Barbecue isn’t just food—it’s an experience, a community, and, in many ways, a form of therapy. As a psychologist and a barbecue enthusiast, I’ve often thought about why meals like this resonate so deeply with us.

Food has always been tied to memory and emotion. The smell of smoked ribs or pulled pork can bring back childhood memories of family gatherings, laughter, and togetherness. From a psychological standpoint, this connection between taste and memory is a powerful reminder of how food nourishes not just the body but the soul.

Barbecue also embodies the idea of slowing down. Smoking meat takes time—sometimes hours. In a world obsessed with speed and efficiency, barbecue reminds us of the value of patience, presence, and savoring the moment.

But perhaps most importantly, barbecue brings people together. Around the table, differences fade. Friends, families, and even strangers connect over shared meals. That sense of belonging is central to mental well-being.

In my own journey of writing a restaurant guide to barbecue joints around Athens, GA, I discovered more than flavors—I discovered stories of people, tradition, and community. Barbecue is proof that sometimes the best therapy can be found not in a counseling office but around a table with good food and good company.