By: Diana Rell Dean

Recently, I hosted a Gallery Show at Riverhouse Workshop. While folks ventured in and out, someone mentioned something about a great new barbecue place down the road from my place in Tensaw, Alabama claiming it was the best they had ever had. That’s a pretty strong statement considering barbecue is a staple in the South. 

Everyone has their favorites and regional styles, so I made a point to seek out Shotgun Bar-B-Que and see what all the fuss is about. I visited with Ed Peterson and his wife, Angela at their barbecue joint at Cliff’s Landing on the Tensaw River, just north of Spanish Fort off Highway 225. I can attest that this establishment offers what is arguably the BEST barbecue in the state, and those of us who live in North Baldwin County are delighted to have them nearby.

Shotgun Bar-B-Que opened in November last year. They are what I describe as “competitive” barbeque in a river setting. Open Wednesdays through Sundays, once a month they take it on the river with a gig they call “Grillin’ on the River,” or “Trolling on the Tensaw.” You can find the dates when this occurs on their Facebook page. Additionally, Ed and Angela do catering for special events.

Ed has been doing this all his life, starting with his childhood growing up in Albion, Michigan. Angela is from Mount Vernon in North Mobile County. Ed says he learned the art of grilling at his father’s knee. He prepares pulled pork, beef brisket, ribs, and all the sides on a 16-foot long barbequing “locomotive” powered by a 48 cubic inch firebox built by his own hands. You have to see it to believe it!

Ed and Angela have been catering for 12 years and Grillin’ on the River for three. Look for Grillin’ on the River at Gravine Island on Memorial Day. The restaurant is newly opened but rapidly gathering steam. I promise it’s worth the beautiful drive up Highway 225 to try it out. But, make sure you’re hungry because the sides are as good as the meat!

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SHOTGUN BAR-B-QUE;

7740 CLIFFS LANDING

BAY MINETTE, AL.36507

(251)373-0827

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