Central BBQ is a staple in the Memphis food scene. Their slow-smoked ribs and world-famous barbecue nachos set the standard for local smokehouse excellence. A must-visit destination for any serious BBQ enthusiast.
Top BBQ Restaurants in Memphis Tennessee - June 2026
USA / Tennessee / Memphis
Discover the finest BBQ restaurants in Memphis, Tennessee, famous for their authentic dry rub ribs and slow-smoked meats. Explore our curated list of top-rated smokehouses and local favorites in the heart of the city.
Legendary Memphis-style barbecue known for award-winning ribs and nachos.
Details
- Year Founded: 2002
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19012729372
- Email: info@cbqmemphis.com
About the Company
Pros
- World-famous nachos
- Expertly smoked meats
Cons
- Long wait times
- Limited parking
Historic downtown spot famous for charcoal-broiled dry rub ribs.
Details
- Year Founded: 1948
- Employees: 50-100
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +19015232746
- Email: info@hogsfly.com
About the Company
Famous for their unique dry-rubbed ribs, The Rendezvous is a Memphis institution. Located in a downtown alleyway, it offers an authentic atmosphere and a dining experience that defines the city's unique culinary history.
Pros
- Iconic atmosphere
- Signature dry rub
Cons
- Can be crowded
- Cash preferred
Casual smokehouse serving delicious Cornish hens and rib tips.
Details
- Year Founded: 1977
- Employees: 10-50
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +19015279158
- Email: contact@cozycornerbbq.com
About the Company
Cozy Corner is beloved for its smoked Cornish hens and tender rib tips. It provides an unpretentious, home-style environment where the quality of the smoke and the secret sauces take center stage.
Pros
- Unique smoked hens
- Authentic local feel
Cons
- Small venue
- Limited menu items
Quality barbecue offering a variety of meats and classic Southern sides.
Details
- Year Founded: 2004
- Employees: 20-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19017513615
- Email: info@oneandonlybbq.com
About the Company
One & Only BBQ consistently delivers high-quality smoked meats. Known for their balanced sauce and tender brisket, they provide a modern take on traditional Memphis barbecue that appeals to both locals and tourists.
Pros
- Excellent brisket
- Good side variety
Cons
- Higher price point
- Busy during lunch
Traditional family-owned smokehouse serving classic pork sandwiches.
Details
- Year Founded: 1983
- Employees: 10-30
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +19017747444
- Email: info@aandrbbq.com
About the Company
A&R Bar-B-Q is a testament to the classic Memphis sandwich. With a focus on slow-cooked pork and a sauce that captures the true essence of Southern BBQ, it remains a favorite for traditionalists.
Pros
- Classic pork sandwich
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Basic decor
- Simple menu
Converted grocery store turned BBQ hub serving legendary dry-rub ribs.
Details
- Year Founded: 1981
- Employees: 50-100
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19017545540
- Email: contact@commissarybbq.com
About the Company
Housed in a former general store, Germantown Commissary offers a rustic charm paired with top-tier ribs. Their massive portions and distinct seasoning make it a must-visit spot in the Greater Memphis area.
Pros
- Historic atmosphere
- Generous portions
Cons
- Located outside city core
- Often very busy
Beale Street destination for ribs, steaks, and live music.
Details
- Year Founded: 1991
- Employees: 50-150
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +19015263637
- Email: info@bluescitycafe.com
About the Company
Located on iconic Beale Street, Blues City Cafe pairs live music with great BBQ. Their ribs are consistently fall-off-the-bone tender, making it the perfect spot for a quintessential Memphis night out.
Pros
- Prime location
- Great live music
Cons
- Tourist-heavy
- Loud atmosphere
Renowned for its unique neon-yellow slaw and chopped pork sandwich.
Details
- Year Founded: 1972
- Employees: 5-15
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +19012721523
- Email: info@paynesbbq.com
About the Company
Payne's is a local legend, famous for their chopped pork sandwich topped with their signature neon-yellow mustard slaw. It is an authentic, no-frills experience that every BBQ purist must try.
Pros
- Legendary slaw
- Authentic experience
Cons
- Limited seating
- Cash only
One of the oldest barbecue spots in the city with a classic buffet.
Details
- Year Founded: 1922
- Employees: 30-70
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19013601963
- Email: info@leonardsbarbecue.com
About the Company
Leonard's is a historic name in Memphis BBQ. Known for their extensive buffet and traditional pit-smoked techniques, they have been serving generations of families the true taste of Tennessee.
Pros
- Traditional buffet
- Rich history
Cons
- Older facility
- Menu is traditional only
Family-run smokehouse known for their signature sauce and pulled pork.
Details
- Year Founded: 1979
- Employees: 20-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19017752304
- Email: info@interstatebbq.com
About the Company
Interstate Bar-B-Que serves up some of the most consistent pulled pork in Memphis. Their family-secret sauce adds a complex depth of flavor that keeps locals coming back for more.
Pros
- Exceptional sauce
- Friendly service
Cons
- Parking can be tight
- Simple surroundings
A widely recognized name for high-quality ribs and casual dining.
Details
- Year Founded: 1984
- Employees: 100-300
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19016859744
- Email: info@corkysbbq.com
About the Company
Corky's has become synonymous with Memphis BBQ excellence on a larger scale. Their ribs are meticulously prepared and their sauces are sold worldwide, showcasing consistent quality in every bite.
Pros
- Consistent quality
- Great for large groups
Cons
- Commercial feel
- Busy service
Known for their famous BBQ spaghetti and excellent smoked meats.
Details
- Year Founded: 1984
- Employees: 20-40
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19012721277
- Email: info@thebbqshop.com
About the Company
The BBQ Shop is the birthplace of the unique Memphis dish: BBQ Spaghetti. Beyond the pasta, their meats are expertly smoked, making it a culinary destination for those looking for something different.
Pros
- Unique BBQ spaghetti
- Creative menu
Cons
- Limited parking
- Casual seating only
Well-regarded spot for high-quality ribs and authentic sandwiches.
Details
- Year Founded: 1978
- Employees: 10-25
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +19015299440
- Email: contact@tomsbbq.com
About the Company
Tom's is a true neighborhood favorite. They focus on perfecting the basics, with juicy pork and ribs that reflect the deep-rooted BBQ traditions of the Memphis area.
Pros
- Authentic flavors
- Reasonable prices
Cons
- Small venue
- Limited hours
Championship-style barbecue with a wide selection of signature sauces.
Details
- Year Founded: 2000
- Employees: 50-100
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19017551022
- Email: info@wholehogcafe.com
About the Company
Whole Hog Cafe brings a competition-level approach to every platter. With multiple award-winning sauces to choose from, it’s a paradise for those who like to experiment with flavor profiles.
Pros
- Variety of sauces
- Competition quality
Cons
- Modern chain feel
- Service varies
A staple in the community serving classic Memphis style BBQ.
Details
- Year Founded: 1988
- Employees: 30-60
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +19015219744
- Email: info@neelysbbq.com
About the Company
Neely's is a classic choice for a traditional lunch or dinner. With a long-standing reputation in the community, they offer consistently good food in a welcoming, unpretentious setting.
Pros
- Classic recipes
- Friendly atmosphere
Cons
- Simple menu
- Basic amenities
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
- What is Memphis-style BBQ known for? Memphis-style BBQ is world-famous for its dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork, cooked slowly in a pit.
- Which are the best areas for BBQ in Memphis? The downtown and midtown areas are home to many legendary smokehouses.
- Do these restaurants offer takeout? Yes, most top-rated Memphis BBQ spots offer convenient takeout and delivery options.
- Is there a difference between wet and dry ribs? Yes, 'dry' ribs are seasoned with a spice rub, while 'wet' ribs are basted with barbecue sauce.
- Should I make a reservation for BBQ in Memphis? Most authentic BBQ joints in Memphis operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- What sides are typically served with Memphis BBQ? Classic sides include coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, and sometimes BBQ spaghetti.