Top Rated BBQ Restaurants in Memphis, TN

Discover Memphis smoke and soul. This friendly guide serves as a simple roadmap to the city’s signature flavors. You’ll learn what makes each pitmaster and plate special for visitors and locals alike.

We set the scene for why Memphis is famous for barbecue and how pork, ribs, chicken, and brisket shape the city’s taste. Expect easy-to-skim picks that balance heritage spots and rising favorites.

Find what to order at each stop, from dry ribs to sauced plates, plus insider tips on sides that people swear by. We also note specialties, value, and portion size so you can match appetite and schedule to the right restaurant.

Plan a relaxed crawl that hits several joints memphis visitors rave about without feeling rushed. Whether this is your first visit or you return often, you’ll get clear, practical advice and a sense of how great barbecue fits into local culture.

Key Takeaways

Memphis blends pork, ribs, chicken, and brisket into memorable plates.
Choices include classic counters and lively dining rooms.
Order local favorites and rely on insider side tips.
Portion and value notes help match your appetite.
Plan a relaxed crawl to sample multiple joints.

Why Memphis barbecue matters right now

Memphis barbecue still feels alive because pitmasters mix deep tradition with fresh ideas. Lines form for smoky staples even as chefs tweak a menu to keep flavors current.

Pork takes the spotlight here, but you’ll also find thoughtful nods to beef and turkey. That wider palette reflects a Southern pantry that welcomes every style done right.

Many shops favor dry rubs so spice and smoke lead, while sauce waits on the side or gets a light brush to complement the bark. This balance keeps each bite layered and bright.

Visit different neighborhoods and you’ll taste how each joint interprets the same meats. From fine-ground rubs to bolder wood smoke, variety lives in simple choices.

Generous portions and quick midday service make it easy to enjoy great barbecue during a museum run or a music break. The scene stays welcoming and social, with people gathering around familiar aromas and warm hospitality.

Top rated bbq restaurants memphis tn: the essential list

If you want to sample classic smoke and local twists, start with these neighborhood legends. Each spot below earns a mention for a signature plate, consistent service, or a memorable menu idea.

Central BBQ — smoked wings, ribs, and citywide catering

Central BBQ is a crowd-pleaser for fans who want smoked wings and tender ribs. They offer delivery and full-service catering for business luncheons, private parties, and weddings.

For catering-only questions call (901) 527-9990 to plan the menu and logistics.

Cozy Corner — Cornish game hen and bbq bologna culture

Cozy Corner blends soul and smoke at 735 N. Parkway. Try the beloved bbq bologna or a Cornish game hen for a true neighborhood flavor.

Hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00am–8:00pm. Note the posted closure dates if you’re timing a visit.

The Bar-B-Q Shop, Payne’s, Leonard’s, and Germantown highlights

The Bar-B-Q Shop draws loyalists for bbq spaghetti, where sauce complements bark without overwhelming it.

Payne’s Bar-B-Q is known for a chopped pork sandwich crowned with neon-green slaw. Leonard’s Pit keeps pulled pork tradition alive. Germantown Commissary claims the local origin of bbq nachos, a fun starter before ribs or a combo.

Options range from smoked turkey to beef brisket and dry half or half-sauced ribs.
Scan each menu for daily specials and location details before you go.

What to order: ribs, pork, brisket, and can’t-miss sides

A smart order mixes contrast: smoky ribs, tender pork, and a bright side to cut the richness.

Ribs your way: dry, sauced, or half-and-half

Ribs often arrive with a dry rub that highlights smoke and spice. Try a dry rack first to taste the bark.

Ask for a dry half and a sauced half to compare how sweetness or heat changes each bite.

Pork perfection: pulled, chopped, and pork sandwiches with slaw

Well-made pulled pork should stay juicy and pull into soft strands. A pork sandwich crowned with slaw adds crunch and tang.

If you prefer sauce mixed in, order a bbq sandwich for built-in flavor that travels well on a crawl.

Beyond pork: beef brisket, sausage, smoked turkey, and chicken

Look for brisket with a peppery bark and a bend that shows tenderness. Sausage brings snap and spice, and smoked turkey keeps poultry moist while carrying the rub.

Mix meats to sample distinct textures and flavors in one visit.

Memphis-made sides and snacks: tamales, slaw, nachos, and BBQ spaghetti

Tamales and bbq spaghetti make lively sides that pair beautifully with ribs and pulled pork. Finish with pickles or a crisp salad to balance the plate.

Item	Best For	Serve Style
Ribs	Smoke and bark lovers	Dry, sauced, or dry half / half
Pulled pork	Juicy shredded texture	Pork sandwich with slaw or plate
Brisket & Sausage	Beef flavor and spicy snap	Sliced brisket / link or chopped sausage
Smoked turkey	Lean, smoky poultry	Whole slices or sandwich
Sides	Balance and contrast	Tamales, bbq spaghetti, slaw, salad

When and where to go: hours, locations, and catering

Simple logistics — addresses, hours, and catering contacts — keep a food-focused day stress-free. Plan stops by checking each location’s hours and what items are available that day.

Cozy Corner hours and address

Cozy Corner is at 735 N. Parkway and is easy to reach from Downtown or Midtown. Hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00am–8:00pm. Call (901) 527-9158 for updates.

Note: a posted closure runs July 4–21 with reopening on July 22 — always check notices before you travel.

Central BBQ locations and catering for any event

Central BBQ offers delivery and full-service options for luncheons, private parties, and weddings. The catering-only line, (901) 527-9990, can review portions, timing, and a flexible menu that fits your event.

Navigating busy times: lunch rush vs. dinner service

Beat the lunch rush by arriving early or late afternoon, then return for dinner when smokers have fresh meat ready. On game days expect crowds; call ahead for specials like turkey or limited cuts.

Map drive times and parking when visiting multiple locations in one day.
Grab a quick sandwich or slaw-topped option to save time, or share a tray with family to sample more.

Local specialties Memphis made famous

Local creations often turn simple pantry staples into dishes that tell a neighborhood’s story.

The Bar-B-Q Shop’s twist on spaghetti

The Bar-B-Q Shop claims the original bbq spaghetti: tender spaghetti tossed with a tangy, smoky sauce and chopped meat. This hearty dish works as a shareable starter or a full side when you want variety.

Germantown Commissary’s blueprint nachos

Germantown Commissary is known for bbq nachos and tamales. Their nachos pile tortilla chips with smoked meat, a generous melt of cheese, jalapeños, and a sauce drizzle. Order one to split before ribs.

Payne’s chopped pork sandwich with slaw

Payne’s serves a chopped pork sandwich stacked high with pulled pork and a bright-green slaw. The slaw adds crunch, vinegar, and balance in every bite.

The spaghetti’s texture should be al dente to stand up to sauce and meat.
Ask for a half portion or share to pace a crawl.
Cheese on nachos adds richness; a side of pickles resets the palate.

Plan your Memphis BBQ crawl today

Plan a short route that lets you taste different styles without overdoing the portions. Start by choosing three nearby stops so travel is quick and the focus stays on flavor. Pick one place for an opener, one mid-stop, and one final sit-down.

Sample route: Downtown to Midtown to Germantown

Downtown: Share a half order of ribs and a small nachos plate with cheese to kick things off. This keeps the group happy and leaves room for more.

Midtown: Split a half rack and a chicken quarter. Ask for sauce on the side and compare bites. Add a slice of brisket or a turkey plate if you want more meats variety.

Germantown: Finish with slab ribs to share and a couple of sides. Catfish works well between smoky courses as a palate refresher.

Vegetarian options: look for portabella plates or veggie sides to include everyone.
If time is tight, order a dry half at one stop and a sauced half at another to compare styles quickly.
Cluster locations to cut drive time and end at a spot with seating for an easy final meal.

Stop	Suggested Order	Why
Downtown	Half ribs + nachos with cheese	Shareable opener; light and fun
Midtown	Half rack + chicken quarter	Compare dry vs. sauced; balanced meal
Germantown	Slab ribs + sides	Finish strong; room to relax

Conclusion

Conclusion

End the day with small portions and shared sandwiches to sample more without waste. Start with pulled pork and a plate of ribs, then add a slice of beef brisket to compare how beef and pork carry smoke differently.

Include chicken, smoked turkey, or sausage for contrast. Bring Cozy Corner into your route and try a spaghetti side or a slaw-topped sandwich for local flair.

Ask for a slab or a half rack to share, use the menu as a guide, and remember staff suggestions. The best joints memphis offer mix quality, warmth, and lots of cheese- and pickle-friendly bites—so plan to come back for another meal.

FAQ

What makes Memphis barbecue unique?

Memphis-style barbecue focuses on pork—especially ribs and pulled pork—served either dry with a spice rub or sauced. You’ll also find local twists like BBQ spaghetti, BBQ nachos, and chopped pork sandwiches topped with slaw that reflect the city’s long smoker tradition and regional flavors.

Which spots are known for specific dishes mentioned in the list?

Central BBQ is famous for smoked wings and ribs and offers citywide catering. Cozy Corner is best known for its Cornish game hen and BBQ bologna. The Bar-B-Q Shop serves its signature BBQ spaghetti. Payne’s shines with its chopped pork sandwich and slaw. Leonard’s and Germantown Commissary are longtime destinations for pulled pork sandwiches and BBQ nachos, respectively.

How should I order ribs—dry, sauced, or half-and-half?

Try the dry rub if you want bold smoke and crust, go with sauce if you prefer tang and sweetness, or choose half-and-half to sample both. Many locals recommend starting with a dry half to appreciate the rub, then adding sauce on the side.

Are there good non-pork options at these places?

Yes. Most joints offer beef brisket, smoked turkey, sausage, and chicken. You’ll also find sides like tamales, slaw, and salads to balance the meal. Germantown Commissary and Central BBQ typically have wider menus for mixed groups.

What are popular sides to pair with a pork sandwich or ribs?

Classic pairings include coleslaw, baked beans, fries, potato salad, and tamales. Don’t miss regional specialties like BBQ spaghetti and nachos when available. Cheese or extra sauce can turn sides into a hearty complement to meat plates.

Do these restaurants offer catering or large-tray orders?

Yes. Central BBQ and several other well-known spots provide catering and party trays. Contact the location directly for menus, minimum orders, and delivery or pickup options—especially for weekend events and large groups.

When are the busiest times to visit—lunch or dinner?

Lunch rushes are busy on weekdays, and evenings draw larger crowds, especially on weekends. Plan for lines during special events and game days. Arriving early or ordering online for pickup can save time.

Are there vegetarian or mushroom options like portabella on the menus?

Options vary by house. Some places offer grilled portabella, salads, or cheese-based dishes, but vegetarian choices tend to be limited. Call ahead if you need meat-free preparations or special substitutions.

Can I find smoked turkey or other lighter meat choices?

Yes. Smoked turkey and chicken are common lighter options. They’re a good pick if you want smoky flavor with lower fat compared to pork or brisket.

Is it customary to tip for carryout or counter service?

Tipping for counter service or carryout isn’t required but is appreciated. If staff handle large catering orders, special requests, or delivery, consider a standard 10–15% tip for excellent service.

Do these places sell by the slab, half, or by the pound?

Many shops offer flexible portions: individual sandwiches, plates, slabs of ribs, halves, and meat by the pound. Check each menu for exact portion sizes and combo options to match your appetite.

Are desserts or non-meat dishes like catfish available at these joints?

Some locations include regional sides and occasional non-meat entrees like catfish. Dessert offerings vary, so ask when you order or check the restaurant’s online menu for current options.