The 15 Most Popular BBQ Spots In Memphis
Memphis barbecue is legendary for its smoky ribs, tangy sauces, and mouthwatering flavors that keep folks coming back for more.
The city’s BBQ spots serve up more than just food. They offer a taste of culture, history, and pure passion grilled to perfection.
From classic joints to hidden gems, Memphis knows how to bring the heat and flavor, making every bite a smoky celebration you won’t want to miss.
1. Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous
Hidden in a downtown alley since 1948, this Memphis institution serves world-famous dry-rub ribs in a basement decorated with quirky antiques and memorabilia.
Celebrities and presidents make pilgrimages here for the signature charcoal-broiled ribs dusted with a secret spice blend.
The no-frills atmosphere adds to the charm – plastic plates, paper napkins, and some of the friendliest servers in town.
2. Central BBQ
Lines form early at this local favorite where the motto “smoke is our sauce” perfectly captures their philosophy. Central’s pork shoulders spend 14 hours in the smoker before meeting your plate.
Founded in 2002, they’ve expanded to multiple locations but maintained quality that keeps winning awards. Their mac and cheese might steal the spotlight from the meat – a bold statement in a BBQ town.
3. Payne’s Bar-B-Q
Family-run since 1972 in a converted gas station, Payne’s serves chopped pork sandwiches that create lifelong devotees. The neon-yellow mustard slaw provides a tangy contrast to the smoky meat.
Flora Payne still oversees operations, ensuring every sandwich meets her exacting standards.
The humble surroundings fool first-timers, but regulars know appearances mean nothing when the food creates this much joy.
4. The Bar-B-Q Shop
Inventors of the famous “Dancing Pigs” BBQ sauce, this Midtown gem began as Brady & Lil’s Bar-B-Q in the 1950s. Current owners Eric and Tina Vernon maintain traditional recipes while adding their own flair.
Their Texas Toast BBQ sandwich revolutionized how Memphians enjoy pulled pork.
The restaurant’s warm wood paneling and checkered tablecloths create a homey atmosphere where generations of families celebrate special occasions.
5. Cozy Corner BBQ
Surviving a devastating fire in 2015, this family-owned treasure came roaring back stronger than ever.
Desiree Robinson, the matriarch who took over after her husband’s passing, became the first African American woman inducted into the Barbecue Hall of Fame.
Their Cornish game hens steal the spotlight from traditional pork offerings. Smoke-infused birds with crispy skin and tender meat convert even dedicated rib enthusiasts.
6. Tops Bar-B-Q
Locals know the orange and brown Tops signs mean affordable, consistent BBQ without the tourist crowds.
Since 1952, this Memphis chain has maintained quality across multiple locations while keeping prices remarkably reasonable.
Their hamburgers get as much love as their BBQ – a sacrilege anywhere else in town.
The no-frills approach focuses on what matters: perfectly smoked meat, fresh-made coleslaw, and service fast enough for lunch breaks.
7. Interstate Bar-B-Que
Founded by Jim Neely in 1979, Interstate pioneered BBQ spaghetti, now a Memphis staple. This South Memphis institution sits near the interstate that gives it its name, drawing hungry travelers and locals alike.
Family feuds created several Neely-owned restaurants across town, but the original maintains its distinctive charm.
Their combo plates offer the perfect BBQ sampler for newcomers wanting to experience multiple meats in one glorious sitting.
8. Germantown Commissary
From humble country store to BBQ destination, this suburban gem keeps traditions alive since 1981.
Located in upscale Germantown, the restaurant’s rustic charm belies its sophisticated approach to classic BBQ techniques.
Deviled eggs accompany every dinner plate – a Southern touch that regulars adore. Their banana pudding has its own following, with some folks claiming it’s worth the drive even if you skip the BBQ entirely.
9. One & Only BBQ
Starting as a tiny takeout spot in 2011, One & Only quickly expanded to multiple locations due to overwhelming demand.
Their smoked turkey rivals the traditional pork options, converting health-conscious diners to BBQ believers. Homemade potato chips fried to perfection accompany every sandwich.
The baked beans, swimming with chunks of smoked meat, often cause friendly disputes over who gets the last spoonful at shared tables.
10. A&R Bar-B-Que
Brothers Andrew and Rose founded this South Memphis staple in 1983, creating a community gathering spot where judges and construction workers sit side by side.
Their sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Fried pickles here aren’t just appetizers but essential experiences.
The restaurant’s warm hospitality makes first-timers feel like regulars, with staff remembering orders and checking if you need extra napkins before you realize it yourself.
11. BallHoggerz BBQ
Newer to the scene but making a massive impact, this Black-owned business started as a food truck before opening a brick-and-mortar location.
Their smoked wings have created a cult following among Memphis BBQ aficionados. Owner Taurean Daughtry brings contemporary flair to traditional techniques.
The loaded BBQ nachos, piled high with pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and their signature sauce, have become Instagram stars in their own right.
12. Elwood’s Shack
Tucked behind a Lowe’s hardware store in a literal shack, this unexpected gem proves great BBQ can happen anywhere.
Owner Tim Bednarski smokes some of the city’s best brisket – a Texas-style triumph in pork-centric Memphis. Breakfast brings lines of locals craving smoked salmon bagels alongside traditional BBQ.
The tiny kitchen somehow produces an expansive menu spanning from trout tacos to pizza, with BBQ remaining the star attraction.
13. Bain Barbecue
Bryant Bain brings Central Texas-style barbecue to Memphis with spectacular results. His brisket, smoked for 12+ hours over post oak, creates a perfect bark that locals now line up for before the 11am opening.
Operating Thursday through Sunday only adds to the mystique – when they’re sold out, that’s it until next week.
The simple menu focuses on perfect execution rather than endless options, a philosophy that’s earned them devoted fans.
14. The Commissary
Collierville’s BBQ landmark has served perfect pulled pork since 1977. The sweet potato fries with cinnamon sugar create an unlikely but perfect companion to savory smoked meats.
Walker Taylor’s commitment to consistency means your sandwich tastes identical to the one your parents enjoyed decades ago.
Their BBQ nachos pioneered a trend now found across Memphis, but purists insist the original remains unmatched in balance and quality.
15. Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant
Famous for their pink Cadillac shuttle service, Marlowe’s brings Elvis-inspired flair to the BBQ scene. Located near Graceland, they’ve served tourists and locals alike since 1974.
Their ribs feature a distinctive char that creates textural contrast with the tender meat beneath. The Elvis Room, decorated with King memorabilia, offers themed dining for fans.
Don’t miss their twice-baked potato – a loaded masterpiece that complements the smoky ribs perfectly.