroma let me know the BBQ was poised and ready for our arrival.

Like the decor, the service was warm and inviting.  Immediately, several employees, including Wiley’s owner, Janet McCrary, greeted us as we walked in.  Just seconds after selecting a table, we were nose-deep in the menus and had Fried Pickles and Iced Teas on the way!  Taking our server’s advice, we decided on sampling a half-rack of St. Louis style pork ribs and a pork sandwich on garlic bread.  On the side, we indulged in smoked baked-beans, coleslaw, french fries, and garlic bread.  The ribs and pork sandwich were excellent, especially with Wiley’s ’Better than Sex’ Extra Tingly sauce dripping from every edge.  But, I must admit.  The pork was slightly overshadowed by the baked-beans.  Truly, Wiley’s Smoked Baked-Beans were the best I’ve ever eaten.  From what we were told, the recipe is a culmination of over a decade’s work to perfect the concoction.  You’ve got to love people who work that hard at their art, and yes, I consider BBQ an art form.

During our indulgence, I suspect our wide smiles and radiating auras gave away our lust for this cuisine.  To our delight, the owner, Janet, quickly summoned a sampling of Wiley’s side dishes and beef brisket. Collard greens done right, mac and cheese, baked potato salad, and Brunswick stew were all excellent.  I kick myself for not straying away from the traditional coleslaw and french fries. Lesson learned.  Wiley’s beef brisket is also worth the trip.  After just returning from Kansas City the previous week, I can assure you Wiley’s brisket could easily compete with any KC BBQ joint.

Additional recommendations? Arrive early. That is, before the gathering of locals for lunch and dinner. We arrived at 11:15 a.m. and watched as the tables quickly filled and a line formed outside.  Overall, Wiley’s is an excellent choice for BBQ in the Savannah and Tybee Island area.  I can assure you I’ll return to Wiley’s Championship BBQ on my next trip to the Low Country.  I hope to see you there!

Wiley’s Championship BBQ, 4700 Highway 8o East. Savannah, GA (912) 201-3259

http://www.wileyschampionshipbbq.com/

Sincerely,

the Dysfunctional Foodie – May 2010