Pig-N-Chik in Atlanta: What to Know Before You Go

If you spend any time around Atlanta’s east side or north ITP neighborhoods, you’ll eventually hear someone mention Pig-N-Chik. While it’s technically a barbecue spot, it often gets grouped with “international cuisine” because of its mix of Southern BBQ, Cajun and Creole influences, and a few Greek touches that reflect the owners’ background.

Here’s a clear look at how Pig-N-Chik fits into Atlanta’s food scene, what to expect at each location, and how to decide if it works for your next meal.

Where You’ll Find Pig-N-Chik in Atlanta

Pig-N-Chik is a small Atlanta-based chain, with locations concentrated in intown and close-in suburbs, especially on the northeast side of the city. The exact lineup can change, but you’ll commonly see:

• Northeast Atlanta / Briarcliff–LaVista area
• Chamblee–Brookhaven corridor
• Sometimes a Sandy Springs / Roswell Road–area storefront

These locations are generally:

• Close to major streets and MARTA bus lines
• Anchored in neighborhood shopping centers
• Easy to reach from places like Decatur, North Druid Hills, Tucker, Brookhaven, and Buckhead

If you’re visiting Atlanta, Pig-N-Chik often ends up on the radar of people staying near Emory University, Northlake, or Brookhaven who want barbecue without driving far OTP.

What Kind of Food Does Pig-N-Chik Serve?

A Southern Base With International Influences

Most people think of Pig-N-Chik as classic Southern barbecue first, with international elements layered in. You’ll usually see:

• Pulled pork, ribs, smoked chicken, and brisket
• House BBQ sauces that lean sweet, tangy, or spicy
• Southern sides like baked beans, coleslaw, collard greens, mac and cheese, and potato salad

But the menu often includes influences from outside the classic Southern playbook, such as:

• Cajun and Creole dishes (for example, items inspired by New Orleans–style cooking)
• Greek or Mediterranean touches (a nod to the ownership background)
• Occasional daily specials that push the menu beyond standard barbecue

So while the backbone is Southern, the flavors and occasional specials give it a more international, cross-regional feel than many single-style BBQ joints.

Pig-N-Chik vs. Other Atlanta “International Cuisine” Options

In the context of Atlanta’s international cuisine scene—Buford Highway, Decatur, Doraville, and the Westside—Pig-N-Chik fits in a slightly different way:

How it fits the “international” label:

• Mixes regional American styles (Deep South, Texas-style brisket, Cajun/Creole)
• Adds Mediterranean/Greek flourishes in certain menu items
• Reflects the blended-culture food scene that’s common in Atlanta neighborhoods

How it differs from typical international restaurants:

• It isn’t a single-country restaurant like a Mexican taqueria, Korean BBQ house, or Ethiopian café
• Most guests still approach it as barbecue first, then notice the international notes

If you’re intentionally searching for “international food in Atlanta” and land on Pig-N-Chik, think of it as Southern barbecue with global influences, rather than a pure representation of one foreign cuisine.

What to Expect When You Visit

Atmosphere and Service Style

Across Atlanta-area locations, Pig-N-Chik tends to feel:

• Laid-back and casual – order-at-the-counter or quick table service
• Family-friendly – booths, tables, and space for groups
• Neighborhood-oriented – you’ll often see regulars, youth sports teams, and local families

This makes it a practical option for:

• Post-game kids’ meals
• Casual group dinners
• Quick meals during errands in NE Atlanta or Brookhaven

Dress is fully casual—shorts, jeans, and t-shirts are normal, and it’s common to see people stop in after work or after a game.

Signature Items and Popular Choices

While specific offerings can vary by location and over time, many Atlanta diners gravitate toward the following core items:

• Pulled pork plates or sandwiches – a staple for people trying Pig-N-Chik for the first time
• Ribs – often ordered by people comparing local BBQ spots
• Smoked chicken – a lighter option if you want BBQ flavor without heavier cuts
• Brisket – popular among brisket fans looking for a Texas-style influence

Common sides include:

• Mac and cheese – one of the most frequently chosen comfort sides
• Baked beans – typical at Atlanta BBQ restaurants
• Coleslaw – often paired with pulled pork
• Potato salad or collard greens – for a more traditional Southern plate

Some locations also offer wings, salads, and daily or seasonal specials that show off Cajun or Mediterranean flavors.

Prices and Portion Expectations

Pig-N-Chik generally aims for the mid-range casual price point in Atlanta:

• Plates and combo meals typically fall into a “sit-down but not upscale” budget
• Sandwiches and baskets work for a quicker, lower-cost meal
• Family-style options or larger portions are often available if you’re feeding a group

In most cases, you’ll find:

• Hearty portion sizes for the price
• Enough food for a substantial lunch or dinner, especially if you add extra sides or share family-style

If you’re cost-conscious, you can keep the bill down by:

• Sharing a larger rib or meat platter
• Sticking with sandwich + one side combinations
• Skipping beverages in favor of water

Takeout, Delivery, and Catering in Atlanta

Takeout and Delivery

Pig-N-Chik is widely used by Atlanta residents for takeout and delivery, especially in the neighborhoods near each store:

• Call-in orders are common for weeknight dinners
• Many locations coordinate with major third-party delivery apps (availability depends on your address and time of day)
• Packaging is generally suited for saucy and smoked items, but reheating at home can help if you drive a longer distance

If you live in Atlanta and want the best texture for ribs or smoked meats, many locals pick up directly rather than relying on longer-distance delivery.

Catering and Group Orders

Pig-N-Chik is often chosen for:

• Office lunches (especially in medical, tech, or corporate corridors near I-85 and I-285)
• Youth sports team meals and neighborhood events
• Game day spreads for college and pro football

Typical catering-style options can include:

• Trays of meats (pulled pork, chicken, brisket)
• Bulk sides (beans, slaw, greens, mac and cheese)
• Buns, sauces, and disposables for self-serve setups

If you’re in Atlanta and planning a larger gathering, it’s common to:

1. Call the nearest location directly to ask about tray sizes and pricing
2. Confirm how far in advance they need notice
3. Ask about pickup vs. delivery options, since this can vary

Dietary Considerations

For Atlantans with specific dietary needs, it helps to know how Pig-N-Chik typically fits:

• Gluten-conscious eaters
  • Some meats are naturally gluten-light, but sauces, buns, and fried items can add gluten
  • Many diners simply order meat plates without bread and choose non-breaded sides
• Dairy sensitivities
  • Items like mac and cheese obviously contain dairy; slaw and potato salad may have creamy dressings
• Pork-free choices
  • Smoked chicken and brisket are alternatives if you avoid pork
• Vegetarian options
  • Limited; you’re mostly looking at sides and salads. Pig-N-Chik is primarily meat-centered.

If you have serious allergies or strict dietary rules, calling your preferred Atlanta location ahead of time is the safest option to confirm ingredients or preparation methods.

When Pig-N-Chik Works Well for Atlanta Diners

Pig-N-Chik tends to be a good fit if you:

• Live or stay near northeast Atlanta, Brookhaven, or Chamblee and want local barbecue
• Need a casual, family-friendly restaurant where kids and adults can all find something
• Are exploring Atlanta’s regional American and Southern food, including Cajun/Creole influences
• Want a no-fuss option for takeout or a small-group gathering

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for:

• A formal dining experience or upscale ambiance
• A strictly vegetarian or vegan menu
• A deeply specialized single-country international cuisine (like a dedicated Thai, Ethiopian, or Korean restaurant)

Quick Reference: Pig-N-Chik at a Glance

Practical Tips for Atlantans and Visitors

To get the most out of a visit to Pig-N-Chik in Atlanta:

• Go during off-peak hours (late lunch or early dinner) if you want quicker service and easier parking.
• Ask about daily specials – they sometimes highlight the more “international” side of the menu.
• If you’re exploring multiple Atlanta barbecue spots, use Pig-N-Chik as a contrast point to more traditional or single-style smokehouses, especially for its Cajun and Mediterranean influences.
• For big events, call ahead for catering rather than relying solely on online ordering, so you can nail down portions and timing.

For anyone living in or visiting Atlanta, Pig-N-Chik offers a straightforward way to experience local barbecue with a twist, tucked into some of the city’s most lived-in, everyday neighborhoods.