Famous for its dry-rubbed ribs and smoked pulled pork, Peg Leg Porker offers a quintessential Nashville BBQ experience. The casual rooftop setting and high-quality meats make it a must-visit destination for enthusiasts seeking authentic, wood-smoked flavors.
Top BBQ Restaurants in Nashville Tennessee - June 2026
USA / Tennessee / Nashville
Discover the finest BBQ restaurants in Nashville, Tennessee, where authentic slow-smoked meats meet legendary Southern hospitality. From succulent ribs to tender brisket, explore the city's top-rated smokehouse destinations.
Authentic Tennessee-style dry-rubbed BBQ in the Gulch.
Details
- Year Founded: 2013
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16158296023
- Email: info@peglegporker.com
About the Company
Pros
- Excellent dry rub ribs
- Great rooftop atmosphere
Cons
- Limited indoor seating
- Can get crowded
Renowned for traditional whole-hog BBQ.
Details
- Year Founded: 2006
- Employees: 200-500
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16157429148
- Email: info@martinsbbqjoint.com
About the Company
Martin's is a cornerstone of the Nashville BBQ scene, specializing in whole-hog smoking. Their dedication to the craft and massive, flavorful portions keep locals and tourists coming back for their signature redneck tacos and sides.
Pros
- Authentic whole-hog smoking
- Spacious family-friendly venue
Cons
- Often long wait times
- Parking can be challenging
Nashville-style BBQ with a Southern flair.
Details
- Year Founded: 2011
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16152922055
- Email: contact@edleysbbq.com
About the Company
Edley's captures the essence of Nashville living with their scratch-made sides and perfectly smoked meats. Their "Tuck Special" and brisket are legendary, providing a warm, local neighborhood vibe that feels uniquely Tennessee.
Pros
- Fresh scratch-made sides
- Inviting local atmosphere
Cons
- Popular, so expect a line
- Limited parking
Texas-inspired craft BBQ in East Nashville.
Details
- Year Founded: 2018
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +16156799516
- Email: hello@shotgunwilliesbbq.com
About the Company
Bringing a taste of Texas to Tennessee, Shotgun Willie's is known for its incredible brisket and beef ribs. The focus on high-quality wood-smoked meats and simple, honest preparation makes it a top-tier choice for meat lovers.
Pros
- World-class beef brisket
- Authentic Texas flavor
Cons
- Sells out early
- Rustic seating
A historic downtown Nashville institution.
Details
- Year Founded: 1976
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +16152545715
- Email: info@jacksbarbque.com
About the Company
Located on Broadway, Jack's is a Nashville legend. It serves up classic pulled pork and ribs in a no-frills, counter-service environment. Perfect for a quick, authentic lunch while exploring the heart of the city.
Pros
- Great central location
- Classic, historic charm
Cons
- Very busy tourist area
- Fast-paced service style
Award-winning Memphis-style BBQ.
Details
- Year Founded: 2002
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16156781234
- Email: info@cbqmemphis.com
About the Company
Bringing the famous Memphis flavor to Nashville, Central BBQ excels with its dry-rubbed ribs and famous BBQ nachos. A consistent favorite, it delivers bold, savory tastes with a wide variety of signature sauces.
Pros
- Famous BBQ nachos
- Consistent quality
Cons
- Not local Nashville origin
- Casual atmosphere
Hidden gem serving traditional smokehouse meats.
Details
- Year Founded: 1996
- Employees: 1-10
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +16152554767
- Email: contact@bandcmarketbbq.com
About the Company
Located inside the Nashville Farmers Market, B & C is a true local favorite. Known for its generous portions and authentic pit-smoked flavors, it offers a simple, delicious meal that highlights traditional BBQ craft.
Pros
- Great value
- Convenient market location
Cons
- Limited hours (daytime)
- Open seating area
Elevated smokehouse dishes.
Details
- Year Founded: 2011
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $$$
- Phone: +16152263330
- Email: hello@butcherandbee.com
About the Company
While not a traditional BBQ joint, their commitment to smoked meats and slow-cooked preparations makes them a standout for modern BBQ lovers. Their fusion approach provides a refined, unique dining experience in East Nashville.
Pros
- Sophisticated menu
- High-quality sourcing
Cons
- More expensive
- Less traditional than standard BBQ
Sports bar vibes with reliable smoked BBQ.
Details
- Year Founded: 1985
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16158897000
- Email: info@scoreboardbar.com
About the Company
Combining a love for sports with solid smoked meats, Scoreboard is a great spot to grab a bite. Known for their pulled pork and classic sides, it's a relaxed environment ideal for catching a game while enjoying a hearty meal.
Pros
- Great for large groups
- Fun sports atmosphere
Cons
- Can be very noisy
- Standard menu options
Unique focus on smoked chicken dishes.
Details
- Year Founded: 2013
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16158913948
- Email: eat@smokinthighs.com
About the Company
Smokin Thighs offers a creative twist on BBQ, specializing in smoked chicken thighs rather than traditional pork or beef. Their menu is fresh, inventive, and perfect for those looking for something different in the Nashville food scene.
Pros
- Unique specialty menu
- Great outdoor patio
Cons
- Limited non-chicken options
- Casual setting
A long-standing local favorite family spot.
Details
- Year Founded: 1950
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +16158346555
- Email: info@bar-b-cutie.com
About the Company
A true Nashville tradition, Bar-B-Cutie has been serving families for decades. Their classic menu features favorites like chopped pork, fried okra, and house-made desserts in a friendly, comfortable dining room.
Pros
- Very family-friendly
- Classic, nostalgic taste
Cons
- Traditional style, not trendy
- Decor is dated
Simple, no-nonsense BBQ in Centennial Park.
Details
- Year Founded: 1989
- Employees: 1-10
- Price Range: $
- Phone: +16153291234
- Email: info@hogheaven.com
About the Company
Hog Heaven is a hidden treasure located right near the Parthenon. Known for their white sauce and great pulled pork, it's the perfect stop for a picnic-style meal in one of Nashville's best parks.
Pros
- Beautiful park location
- Legendary white sauce
Cons
- Small menu variety
- Outdoor seating primarily
Bar-b-que with a nightlife edge.
Details
- Year Founded: 2014
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16152554767
- Email: info@driftersnashville.com
About the Company
Drifters offers a great mix of high-quality smoked meats and a lively bar atmosphere. Their brisket tacos and upbeat service make it a top destination for those who want their BBQ with a side of live music and drinks.
Pros
- Fun, late-night vibe
- Great location
Cons
- Can get loud
- Wait times for food
Authentic, reliable BBQ in the suburbs.
Details
- Year Founded: 2005
- Employees: 11-50
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16153703310
- Email: contact@judgebeansbbq.com
About the Company
Offering a taste of true Southern BBQ, Judge Bean's serves up consistently great meat and comfort sides. It’s a reliable choice for locals looking for a family meal or catering options without the downtown hassle.
Pros
- Consistent quality
- Great catering service
Cons
- Further from downtown
- Standard atmosphere
BBQ combined with the Broadway honky tonk experience.
Details
- Year Founded: 2000
- Employees: 50-200
- Price Range: $$
- Phone: +16152441777
- Email: info@rippysbarandgrill.com
About the Company
For visitors wanting to pair their BBQ with live country music, Rippy's is the place to be. While catering to a tourist crowd, the ribs and pulled pork are surprisingly authentic and satisfy any cravings while you enjoy the show.
Pros
- Located on Broadway
- Great live music scene
Cons
- Very tourist-heavy
- Can be difficult to get a table
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Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
What is the best BBQ style in Nashville? Nashville is famous for its diverse BBQ culture, featuring a blend of Memphis-style dry rubs and classic pulled pork.
Do Nashville BBQ spots require reservations? Most popular BBQ restaurants in Nashville operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially the high-traffic smokehouses.
Are there vegetarian options at Nashville BBQ restaurants? Yes, most top-tier BBQ spots offer delicious vegetarian-friendly sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.
What is the most famous meat in Nashville BBQ? While brisket and ribs are staples, Nashville-style pulled pork is arguably the most iconic offering in 2026.
Are these BBQ restaurants family-friendly? Absolutely, the majority of Nashville's top BBQ destinations provide a welcoming, casual atmosphere suitable for families.
Do these restaurants offer takeout and delivery? Yes, nearly all top-rated Nashville BBQ establishments provide convenient takeout and local delivery services.