15 Tennessee BBQ Joints So Beloved, The Wait Is Always Worth It

Tennessee has earned its stripes as one of the South’s premier barbecue destinations, where pitmasters take their craft seriously and locals know exactly where to find the best smoked meats.

From Memphis to Nashville and beyond, these legendary joints have built devoted followings over decades of perfecting recipes and techniques.

Sure, you might stand in line for a while, but one bite of tender, smoky perfection makes every minute worthwhile.

1. Peg Leg Porker, Nashville

Lines form early at this Nashville favorite, where whole-hog barbecue takes center stage. Smoked low and slow over hickory wood, every cut arrives packed with flavor that locals can’t get enough of.

Dry-rubbed ribs practically fall off the bone, while pulled pork sandwiches come piled high on soft buns. Sides like bourbon baked beans and mac and cheese round out plates beautifully.

People travel from across the city just to grab lunch here, often calling ahead to beat the rush.

2. Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, Nolensville

West Tennessee whole-hog barbecue shines at this Nolensville spot, where traditional pit-smoking methods create incredibly tender meat. Regulars swear by the authenticity and won’t settle for anything less.

Brisket gets plenty of love too, sliced thick and served with tangy sauce on the side. Cornbread muffins and slaw provide perfect balance to the rich, smoky flavors.

Weekends bring crowds that spill onto the patio, but nobody seems to mind waiting when the payoff tastes this good.

3. Shotgun Willie’s BBQ, Nashville

Texas-style barbecue finds a home in Nashville at this beloved joint, where brisket reigns supreme. Pitmasters trim and smoke each cut to juicy perfection, creating bark that’s downright addictive.

Sausage links snap with every bite, while ribs deliver a peppery punch that keeps folks coming back. Simple sides let the meat do the talking without unnecessary fuss.

Lunch rushes can get intense, especially midweek when office workers descend for their barbecue fix.

4. Edley’s Bar-B-Que, 12 South, Nashville

Nestled in trendy 12 South, this barbecue haven draws neighborhood regulars and tourists alike. Pulled pork arrives smoky and moist, perfect for piling onto plates or stuffing into sandwiches.

Banana pudding has become legendary in its own right, offering sweet relief after savory indulgence. Wings tossed in Alabama white sauce provide a tangy twist on traditional offerings.

Parking can be tricky during peak hours, but most people happily walk a few blocks for food this satisfying.

5. Payne’s Bar-B-Q, Memphis

Memphis barbecue history lives on at this unassuming spot, where chopped pork sandwiches have built a cult following. Meat gets chopped by hand, mixed with tangy sauce, and served on white bread with slaw.

There’s nothing fancy about the setup, just honest barbecue done right for generations. Locals know to arrive early before they run out for the day.

First-timers often look surprised by the simple approach, then take one bite and immediately understand the hype surrounding this place.

6. Cozy Corner BBQ, Memphis

Cornish hens set this Memphis institution apart from typical barbecue joints, offering something wonderfully different. Smoked until tender and glazed with sauce, they’ve become the signature dish everyone orders.

Ribs still hold their own though, arriving with plenty of char and spice. Beans cooked low and slow provide hearty accompaniment to any plate.

Families gather here on weekends, filling tables while swapping stories about how long they’ve been coming to this neighborhood gem.

7. The Bar-B-Q Shop, Memphis

Memphis-style ribs reach their peak at this Midtown favorite, where dry rub meets wet sauce in perfect harmony. Competition trophies line the walls, testament to decades of barbecue excellence.

Pulled pork nachos have earned their own fan club, loaded with cheese and jalapeños. Barbecue spaghetti might sound unusual, but one taste converts even the most skeptical diners.

Lunch hours bring professionals from nearby offices, while evenings attract families settling in for leisurely meals together.

8. Central BBQ, Memphis

Multiple locations across Memphis prove this barbecue joint’s popularity, but quality remains consistent everywhere. Dry-rubbed ribs showcase traditional Memphis style, while pulled pork sandwiches satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Barbecue nachos pile high with toppings, creating shareable plates perfect for groups. Sweet tea flows freely, washing down smoky flavors with southern sweetness.

Weeknight dinners can get surprisingly busy, especially when locals crave comfort food after long days at work.

9. Germantown Commissary, Germantown

Country charm meets serious barbecue at this Germantown landmark, housed in a building that feels authentically old-school. Ribs come out juicy and tender, with just enough char to add texture.

Catfish appears on the menu too, fried golden and crispy for those wanting seafood alongside their barbecue. Coleslaw stays crisp and tangy, cutting through richness beautifully.

Families make this a regular stop, appreciating the relaxed atmosphere where kids can be kids without worry.

10. Charles Vergos’ Rendezvous, Memphis

Downtown Memphis hides this legendary spot in a basement, where dry-rubbed ribs have been served since 1948. Charcoal-grilled rather than smoked, they offer a different take on traditional barbecue that’s become iconic.

Seasoning hits hard with Greek-inspired spices, creating layers of flavor. Red beans and rice provide hearty sides that complement the ribs perfectly.

Tourists and locals mix freely here, united by appreciation for barbecue that breaks the mold while staying delicious.

11. Jim Neely’s Interstate Bar-B-Que, Memphis

Memphis barbecue royalty runs this longtime favorite, where recipes have been perfected over generations. Ribs get brushed with tangy sauce that’s become famous throughout the region.

Pulled pork sandwiches arrive messy and magnificent, requiring plenty of napkins. Baked beans and slaw round out plates with familiar comfort.

Lunch crowds pack the place daily, with takeout orders flying out the door just as fast as dine-in meals get served.

12. Leonard’s Pit Barbecue, Cordova

A giant wooden pig greets visitors at this Cordova institution, signaling serious barbecue ahead. Pulled pork sandwiches have been the star since the 1920s, earning legendary status across Tennessee.

Sauce strikes a balance between sweet and tangy without overwhelming the meat. Pit-smoked over hickory wood, everything carries authentic flavor that can’t be rushed.

Drive-through lines stretch long during dinner rush, but counter service inside often moves faster for those willing to park.

13. Corky’s Ribs & BBQ, Memphis

Baby back ribs have made this Memphis chain famous far beyond Tennessee’s borders. Slow-cooked until tender, they practically melt off the bone with each bite.

Pulled pork gets chopped fresh throughout the day, staying moist and flavorful. Barbecue beans and potato salad provide classic sides that never disappoint.

Multiple locations mean shorter waits than some competitors, but quality stays reliable wherever you go for your barbecue fix.

14. Sugar’s Ribs, Chattanooga

Chattanooga’s barbecue scene centers around this local favorite, where ribs take top billing. Hickory smoke infuses every bite, while dry rub adds layers of spice and flavor.

Pulled chicken offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste. Green beans cooked southern-style and cornbread provide homestyle accompaniments.

Weekend afternoons bring families and friends gathering for meals that stretch into hours of conversation and laughter over shared plates.

15. Rib & Loin, Brainerd, Chattanooga

Brainerd residents consider this their neighborhood barbecue treasure, serving generous portions at reasonable prices. Ribs come sauced or dry, letting diners choose their preferred style.

Brisket joins the menu with tender slices that showcase proper smoking technique. Fried okra and hush puppies add southern flair to any meal.

Regulars greet staff by name, creating a welcoming atmosphere where newcomers quickly feel like part of the family gathered around good food.