Shortly after starting The Alabama Barbecue Chase, I messaged a group of friends about my new project and invited them to follow me. Almost immediately, suggestions on barbecue restaurants come rolling in. Most were local, but some were a good drive from our home. Kendall’s BBQ was one of those very early recommendations and remained on the Hit List for two years. Finally, a Gulf trip for the Barbecue Babe’s birthday provided the right conditions for a visit. Time to tick one off the list.

Kendall’s isn’t much to look at. A converted storage building sharing a parking lot between a gas station and a dumpster won’t be featured in Home & Garden. There’s no entrance, no dining room, just an awning and a sliding glass window for orders. A plain black and white menu hangs on the wall, displaying a selection that’s typical of any barbecue joint. Modest, comely, and completely unassuming. But step up to the window and that’s where the beauty starts!

We were greeted with the wholly southern “Hi, sweetheart,” with an honesty that comes from someone who believes what they’re saying. Service with a smile and an invitation to return, which we later did on our way home. There was a good vibe, the kind that only comes off good people. We were shown kindness and appreciation for stopping at their little stand, which was about to turn into a big discovery.

Kendall’s dining area is a patio with a few weather-worn picnic tables and no shade. The Barbecue Babe hates getting hot, so we chose Dashboard Dining, or eating in the car. The first thing I noticed was the heft of our sandwiches. They were heavy and thoughtfully made to be easy eating in the car. My pork was chopped and topped with a sweet sauce, which helped hold it together. The meat was beautifully smoked with a soft bark, tender and good mouth feel. The smoky aroma filled the car and my nostrils, making each bite a sensory experience. It was hearty and checked all the boxes for a down home, satisfying barbecue sandwich.

I chose baked beans as my pairing and they didn’t disappoint. They’re in a thick, rich, warm sauce, sweet with peppers and onions. They have a complex blend of spices that’s bursting with flavor. This was a textbook, no frills barbecue picnic that brought the taste of classic fired barbecue.

Mary’s chicken sandwich was equally good, tender and smoky. It’s difficult to keep chicken moist but Kendall’s did just that. Her fries were golden and tender on the inside. I picked at them as I realized Mary was letting them get cold. I didn’t want them to go to waste. I’m helpful that way.

Kendall’s is definitely worth the stop. It’s beautiful barbecue and will lift your spirit on your I-65 haul. Props to whichever of my buddies suggested them. It’s good to have friends.