CRAWFORDVILLE, GA.—Why would a business open up in what seemed like the middle of nowhere; and who would travel down a long country road off the main highway to eat at a barbeque joint? Apparently a few people still do want to make that journey.
Heavy’s Bar-B-Q is a utopian marvel like no place you’ve ever seen. Perhaps it is best described as a scene from a different time. Just as I thought we might have taken a wrong turn on the way back to Atlanta, a picturesque landscape appeared out of nowhere, with relics like a big old cast iron pot bellied cauldron. There was fishing pond with two solemn men holding fishing poles extended and wearing knee high rubber boots. Peacocks strolled in the surrounding gardens.
An antiquated Coke truck inscribed with “Coke is It” caught my attention and curiosity made me stop and take a look.
On the porch in the entrance sat a larger than life rocking chair paired with a sign that read “Heavy’s Barbeque.”
Heavy’s Barbeque opened in 1969, according to the owners. William “Heavy” Grant worked for the county in Crawfordsville, Georgia. According to his daughter-in law Lydia Grant, he liked Coke memorabilia and other collectables. He always wanted to open a restaurant. He died six years ago.
The family works together, said Grant.
Heavy’s wife Louise Grant, their son, his wife Lydia and now, their daughter all work together in the store. They do everything the old fashioned way, “There are no shortcuts, we make the extra effort,” said Grant.
“Times are tough now but we keep on working.” Her husband still chops the oak firewood for the antique oven as he prepares for the workday ahead, she said.
Movie buffs may find the name Heavy’s Barbeque familiar. It stood in as a bar for the 2002 movie “Sweet Home Alabama.” Reese Witherspoon and Melanie Lynskey –best known for playing Charlie Harpers’ neighbor/stalker Rose on “Two and a Half Men,” appear in the scene.
According to Grant, the restaurant has hosted celebrities who found their way down this country road, such as Kenny Rodgers, Ringo Starr and his wife Barbara Bach, long time Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox as well as wrestling stars including “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes.
Through recessions and economic shifts this family stuck with the idea that they could make it. They are still in business.
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