Tucked inside a colorful bungalow on East 7th Avenue in Tampa, Florida, Al’s Finger Licking Good Bar-B-Que and Soul Food looks like the kind of place you might drive right past without a second glance. But locals know better.
With a 4.6-star rating from over 1,500 reviews and a loyal following that keeps the place packed from open to close, this unassuming spot has earned a serious reputation for Tennessee-style smoked meats and soul food that feels like a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re a Tampa native or just passing through Ybor City, here’s everything that makes Al’s a must-visit barbecue destination.
The Legendary Smoked Ribs That Keep People Coming Back
Some ribs fall off the bone, but Al’s ribs fall straight into your memory. Slow-smoked in the Tennessee tradition, these beauties develop a deep, caramelized crust on the outside while staying incredibly moist and flavorful inside.
Reviewers from across the country have called them some of the best they’ve ever had. One visitor from Kansas City, widely considered the BBQ capital of the world, gave Al’s ribs a full seal of approval after a single visit…