"Harold's To Keep Its Doors Open"

 

ATLANTA -- It was supposed to be the end of an era for an Atlanta institution Thursday. Harold's Barbecue on McDonough Boulevard was supposed to close. But it didn't because it was saved by its own tradition, its customers. Harold's has never been known for five star atmosphere. It has been known for its food.

 Rose Gaston has been going to Harold's for more than 25 years. "We always pick up a gallon of stew for our Christmas dinner," she said.

 Paula Reese said this: "Because the meat is so good."

 "And the cracklin' corn bread? Oh...it's amazing," said Quinterious Mitchell.

 Harold's has become a favorite of Governors, famous writers like Lewis Grizzard, comedians like Jeff Foxworthy and sports heroes like Evander Holyfield. It was founded in 1947 by Harold and Hugh Hembree and has been passed on through the family for 65 years. It was supposed to close on its anniversary. The current owner Billy Branyon said he told his employees last Monday he would have to close. "You've had people here for 40 something years," he said. "That includes kitchen help, their parents and grandparents worked here before them and it's all one big family...."