A famous barbecue joint that’s been a Walker County staple for over half a century is moving to a new, larger location next month. According to owner Susie Headrick, Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q aims to open its new space during the second week of March.

Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q, a Walker County staple

Founded in 1951 by Edith Carey, Green Top Bar-B-Q was originally a popular barbecue and beer joint that welcomed travelers along the brand-new Highway 78. In 1973, the Headrick family—Leo and Susie, along with their sons Richard and Preston—bought the Green Top and made it their own.

Today, Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q is known for its famous Green Top BBQ sandwich with real hickory smoked meat, fresh ingredients and a great atmosphere.

Green Top Bar-B-Q moving to former Lee’s Family Restaurant

In 2022, a fire broke out at the original Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q. Due to the fire damage, the Headrick’s moved their barbecue operations to a smaller space on Highway 78.

Now, the Headrick’s are moving Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q to a new, larger space just down the road. Located at 2825 Hwy 78 E, the new location was previously Lee’s Family Restaurant. Lee’s Family Restaurant closed in late 2025 after nearly 20 years in the area.

“After much discussion and going back & forth, trying to figure out a solution to re-open at our original location, we finally settled on this location. We intend to have a little of the old features mixed in with the new. The BBQ and our menu will always be the same. We will be adding some additional Meat & 2 options as requested by customers. Along with our normal opening hours we will be open 7 days with Sunday & Monday being lunch only. We look forward to seeing some old faces and new ones also.”
Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q

According to the owners, the new Leo & Susie’s Famous Green Top Bar-B-Q is set to open during the second week of March.

Follow Bham Now on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn and sign up for our FREE newsletter to have exciting news about The Magic City delivered straight to your inbox!