Memphis is up there as one of the best cities for BBQ restaurants across the United States. What makes up classic Memphis food? Unctuous sauces, delectable dry ribs, and pulled pork that’ll make your mouth water. You’re certainly not going to be short of places to choose from. Sometimes that makes making a choice harder than when you’re starved of options! Fear not, as we have compiled a list of the five best BBQ restaurants in Memphis that you must visit.
Central BBQ
Address: 2249 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 272-9377
Website: https://cbqmemphis.com/
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm
If you are looking for an authentic BBQ experience in Memphis, Central BBQ has to be near the top of your list. The restaurant has been serving delicious BBQ dishes to locals and tourists alike for over 20 years. Their signature dish is the Memphis-style dry-rub ribs, which are a must-try. Meat so tender it falls off the bone, and the dry rub adds the perfect amount of flavor. The pulled pork and brisket are also excellent options. The atmosphere at Central BBQ is lively, and the staff is friendly, making for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Bar-B-Q Shop
Address: 1782 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Phone: (901) 272-1277
Website: https://thebar-b-qshop.com/
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm
The Bar-B-Q Shop is another legendary BBQ restaurant in Memphis that has been serving up mouth-watering dishes since 1987. Their menu features classic BBQ dishes like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, but the standout dish is the BBQ spaghetti. Yes, you read that right, BBQ spaghetti! So unique you won’t find it in any other joints. If you’re after a no-flair, cozy place with friendly staff, Bar-B-Q Shop is a great choice.
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Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
Address: 5259 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119
Phone: (901) 685-9744
Website: https://corkysbbq.com/
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ is a Memphis staple and has been serving up delicious BBQ dishes since 1984. Their signature dish is the ribs, which are smoked for up to eight hours and coated in Corky’s famous BBQ sauce. The sauce is sublime. A perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess goes with just about any smoked meat. Pulled pork and brisket are also excellent options. You’ll find a warm welcome and a casual restaurant atmosphere, perfect for families.
One & Only BBQ
Address: 567 Perkins Ext, Memphis, TN 38117
Phone: (901) 249-4227
Website: https://www.oneandonlybbq.com/
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 9 pm
One & Only BBQ is a family-owned BBQ restaurant that has been serving up delicious dishes since 2015. The menu features BBQ classics like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, but if you’re visiting, you have to try the standout smoked bologna sandwich. Another unique creation that’s available in just this BBQ joint.
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Payne’s Bar-B-Q
Address: 1762 Lamar Ave, Memphis, TN 38114
Phone: (901) 272-1523
Website: N/A
Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday, 11 am to 6 pm
Off the beaten track, Payne’s Bar-B-Q has been serving some of the city’s best BBQ since 1972. It’s an unassuming exterior, but that shouldn’t deter your visit. Their signature dish is the chopped pork shoulder sandwich, which is slow-cooked for over 12 hours and delivers an incredibly juicy mouthful. The atmosphere at Payne’s is casual and laid-back, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.
Key Takeaways
Memphis is a haven for BBQ lovers, and these five restaurants are some of the best in the city. Local or tourist, these restaurants will deliver an authentic and unforgettable BBQ experience that you’re not going to find anywhere else.
