50 Best Barbeque Restaurants in Memphis

“Teaveling through and stopped by for some BBQ. Food was awesome and the service was very good. Our server Jalyn was very professional and very helpful. I recommend giving it a try for that famous Memphis BBQ. Got the ribs, Pulled pork, catfish and brisket.“

“Service was excellent, and the staff was very patient with my tired and hungry 7 YO. The music was excellent and well worth the cover charge. The ribs were the best we had in Memphis, especially compared to other highly recommended restaurants. The ribs were tender and well seasoned. The sides were also excellent as well as the bread pudding dessert. We will be back.“

“This place is a must when visiting Memphis! SO GOOD!!!“

“Awesome food! Friendly, helpful staff!! 10/10 will definitely be back!“

“We did a small day trip into Memphis from Little Rock and were looking for a spot for lunch and decided to try this place. We walked in and talked to the people behind the counter and basically said “what should we eat?” They recommended a few options and we went with the sausage, chopped beef, ribs (of course) and smoked turkey and mannnnn, I cannot get over how delicious everything was. And the atmosphere was so nice and the staff were great! I will definitely recommend this place and come back anytime I’m in town!“

“This is the go to place in Memphis. When we visit Graceland, this is a must. I love the bbq spaghetti. We have the pink caddy pick us up at the Guesthouse. We always end up buying souvenirs from the gift shop as well. We just love Marlowes!“

“I ate just about the best BBQ I’ve ever had here!!! The food was out of this world and our server Sharon was the kindest lady! I travel between PA and AR several times a year and I’m dubbing this my ‘must stop for lunch’ spot from now on!!! It’s a little hole in the wall and easy to miss if you’re not looking, but I recommend you look because you won’t be disappointed!!!“

“Hands down best BBQ in Town service was super fast loved the environment.“

“Flavor and tenderness. Everytime.“

“best bbq ribs iv ever eaten. They were so good that the next morning I woke up at soon as they opened and got more. highly recommend this place fast friendly service and they do not short you. you get more than your money's worth! I will be back everytime I come to Memphis“

“I just love the atmosphere and the fact that it is so family orient. Shout out to Mrs. Payne and her lovely staff and family !“

“Central BBQ is a busy, buzzing spot — thanks in part to its prime location near the Civil Rights Museum. Expect a bit of a wait to order in, but honestly, you’ll need that time to scout out a table, grab a drink, and settle in.

I went with the starter sampler and wow — this tray was loaded. If I had to rank the hits:
1. Pulled pork sandwich
2. BBQ Nachos
3. Smoked wings
4. Sausage
Massive portions across the board, and the sandwich sizes looked just right for most appetites.

The venue itself is big — lots of space and seating — and the vibe feels more like a Texas BBQ joint than some of the other Memphis spots I’ve visited, which gives it a broad, approachable feel.

Delicious food, unbeatable location, great service, and fair prices. Definitely worth the stop — especially if you’re coming from or heading to the museum next door.“

“Some of the best BBQ in Memphis. Really can taste the Smokey flavor.“

“Absolutely best time ever! Harper was absolutely awesome!“

“Totally awesome BBQ, fast friendly, clean! A MUST STOP!! 🙌🏻❤️😁“

“It is a great place eat , Quality service“

“Last night as always, the service was incredible. The food was divine. Thank you for always treating me and my gal like family. We love yall. Gave Carl a big hug. As I told him, everytime we come in, I just want to give you all hugs. You guys do magnificent work in service and cuisine. Much love to yall and your families“

“Visiting Memphis from Denver. Was recommended to come to Ballhoggerz for some great bbq. They didn’t disappoint The ribs tips were fantastic. The smoked turkey leg was so good. They are doing their thing there. My cousin who lives here, plans to come back for more.“

“Finally checked it out today after work! While I will always miss the beloved Tycoon restaurant and the Hwang family who ran the place, I am very happy with Mama's Kitchen. The hard working Mr. Jacob is a very kind man and an excellent cook!

I can't wait to come back and try the catfish since the young man I walked past when I left was so excited about it. He described the catfish as "bussin!" and after everything I just ate, I am inclined to fully believe him.

I got a bunch of different things for my family today to try out Mama's Kitchen. Here's our honest review:
Buffalo wings 8.5/10
Honey gold wings 8.5/10
Seasoned fries 9/10
Beef samoskas 9.5/10
Shawarma chicken combo 10/10
Service 11/10

Great place. Great people. Great food. We will be back for sure.

Try the shawarma chicken combo!“

“Go there often and had the best bbq beef ribs. They were large and very meaty and were better than ever!! I also had the bbq wings and they were delicious. Staff very friendly also.“

“Whenever I visit home, The Grille is always my first stop! There are just somethings that you can never get anywhere else, besides home! The southern hospitality, and the warmth and kindness that the staff show is always valued. Plus, the food is always consistently good. ?“

“I have been craving your sauce for months. My husband and I separated last week and I have been struggling to eat. I hopped in the car with a girlfriend and drove from WI. I just ate my biggest meal in 11 days. Thanks!“

“great food and service! Looking forward to the live comedy show May 27th“

“It’s was great! Good service and food!“

“The rib tips were amazing! Service was great! And Adam was the nicest!“

“My family and I decided to try this place on August 24, 2024. Luckily for me there wasn't a lot of people inside the building, so it was easy to ordered our foods. When we sat down in our seats I looked around the restaurant. The first thing I thought about was the seats we was sitting in. They looked a little outdated and probably need to be replaced. The table we have was a little wobbly and next to me was a sticking pad which had a lot of flies in them. When the food came out and when I started eating I forgot all about the issues with the seats and table. I decided to get the Loaded Philly Steak Potato and baked beans. The baked beans was pretty good probably needed something extra to make it outstanding. The Philly Steak Potato were just delicious. It simply steaks, peppers, and cheese but everything blended together well with the potato. I also have some of my grandparents fries and they were hot and delicious. When you get over how the restaurant looks inside and try the food you won't regret it.“

“I ordered the Catfish plate very delicious and the customer service was great!! Check them out“

“I had a Brisket BBQ sandwich and these guys knocked it out of park. Initially I thought man these guys are expensive but, sandwich was amazing, the meat was piled on and delicious. The two sides were very generous. I had the potato salad and baked beans. The service was excellent and the folks were polite and friendly. I’ll definitely be back for more.“

“man, this food is so good. I ordered the Alfredo Stuffed Turkey Leg 🍗 🦵 after taking the first bite, I wanted to go back to the food truck and buy another!!! I definitely recommend Barbeque Off Da Chainz“

“Very good food! I ordered their 10 pc hot wings & it wasn’t toooo spicy. Also, it was fresh and the fries were bomb.“

“Big Myrts Wings & Things offer delicious meals while providing superb service.“

“I contacted King of Kings BBQ to place a catering order. Both he and his wife personally delivered the food. Mr. James, after tasting the ribs that he had previously cooked and realizing they weren't up to standard, drove 1.5 hours to Oxford, MS, to bring me a whole new pan of ribs for my special occasion.“

“Amazing! Just passing through from Dallas to Ohio and had to stop by! First time and it was so good!“

“The Lunch Special has changed to the Rayford's Special. The price of the Special has increased and it does not come with dressing. If you would like ranch or blue cheese with your wings expect to pay extra. However, the chicken is still good. The service is mediocre. The fish is good. Be prepared to have your own hotsauce. They didn't have hotsauce packets for the fish. The cashier let me know I would have to pay extra if I wanted hotsauce in a cup even though they didn't have any. I paid extra because --how can you eat fish without hotsauce?“

“(Real Costumer Review)Bossman & BossLady are so nice they are kind genuine people and they work as an team. and the food is greattttttttttt... I've been going to Boss man pit stop since Getwell rd! Thinking about ordering today the food is so delicious please give them a try you want be sorry.“

“My husband and I just left Big Bills BBQ. The food was amazing. Had ribs, beef nachos, brisket plate with potato salad and baked beans. When I tell you the food is finger licking good, ITS FINGER LICKING GOOD. You have to roll us out of here. The service was amazing as well. Must come and get your grub on.“

“We love The Pig on Beale and eat there every time we're in Memphis. It never disappoints.“

“I left for Alaska in 2017 to retire my last stop was Tops BQ on Summer across from Krogers to get BQ Sandwiches . And say bye to the crew that had made my lunches and ect . for 20 years + I miss it from Willow Alaska you guys Rock“

“TLDR: Cozy, country-style spot with friendly service and traditional food. The automatic 20% tip might be a dealbreaker for some.

Review for Old Whitten Tavern

Food: The menu sticks to traditional country flavors. The hashbrowns were good, though I prefer a layer of crunch, and these were soft throughout. The eggs were cooked perfectly and came with cheese as I ordered. The biscuits were thin, flat, and basic in flavor, but the country gravy had a good texture with a simple, satisfying taste. The pancake was generously sized (about 10 inches across and 1/2 inch thick) with a soft and chewy texture, though it lacked much flavor on its own. Thankfully, the syrup complemented it well. Overall, the food gives off a "like grandma used to make" vibe, focusing on simplicity over bold flavors.

Service: The service was excellent. All the staff pitched in to check on me, ensuring I was taken care of. The friendliness added to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. However, the establishment automatically adds a 20% tip to each dine-in order, regardless of the service quality. While you can add more, it feels a bit rigid—good service should earn a good tip, not have it guaranteed.

Atmosphere: The country vibe is undeniable. The interior features dark ceilings, tables, and floors, with moderate lighting during the day that feels slightly dim but cozy. With one booth and about 17 tables inside, the spacing is comfortable without feeling crowded. The outside seating allows dogs, making it a good option for pet owners. The full bar and all-day breakfast menu add to its versatility, whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, with only one private bathroom per gender, the morning coffee rush could be challenging.

Summary: Old Whitten Tavern offers a solid country breakfast experience with traditional flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. While the food and service were good, the automatic 20% tip policy might not sit well with those who feel tipping should reflect service quality. Still, it’s a cozy spot worth visiting, especially if you’re seeking classic, no-frills breakfast options.

Parking: The parking lot is shared with multiple other businesses, so during heavy traffic times it could be tough to find a spot near the restaurant.

Kid-friendliness: Though it has a full bar, it is very kid friendly. The bar area is smaller, opening up more to the dine in experience.“

“Delicious Down Home Cooking the way Grandma used to do back in the day“

“My husband and I went to the one in Corinth! Everything was Excellent! Huge variety!“

“Friendly staff. Delicious food. Both vegan and non-vegan.“

“Excellent environment — great customer service, friendliness, delicious food and extremely clean restaurant and market. Highly recommend for all and will definitely be back.“

“My absolute favorite Mexican restaurant!“

“What great food you all have with great Customer Service every time I come to get food for the job! We appreciate you and special thanks to Leann and Jonathan!!!! My Turkey burger with extra cheese was the bomb!! Kudos!!??????“

“My husband and I went to the one in Corinth! Everything was Excellent! Huge variety!“

“Nobody told me they have a brunch here on Sundays. It wasn't what I wanted, but it was a pleasant surprise. The service was good, the food was good, the drinks were good, the place was clean and it was a nice environment. I'll definitely go back.“

“My husband and I went to the one in Corinth! Everything was Excellent! Huge variety!“

“Excellent food! excellent service!!
Only Problem is bathroom needed to be cleaned, painted, and the floor repaired!

Parking: Plenty of parking in lot across drive!
Ďont park at Cleaners next door!!

Wheelchair accessibility: Easy access for Handicaped and wheelcgair“