Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Memphis, in a city that’s famous for its barbecue. With a rich history and tradition of slow-cooking meats over hickory wood, Memphis-style barbecue is a unique and delicious culinary experience.
In this article, we highlighted the top five barbecue restaurants in Memphis, based on customer reviews, ratings, and popularity. Each of these restaurants – Central BBQ, The Bar-B-Q Shop, Corky’s BBQ, Payne’s Bar-B-Que, and Cozy Corner BBQ – has its own unique atmosphere, signature dishes, and approach to barbecue. Here is why they are the best restaurants in Memphis for barbecue.
1. Central BBQ: Central BBQ, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, and has received consistently positive reviews for their delicious smoked meats, particularly their pork shoulder and ribs. The restaurant also offers a wide range of sauces and sides to complement the meat, and has a casual, friendly atmosphere.
2. The Bar-B-Q Shop: The Bar-B-Q Shop, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is known for its dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork, as well as its unique barbecue spaghetti dish. The restaurant has been serving customers in Memphis for over 30 years and has received numerous awards and accolades for its delicious food.
3. Corky’s BBQ: Corky’s BBQ, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a popular chain with multiple locations in the Memphis area. They are known for their tender, flavorful pulled pork, as well as their signature sauce, which is a blend of sweet and tangy flavors. The restaurant also offers a variety of other barbecue dishes, as well as tasty sides like mac and cheese and coleslaw.
4. Payne’s Bar-B-Que: Payne’s Bar-B-Que, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving Memphis-style barbecue for over 100 years. The restaurant is known for its flavorful chopped pork sandwich, as well as its hot tamales and homemade pies. The restaurant has a simple, no-frills atmosphere that emphasizes the quality of the food.
5. Cozy Corner BBQ: Cozy Corner BBQ, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a small, family-owned restaurant that has been serving Memphis-style barbecue since 1977. The restaurant is known for its unique signature dish, the Cornish game hen, as well as its succulent ribs and pulled pork. The restaurant has a cozy, intimate atmosphere and is a favorite among locals.
Top 5 Barbecue Restaurants in Memphis
Central BBQ
Address: 2249 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11am-9pm
Phone Number: +1 901-272-9377
Central BBQ, one of the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in the heart of Memphis. The restaurant has a casual, friendly atmosphere that is perfect for enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family. The interior is decorated with rustic wood paneling, black and white photographs of Memphis landmarks, and large flat-screen TVs showing sports games.
The menu at Central BBQ is focused on classic barbecue dishes like pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and chicken, all slow-cooked and smoked to perfection. The meats are rubbed with a blend of spices and cooked over hickory wood, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal. Central BBQ also offers a range of sides, including baked beans, coleslaw, mac and cheese, and potato salad, as well as a variety of sauces to complement the meats.
One of the signature dishes at Central BBQ is the “BBQ Nachos,” a unique take on the classic Tex-Mex dish. Instead of tortilla chips, the nachos are made with crispy fried pork skins, which are then topped with pulled pork, cheese, jalapenos, and a drizzle of barbecue sauce. The dish is a favorite among regulars and is a must-try for first-time visitors.
The restaurant also offers unique desserts, such as a smoked pecan pie and a banana pudding topped with crumbled vanilla wafers. In addition to the delicious food, Central BBQ is also known for its friendly and attentive service, with servers who are happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions about the menu.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Slow-smoked pork shoulder, pulled and topped with Central BBQ’s signature barbecue sauce, served on a soft bun. Comes with your choice of one side.
▣ Ribs (Half Rack or Full Rack) – Dry-rubbed with Central BBQ’s secret blend of spices and slow-cooked over hickory wood until tender and flavorful. Comes with your choice of two sides.
▣ BBQ Nachos – Crispy fried pork skins topped with smoked pulled pork, cheese, jalapenos, and a drizzle of Central BBQ’s barbecue sauce. Perfect for sharing as an appetizer or as a meal.
▣ Brisket – Slow-smoked beef brisket, sliced and served with Central BBQ’s signature barbecue sauce. Comes with your choice of two sides.
▣ Smoked Sausage – House-made sausage, smoked and sliced, served with Central BBQ’s mustard sauce. Comes with your choice of two sides.
All of these dishes are classic barbecue items that are prepared with care and expertise at Central BBQ. Whether you’re in the mood for tender pulled pork or smoky sausage, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings on the menu. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of Central BBQ’s signature sides, like the mac and cheese or the coleslaw, for a truly delicious experience.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the ribs and they were some of the best I’ve ever had! The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and the barbecue sauce had just the right amount of tanginess. The service was great too, very attentive and friendly.”
“The BBQ Nachos were out of this world! The combination of the crispy pork skins and the tender pulled pork was amazing. I also loved the variety of sauces they had available, each one was unique and delicious.”
“I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mac and cheese, and it was fantastic. The pork was perfectly cooked and the bun was soft and fresh. The mac and cheese was creamy and had just the right amount of cheese.”
In summary, Central BBQ is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for authentic Memphis-style barbecue in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. With delicious food, unique dishes, and friendly service, it’s no wonder why Central BBQ is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They rank amid the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Memphis for good reasons.
The Bar-B-Q Shop
Address: 1782 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104, United States
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-8pm; Sunday, closed
Phone Number: +1 901-272-1277
The Bar-B-Q Shop, among the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a popular barbecue restaurant located in the Midtown area of Memphis. The restaurant has a cozy, casual atmosphere, with wooden tables and chairs, brick walls, and vintage photographs of Memphis lining the walls. The aroma of smoked meat fills the air, making it clear that this is a place for serious barbecue enthusiasts.
The menu at The Bar-B-Q Shop features classic Memphis-style barbecue dishes like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, as well as some unique specialties. One of the most popular items on the menu is the “BBQ Spaghetti,” a dish that combines spaghetti noodles with a savory barbecue sauce and chunks of tender pulled pork. The restaurant also offers a range of sides, including baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, as well as a selection of homemade pies for dessert.
One unique aspect of The Bar-B-Q Shop is the fact that they use a dry rub instead of a sauce on their ribs. The rub is made with a secret blend of spices that gives the ribs a delicious smoky flavor and a crispy texture on the outside. Another unique feature of the restaurant is the outdoor seating area, which is a popular spot for diners to enjoy their meal on a sunny day.
The service at The Bar-B-Q Shop is friendly and efficient, with servers who are happy to provide recommendations and answer any questions about the menu. Diners can order at the counter and then find a seat, and their food will be brought out to them shortly thereafter.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Ribs – A half or full slab of dry-rubbed ribs that have been smoked to perfection. The dry rub is a secret blend of spices that gives the ribs a flavorful and crispy texture.
▣ BBQ Spaghetti – Spaghetti noodles tossed in a tangy and savory barbecue sauce and topped with chunks of tender pulled pork. This unique dish is a must-try for visitors to The Bar-B-Q Shop.
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Slow-cooked and hand-pulled pork shoulder served on a soft bun with your choice of sauce. Add a side of coleslaw to complete the classic barbecue sandwich experience.
▣ Brisket – Tender and juicy beef brisket that has been smoked for hours to lock in the flavor. Served with your choice of sauce and two sides.
▣ BBQ Nachos – Crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, chopped tomatoes, jalapenos, and your choice of pulled pork or chicken. A great starter or a meal on its own.
All of these dishes are prepared with care and expertise at The Bar-B-Q Shop, using high-quality ingredients and classic Memphis-style barbecue techniques. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, as the homemade pies are also a standout feature of the menu. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or a first-time visitor, there’s something for everyone at The Bar-B-Q Shop.
Customer Reviews:
“I had the BBQ Spaghetti and it was amazing! The sauce was so flavorful and the pork was tender and juicy. I also loved the baked beans and the homemade pie for dessert.”
“The dry-rubbed ribs were some of the best I’ve ever had. The spice blend was perfect and the meat was fall-off-the-bone tender. I also loved the coleslaw and the friendly service.”
“I ordered the pulled pork sandwich and it was delicious. The pork was so flavorful and the bun was soft and fresh. I also appreciated the outdoor seating area, which was a great spot to enjoy my meal.”
In summary, The Bar-B-Q Shop is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for delicious Memphis-style barbecue in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. With unique dishes like the BBQ Spaghetti and dry-rubbed ribs, as well as friendly service and a charming outdoor seating area, it’s no wonder why The Bar-B-Q Shop has been a local favorite for over 30 years. They deserve to be ranked among the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Memphis.
Corky’s BBQ
Address: 1740 N Germantown Pkwy, Cordova, TN 38016, United States
Hours: Monday-Sunday, 11am-9pm
Phone Number: +1 901-737-1988
Corky’s BBQ, one of the most popular Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is also a popular chain restaurant with multiple locations in the Memphis area. The Cordova location has a casual and family-friendly atmosphere, with wooden tables and chairs, a large brick fireplace, and vintage photographs of Memphis decorating the walls.
The menu at Corky’s BBQ features classic Memphis-style barbecue dishes like pulled pork, ribs, and brisket, as well as a variety of other options like chicken tenders, catfish, and salads. One of the signature items on the menu is the pulled pork sandwich, which features tender and smoky pulled pork topped with Corky’s signature barbecue sauce and served on a soft bun. The restaurant also offers a range of sides, including baked beans, coleslaw, and mac and cheese, as well as a selection of desserts like banana pudding and key lime pie.
One unique aspect of Corky’s BBQ is the variety of sauces they offer, each with a different flavor profile. There’s the classic “Original BBQ Sauce,” which is sweet and tangy, as well as the “Hot BBQ Sauce,” which adds a spicy kick to any dish. The restaurant also offers a “Vinegar BBQ Sauce” and a “Mustard BBQ Sauce” for those who want to try something different.
The service at Corky’s BBQ is friendly and efficient, with servers who are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations. Diners can order at the counter and then find a seat, and their food will be brought out to them shortly thereafter.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Slow-cooked pulled pork topped with Corky’s signature barbecue sauce and served on a soft bun. Comes with a side of your choice, such as baked beans or mac and cheese.
▣ Ribs (Half Rack or Full Rack) – Dry-rubbed with Corky’s secret blend of spices and smoked to perfection over hickory wood. Served with your choice of two sides.
▣ BBQ Nachos – Crispy tortilla chips topped with melted cheese, jalapenos, and your choice of pulled pork or chicken. Finished with Corky’s signature barbecue sauce.
▣ Catfish Platter – Fried catfish fillets served with hush puppies and your choice of two sides, such as coleslaw or french fries.
▣ BBQ Bologna Sandwich – Thick-cut bologna, smoked and grilled to perfection, topped with Corky’s barbecue sauce and served on a bun with pickles and onions. A unique take on a classic sandwich.
All of these dishes are prepared using high-quality ingredients and classic Memphis-style barbecue techniques. Corky’s also offers a variety of sides, sauces, and desserts to complement your meal. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional barbecue favorites or something a little more unique, Corky’s has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try one of their homemade pies, like the banana pudding or key lime pie, for a sweet and satisfying end to your meal.
Customer Reviews:
“I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with a side of mac and cheese, and it was delicious. The pork was tender and flavorful, and the mac and cheese was creamy and cheesy. The service was great too, very friendly and attentive.”
“The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender and had a great smoky flavor. I loved the variety of sauces that Corky’s offers, each one was unique and delicious. The coleslaw was also a standout side dish.”
“I ordered the catfish platter and it was fantastic. The fish was crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, and the hush puppies were delicious. The service was fast and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming.”
In summary, Corky’s BBQ is a great choice for anyone looking for classic Memphis-style barbecue in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. With signature dishes like the pulled pork sandwich, a variety of unique sauces, and friendly service, it’s no wonder why Corky’s BBQ is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. They stand out among the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis.
Payne’s Bar-B-Que
Address: 1762 Lamar Ave, Memphis, TN 38114, United States
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-6pm; Sunday-Monday, closed
Phone Number: +1 901-272-1523
Payne’s Bar-B-Que, amid the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a small, unassuming restaurant located in a residential area of Memphis. The interior is simple and no-frills, with a few wooden tables and chairs and a counter where customers can place their orders. But don’t be fooled by the humble appearance – Payne’s Bar-B-Que is known for serving up some of the best barbecue in Memphis.
The menu at Payne’s Bar-B-Que is focused on classic barbecue dishes like pulled pork, ribs, and sausage, all slow-cooked over hickory wood for maximum flavor. One of the signature items on the menu is the chopped pork sandwich, which features tender and smoky chopped pork topped with a tangy and spicy vinegar-based sauce. The restaurant also offers a range of sides, including baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw.
One unique aspect of Payne’s Bar-B-Que is the way they serve their sandwiches. Instead of a traditional soft bun, the sandwiches are served on slices of white bread, which helps to soak up the flavorful barbecue juices. Another unique feature of the restaurant is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a staff that is happy to chat with customers and share the history of the restaurant.
The service at Payne’s Bar-B-Que is efficient and no-frills, with customers placing their orders at the counter and then finding a seat to enjoy their meal. Despite the small size of the restaurant, the staff works quickly to ensure that everyone is served in a timely manner.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Chopped Pork Sandwich – Tender and flavorful chopped pork topped with a tangy and spicy vinegar-based sauce, served on slices of white bread. A classic Memphis-style barbecue dish.
▣ Ribs – Dry-rubbed with Payne’s secret blend of spices and smoked over hickory wood until tender and flavorful. Served with your choice of sauce and a side.
▣ Sausage Sandwich – Juicy and flavorful smoked sausage served on slices of white bread with your choice of sauce. Add a side of baked beans or coleslaw to complete the meal.
▣ Bar-B-Que Bologna – Thick-cut bologna, smoked and grilled to perfection, topped with Payne’s signature barbecue sauce and served on white bread. A unique take on a classic sandwich.
▣ Rib Tips – Tender and juicy pieces of rib meat, cut from the ends of the ribs and slow-cooked to perfection. Served with your choice of sauce and a side.
All of these dishes are prepared using traditional Memphis-style barbecue techniques and high-quality ingredients. Payne’s Bar-B-Que also offers a variety of sides, including potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans, as well as desserts like banana pudding and peach cobbler. Don’t forget to try a glass of their homemade sweet tea to wash down your meal.
Customer Reviews:
“The chopped pork sandwich was amazing! The meat was so tender and flavorful, and the vinegar-based sauce had just the right amount of kick. The potato salad was also delicious, and the service was friendly and welcoming.”
“I tried the ribs and they were some of the best I’ve ever had. The meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and had a great smoky flavor. The baked beans were also a standout side dish.”
“I ordered the sausage sandwich and it was fantastic. The sausage was juicy and packed with flavor, and the white bread was a great touch. The coleslaw was also really good, with a nice crunch and a tangy dressing.”
In summary, Payne’s Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Memphis-style barbecue in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. With delicious dishes like the chopped pork sandwich and ribs, as well as friendly service and a unique way of serving their sandwiches, it’s no wonder why Payne’s Bar-B-Que has been a local favorite for over 100 years. They can definitely be counted among the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis.
Cozy Corner BBQ
Address: 745 N Parkway, Memphis, TN 38105, United States
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-8pm; Sunday-Monday, closed
Phone Number: +1 901-527-9158
Cozy Corner BBQ, another of the top Barbecue restaurants in Memphis, is a family-owned barbecue restaurant located in the heart of Memphis. The restaurant has a cozy and casual atmosphere, with wooden tables and chairs, brick walls, and vintage photographs of Memphis decorating the walls.
The menu at Cozy Corner BBQ features classic Memphis-style barbecue dishes like ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, as well as some unique specialties. One of the signature items on the menu is the Cornish hen, a small whole chicken that has been marinated in Cozy Corner’s special seasoning blend and smoked to perfection. Another standout item is the BBQ spaghetti, a dish that combines spaghetti noodles with a savory barbecue sauce and chunks of tender pulled pork. The restaurant also offers a range of sides, including baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw.
One unique aspect of Cozy Corner BBQ is the fact that they smoke their meats using a combination of charcoal and hickory wood, which gives the meat a unique flavor and texture. Another unique feature of the restaurant is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, with a staff that is happy to chat with customers and share the history of the restaurant.
The service at Cozy Corner BBQ is efficient and friendly, with customers placing their orders at the counter and then finding a seat to enjoy their meal. Despite the busy lunch and dinner rushes, the staff works quickly to ensure that everyone is served in a timely manner.
Main Menu Items:
▣ Cornish Hen – A small whole chicken that has been marinated in Cozy Corner’s special seasoning blend and smoked to perfection over charcoal and hickory wood. Served with a slice of white bread to soak up the juices.
▣ BBQ Spaghetti – Spaghetti noodles tossed in a tangy and savory barbecue sauce and topped with chunks of tender pulled pork. A unique and delicious dish that’s a must-try for visitors to Cozy Corner BBQ.
▣ Ribs – Dry-rubbed with Cozy Corner’s signature seasoning blend and smoked over charcoal and hickory wood until tender and flavorful. Served with your choice of sauce and a side.
▣ Pulled Pork Sandwich – Slow-cooked and hand-pulled pork shoulder served on a soft bun with your choice of sauce. Add a side of coleslaw or baked beans to complete the classic barbecue sandwich experience.
▣ Brisket – Tender and juicy beef brisket that has been smoked for hours over charcoal and hickory wood to lock in the flavor. Served with your choice of sauce and two sides, such as potato salad or mac and cheese.
All of these dishes are prepared using Cozy Corner’s unique combination of charcoal and hickory wood smoking techniques, which give the meats a distinct and delicious flavor. The restaurant also offers a range of sides, including coleslaw, baked beans, and potato salad, as well as homemade desserts like peach cobbler and banana pudding. With friendly service and a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, Cozy Corner BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic Memphis-style barbecue.
Customer Reviews:
“The Cornish hen was amazing – so juicy and flavorful. The BBQ spaghetti was also really good, with a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The coleslaw was a standout side dish.”
“The ribs were some of the best I’ve ever had – perfectly smoked and seasoned. I also loved the baked beans and the friendly service.”
“I tried the pulled pork and it was delicious. The meat was so tender and had a great smoky flavor. The potato salad was also really good. Can’t wait to come back and try more dishes!”
In summary, Cozy Corner BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious Memphis-style barbecue in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. With unique dishes like the Cornish hen and BBQ spaghetti, as well as friendly service and a combination of charcoal and hickory wood smoking techniques, it’s no wonder why Cozy Corner BBQ has been a local favorite for over 40 years. They have earned the rank of the top 5 Barbecue restaurants in Memphis.
Whether you’re a Memphis local or just visiting the city, we highly recommend trying out some of these barbecue restaurants in Memphis to experience the best that Memphis-style barbecue has to offer. This is why they are the best restaurants in Memphis for barbecue.
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