BBQ Exchange, Gordonsville VA

November 2024

This was my second time at the BBQ Exchange, but I’m going to write here about my first visit.

I was staying at a nearby Bed & Breakfast that I’d picked precisely because it was in the remote Virginia countryside. I wanted to get away from it all, and boy did I. If I wanted a meal, I’d have to drive.

When I asked the proprietor for recommendations, the first place he suggested was the BBQ Exchange in Gordonsville. Cool, I though, I like barbecue. Hopefully it’ll be okay.

So I drove into Gordonsville and found the place, perched next to a somewhat awkward intersection that required a bit of negotiation for an out-of-towner like myself. I found a parking spot in the fairly large gravel parking lot and entered.

I was immediately greeted by a line of about 8-10 people. My eyebrow arched. This was a good sign; if a non-chain restaurant stays busy that means they’re doing something right. I waited in line patiently, then ordered…honestly I forget what I ordered. I think it was the brisket. I then found a table and waited for my order, very curious what I’d get.

What I got wasn’t okay. It was great. It’s exactly what barbecue should be, tender and flavorful all on its own, but elevated by the house sauce (which the meat is not drowning in, either). I suddenly wanted to have every meal of that trip at the BBQ Exchange.

During this trip, I was exploring Gordonsville itself, which has a charming little historic district worth a visit…but that’s another post. If I’m ever in this party of the country again near lunch or dinner time, the BBQ Exchange will be high on the list to revisit.