David Gibson's Barbeque

4114 Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville, AL - (256) 539-6312

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Posted By Mike Stroud on 4/5/2011 8:50:00 AM

Big Bob Gibson's Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama has received a lot of national attention in recent years for its exemplary North Alabama barbecue. But most folks don't know that, just 30 miles to the east in the considerably more cosmopolitan city of Huntsville, one of Big Bob's sons, David, set up shop back in the 1950s to give the people working at the nearby Redstone Arsenal a taste of his father's style of closed-pit cooking.

Located in southwestern Huntsville, David Gibson's Barbeque is a bastion of traditional, uncomplicated Southern cuisine, as well as mid-20th century decor, with the classic wood paneling in the small dining area. The region's traditional pulled and chopped pork takes center stage on the menu, but don't overlook the fine rendition of North Alabama barbecued chicken, featuring the famous "white sauce" of mayonnaise, vinegar, and black pepper, drenched all over the poultry. David Gibson's also serves a catfish sandwich, for non-BBQ eaters in your crowd.

But take this reviewer's word: order a "jumbo" barbecue sandwich and you won't go wrong. Underneath the top of the bun lies some of the most succulent, smoky pork available in those parts, topped with a medium-shredded, vinegar-based coleslaw--be sure to say "hold the slaw" if that's not your thing. Sprinkle a little vinegar-and-pepper sauce, and you have a miniature barbecue feast.

This is a perfect place for take-out, particularly if you're visiting attractions such as the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, just a short drive away. It's definitely a taste of North Alabama for not much money.

Scorecard

Overall: Excellent - Worth a Detour

barbecue sandwich	barbecue chicken

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"Nice, chocolaty custard in a very flaky crust with a good helping of meringue on top; it was everything you’d want it to be."
Dave O'Ball

"As you could imagine, a place whose signature dish is chicken knocked it out of the park. The chopped brisket is on this plate too."
Dave O'Ball

"David Gibson's interior"
Dave O'Ball

"David Gibson's BBQ"
Dave O'Ball

"Here is a thing of beauty for barbecue pork lovers: crowned with medium-cut slaw, this bun serves as a throne for a generous helping of moist, tender, inside and outside meat. Connoisseurs of swine rejoice!"
Mike Stroud

"The line at the serving counter moves very quickly. The menu revolves around barbecue-joint staples like pork, chicken, ribs, fish, and pies for dessert. And don't forget the sweet tea."
Mike Stroud

"David Gibson's Barbeque is housed in a classic 1960s flat-roofed, cinder-block building on a busy street corner near the U.S. Army's Redstone Arsenal. Military and civilian alike make this place a favorite at the lunch hour. The drive-in is especially popular, since parking and seating inside are both rather limited."
Mike Stroud