Best Barbeque Spots in Memphis
Central BBQ
📞 (901) 725-4238 (Midtown) 📞 (901) 672-7760 (Downtown) 📞 (901) 761-9988 (Poplar Ave) 📞 (901) 452-8200 (Summer Ave) 📍 Multiple locations: Midtown, Downtown, Summer Ave, Poplar Ave 🌐cbqmemphis.com
📝 Slow‑smoked pulled pork, ribs, chicken, turkey, sausage; also smoked portobello mushrooms. Frequently listed as the city’s favorite barbecue spot.
Corky's Ribs & BBQ
📞 (901) 685-9744
📍 5259 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119
🌐 corkysbbq.com
📝 Longtime East Memphis staple (since 1984) renowned for hickory-smoked ribs, pulled pork, catfish—and nostalgic ’50s ambiance.
Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous
📞 (901) 523-2746 📍 52 S 2nd St, Memphis, TN 38103
🌐 Search “Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous”
📝 Legendary since 1948 for coal-grilled dry-rub ribs with Greek‑Cajun blend—Memphis barbecue institution in a basement alley.
The Bar-B-Q Shop
📞 (901) 272‑1277
📍 1782 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
🌐 thebar-b-qshop.com
📝 Home of iconic barbecue spaghetti, half‑and‑half plates, top-rated ribs in America; “Dancing Pigs” sauce signature.
Interstate Barbecue
📞 (901) 775-2304
📍 2265 S. Third St, Memphis, TN 38109 (also at Memphis Intl Airport Gate C7)
🌐 interstatebarbecue.com
📝 Established 1979 by Jim Neely; hickory-smoked ribs and chopped pork sandwiches with famous barbecue spaghetti.
Cozy Corner BBQ
📞 (901) 527‑9158
📍 735 North Parkway, Memphis, TN 38105
🌐 Search “Cozy Corner BBQ Memphis”
📝 Family-run since 1977; famous for ribs and Cornish hens on sesame rolls, glowing national press, and Barbecue Hall of Fame founder.
Marlowe's Ribs and Restaurant
📞 (901) 332‑4159
📍 4381 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38116
🌐 Marlowe's Ribs And Restaurant In Memphis, TN | World Famous BBQ
📝 Since 1974, Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant has been serving up award‑winning Memphis barbecue just minutes from Graceland. Famous for its hickory‑smoked ribs, brisket, BBQ shrimp, and Italian‑style BBQ spaghetti, Marlowe’s blends Southern hospitality with Elvis‑themed flair. With a lively atmosphere, hearty portions, and a reputation as one of Memphis’ most iconic BBQ destinations, it’s a must‑visit for locals and travelers alike.
Elwood's Shack
📞 (901) 761‑9898
📍 523 Summer Ave, Memphis, TN 38122
📝 Elwood’s Shack is a beloved Memphis hidden gem serving up barbecue, sandwiches, tacos, and hearty breakfast plates in a laid‑back, no‑frills setting. Known for its brisket, smoked turkey, fish tacos, and creative quesadillas, this “hole‑in‑the‑wall” spot has earned a loyal following for its generous portions, bold flavors, and friendly service. Whether you’re craving ribs, a Reuben, or a classic Southern breakfast, Elwood’s Shack delivers authentic Memphis comfort food that keeps people coming back.
Payne’s Bar-B-Q
📞 (901) 272‑1523
📍 1762 Lamar Ave, Memphis, TN 38114
🌐https://www.restaurantji.com/tn/memphis/paynes-bar-b-que-/
📝 A humble cinderblock building with a big reputation, Payne’s is famous for its chopped pork sandwich topped with neon slaw. The ribs are tender, the sauce is tangy, and the vibe is pure Memphis. It’s a must-visit for BBQ purists and flavor seekers alike.
A&R Bar-B-Que
📞 (901) 774‑7444
📍 1802 Elvis Presley Blvd, Memphis, TN 38106
🌐https://aandrbbq.com
📝 A&R has been serving up smoky goodness since the early 1980s, with a reputation for tender ribs, juicy chopped pork sandwiches, and flavorful rib tips. The Elvis Presley Blvd location is a local favorite, offering generous portions, fast service, and a no-frills vibe. Their hot BBQ sauce packs a punch, and the bologna sandwich is a cult classic.
Leonard’s Pit Barbecue
📞 (901) 360‑1963
📍 5465 Fox Plaza Dr, Memphis, TN 38115
🌐https://www.leonardsbarbecue.com
📝 Open since 1922, Leonard’s is one of Memphis’s oldest BBQ joints. Known for its pit-smoked pork shoulder, classic ribs, and old-school buffet, it’s a nostalgic stop for traditional Southern fare. The retro dining room and vintage neon sign add charm, while the BBQ bologna sandwich is a local favorite.
Smackers BBQ
📞 (901) 207‑6206
📍 1680 E Holmes Rd, Memphis, TN 38116
🌐https://www.smackersbbq.com
📝 A rising star in South Memphis, Smackers BBQ is known for its smoked wings, rib tips, and loaded BBQ fries. The food truck-turned-restaurant offers generous portions, bold seasoning, and a loyal following. It’s a great pick for casual eats with serious flavor.