Here are the best BBQ spots in Memphis!

Memphis is well known for barbecue that literally melts in your mouth. The city is home to more than a few barbecue eateries, all of which are competing for the title of best BBQ spot in Memphis. Visit them yourself and let your taste buds be the judge.

Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant

This is the place to come if you want to chow down on barbecue ribs while watching your favorite sport. One of the restaurant’s most popular meals is the half rack of ribs with apple pie and ice cream, although the eatery also has a pork shoulder that’s out of this world as well as a barbecue pasta dish that will hit the spot for fans of Italian food. And to top it off, Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant will even deliver.

Tom’s Barbecue

Whether you’re looking for something light or extremely fulfilling, Tom’s Barbecue is the place to go. The beef and pork sit in a mouthwatering spice rub for a whole day before they’re served, so it’s hardly surprising that the eatery’s three most popular dishes are the pulled pork sandwich, the beef brisket and baby back ribs. The restaurant’s rib tips are smoked over hickory wood and charcoal and then smothered in Tom’s signature sauce, which gives them a unique taste you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous

A classic family establishment with a rich history, Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous is where thousands of people gather on an average Saturday night for racks of smoked ribs and sausages with delicious dry-rub spices. For 70 years the Vergos family has been serving their signature dishes in a basement through a downtown alley across from the Peabody Hotel. And while the world outside has changed considerably, very little has changed in that magical basement.

Photo Credit: Charlie Vergos Rendezvous’ Facebook Page

One & Only BBQ

You’ll enjoy authentic barbecue sandwiches served on fresh buns and smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce at the One & Only BBQ. Pick from a large selection of side options, including green beans, baked beans and sweet potatoes.

A&R Bar-B-Q

A&R Bar-B-Q smokes its meat in pits located on the property, producing pork ribs that literally fall off the bone and can be served smothered in sauce or dry. The chopped pork sandwich and a delicious half-slab of pork ribs are both customer favorites.

Payne’s Bar-B-Que

Dressing up for a fancy dinner can be fun, but sometimes nothing can beat an inexpensive, homey meal. Payne’s Bar-B-Que is the go-to for folks looking for a casual barbecue joint consisting of great food and even better prices. Check out the acclaimed chopped and pulled pork sandwiches as well as the smoked sausage for some house classics at this beloved establishment.

Central BBQ

Central BBQ is known for three things: fall-off-the-bone meat, southern hospitality and good times. Since opening their doors in 2002, Central BBQ has experienced quick growth, expanding to four locations and appearing in several national TV shows and publications including Pitmasters, BBQ with Bobby Flay, USA Today, Southern Living and Men’s Health.

Photo Credit: Central BBQ’ Facebook Page

Cozy Corner

Don’t come to Cozy Corner if you’re looking for something quick. Because this BBQ joint is located right in the heart of Memphis, you’re likely to find a line outside the door. But don’t despair—you’ll need that time to peruse the menu, which includes everything from smoked sausage to classic barbecue ribs. We recommend the smoked Cornish hen, which just so happens to be one of the restaurant’s most popular items. The meat is succulent and the entire bird is smothered in a tangy sauce.

Memphis has so much to offer—great restaurants, exciting concert venues, popular museums and more. Come and enjoy all that the city has to offer, and make sure to delight your taste buds with a delicious barbeque dish while you’re in these parts.