7 Georgia Smokehouses Where Peach Tea Outshines the Meat

Barbecue in Georgia is known for smoked pork, ribs, and chicken, but many local smokehouses also take pride in their drinks. Sweet tea is nearly universal, and in Georgia, adding peaches to it has become a tradition in its own right. Peach tea offers a refreshing contrast to smoky meats, often becoming the most memorable part of the meal.

Across the state, from roadside barbecue stands to larger restaurants, peach tea has developed its own loyal following. These Georgia smokehouses are as well known for what’s in the glass as what’s on the plate.

1. Fresh Air Bar-B-Que (Jackson and Macon)

With roots stretching back to 1929, Fresh Air Bar-B-Que stands as a testament to Georgia’s barbecue traditions. Many locals recall their first visit here not just for the vinegar-based pork, but for the memory of sipping peach tea on a hot afternoon. The tea’s sweetness is always balanced with a hint of tartness, making it a distinct companion to the restaurant’s smoky offerings.

Regulars often order peach tea before even deciding on their meal, a habit that speaks to its reputation. The Macon and Jackson locations each serve the tea generously over ice, drawing both barbecue enthusiasts and tea lovers. Interestingly, some travelers report stopping by just for the tea when passing through Central Georgia.

Fresh Air’s peach tea is consistently mentioned in online reviews and local forums. For many, it’s the subtle taste of summer and tradition in a glass, and a key part of the Fresh Air experience.

2. Hudson’s Bar-B-Que (Douglasville)

At Hudson’s Bar-B-Que, customers often arrive with one thing in mind: the house peach tea. This Douglasville staple, run by the same family for decades, has created a devoted following that sometimes rivals the one for its barbecue.

The tea is brewed daily in small batches, which regulars say ensures its consistently fresh flavor. Many diners pair their ribs or pulled chicken with a tall glass of tea, which is known for its pronounced peach aroma and natural sweetness. On weekends, pitchers of peach tea often make their way to nearly every table.

Some guests mention coming back simply for the chance to enjoy the tea with friends on the covered porch. Hudson’s peach tea has inspired local social media posts and praise from area food critics, further validating its unique place in the region’s barbecue culture.

3. Holcomb’s Bar-B-Que (Greensboro and White Plains)

Holcomb’s Bar-B-Que offers a snapshot of rural Georgia barbecue culture, where simple menus and community ties define the experience. Visitors often remark on the straightforward hickory-smoked meats, but the peach tea is a fixture, served in mason jars and always cold.

Locals appreciate the generous portions and the tea’s balanced sweetness, which complements the hearty plates without overpowering them. It’s not uncommon to see regulars order a refill before their meal even arrives. The tradition of serving peach tea here reportedly dates back several decades.

Holcomb’s atmosphere feels both timeless and welcoming, with the tea acting as a bridge between generations of diners. Its presence at every meal is as ingrained as the barbecue sauce on the table. For many, peach tea at Holcomb’s is simply part of what makes the experience complete.

4. Southern Pit Bar-B-Que (Griffin)

Southern Pit Bar-B-Que is a familiar sight along the Griffin roadside, drawing a steady crowd for its chopped pork sandwiches. The real standout, however, is the peach tea, often served in large, ice-filled foam cups that regulars carry out by the gallon.

Reviews regularly highlight the tea’s ability to cut through the richness of smoked meats, offering a palate-cleansing sip that’s especially appreciated on hot afternoons. Some longtime customers even say the peach tea has become a tradition for picnics and road trips.

On weekends, the tea is often paired with outdoor seating, allowing diners to relax and enjoy both the food and the Georgia sunshine. Southern Pit’s peach tea is a recurring topic in local dining discussions, reinforcing its reputation as a local favorite.

5. Old Hickory House (Tucker)

Step inside Old Hickory House in Tucker and you’ll find a space that feels unchanged for generations. While the barbecue draws steady crowds, it’s the peach tea that often sets the tone for a meal described as both comforting and familiar.

Many patrons mention that the tea brings them back to childhood summers, thanks to its lightly floral notes and just-right sweetness. The pairing with classic barbecue is both practical and nostalgic. Servers recommend the tea as a natural match for dishes ranging from pulled pork to fried chicken.

Old Hickory House’s approach to peach tea is uncomplicated, emphasizing freshness and balance. Local publications have even featured the tea in dining write-ups, showcasing its place as an essential part of the restaurant’s identity.

6. Heavy’s Bar-B-Que (Crawfordville)

Movie buffs may recognize Heavy’s Bar-B-Que as a filming location, but locals know it as a community hub where peach tea is always in demand. The menu is no-frills, yet the tea stands out thanks to its consistent quality and refreshing fruit notes.

Travelers stopping by for a taste of cinematic history are often surprised by how the tea complements the smoked pork and ribs. It’s served with a slice of lemon, adding a bright accent to each glass. Some patrons have made a habit of ordering two glasses, especially on busy weekends.

Heavy’s has even inspired local event planners to feature the peach tea at reunions and gatherings. Its role in the restaurant’s story is as notable as the movie memorabilia adorning the walls.

7. Fincher’s Bar-B-Q (Macon)

Operating since 1935, Fincher’s Bar-B-Q is woven into the fabric of Macon’s dining scene. Staff members often share that the peach tea recipe has been refined over generations, creating a taste that many locals instantly recognize.

The tea is notable for its subtle balance, never overshadowing the food but always present as a reliable refreshment. Diners frequently mention it in reviews, praising both the quality of the tea and its compatibility with barbecue sandwiches. The presence of visible peach slices in the glass is a signature touch.

Over the years, Fincher’s has hosted community events and celebrations, often with pitchers of peach tea at the center of the table. The tradition of serving this tea remains an essential element of what makes Fincher’s a Macon institution.