Golden Rule Bar-B-Q — Review by Randy Santel

The Dishes

The main event was the 'Big Pig' Barbecue Pulled Pork Sandwich Challenge, featuring approximately 2 to 2.5 pounds of home-smoked pulled pork that is described as delicious and juicy. The pork is generously topped with homemade coleslaw that has a vinegar-based flavor reminiscent of what you would find at a traditional Lenten Friday fish fry. On top of that sits about a pound of their original barbecue sauce, all nestled between a soft bun. The challenge also included a heaping portion of loaded fries that became even more loaded as toppings from the sandwich fell onto the plate.

Beyond the main sandwich, Randy sampled the mac and cheese, which he describes as looking absolutely delicious and worthy of trying. He also enjoyed their homemade banana pudding for dessert, which featured generous amounts of vanilla wafers, real banana pieces, and what appeared to be a creamy custard base. The restaurant offers multiple barbecue sauce options including their Original White Sauce and Original Barbecue Sauce, giving diners choices to customize their meal.

The Experience

Golden Rule Bar-B-Q created an electric atmosphere for this food challenge event. The restaurant was packed with enthusiastic spectators who came to witness Randy's attempt. The crowd was incredibly supportive and positive, creating an energetic environment throughout the eating session. Randy specifically praised the service, noting that it was exceptional and responsive to his needs, even bringing him a Diet Coke with no ice promptly during the challenge.

The restaurant itself is a substantial establishment that has been operating since 1891, giving it over a century of history and tradition. Owner Brian and his team were welcoming and accommodating, making Randy and the spectators feel valued. The overall vibe was celebratory and community-focused, with people cheering Randy on throughout his attempt.

Value and Pricing

The challenge meal is priced at only $24.95 plus tax, which Randy considers an excellent deal given the massive amount of food involved. The price includes the Big Pig sandwich with pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce, plus loaded fries and the optional mac and cheese side. If the challenger succeeds in finishing within the 45-minute time limit, they receive the entire meal for free, along with a commemorative t-shirt and placement on the Wall of Fame. For those not attempting the challenge, the restaurant offers the pulled pork sandwich at a higher price point suitable for family portions.

Notable Moments

This is freaking massive! It's a little bit bigger than I was thinking!

Randy faced one of the largest pulled pork sandwiches he has encountered, with over 75 previous failed attempts at the challenge creating an impressive competitive atmosphere. Only five people had successfully completed the challenge before Randy, with his friend 'Big Eater' Mike holding the record at 17 minutes and 58 seconds.

They do homemake this. I am excited. I love banana pudding. It's better in Alabama, I guess.

Randy's completion time of 24 minutes and 9 seconds was respectable, even if it didn't break the standing record. He emphasized that he was never expecting to beat the record from the start and remained very happy with his performance.

The Verdict

Golden Rule Bar-B-Q comes highly recommended by Randy Santel as both a challenge destination and a regular barbecue restaurant. The establishment's 130-year history speaks to the quality and consistency of their recipes, particularly their smoked pulled pork, which Randy found to be excellent. The homemade sides like coleslaw and banana pudding elevate the experience beyond typical barbecue fare. The restaurant is best for those seeking authentic, flavorful barbecue with generous portions and a welcoming community atmosphere. While the challenge is designed for competitive eaters, regular customers will appreciate the diverse menu that includes ribs, beef brisket, sausage, loaded baked potatoes, and various desserts. Randy suggests combining a visit with a walk around nearby Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve to work up an appetite before indulging in this Alabama barbecue institution.