Eating Your Way Through Memphis BBQ and All

01 Memphis-Style BBQ: The Low and Slow Legend

When it comes to barbecue, Memphis does things a little differently. Pork takes center stage here—especially ribs and pulled pork. What makes Memphis BBQ so unforgettable? It’s all about the dry rub: a bold blend of spices like paprika, garlic, brown sugar, and cayenne layered on before the meat hits the smoker. Rather than drowning the meat in sauce, Memphis BBQ lets the pork’s smoky flavor shine, with a tangy, tomato-based sauce served on the side for an optional extra kick.

The cooking process is a slow, smoky ritual, with pitmasters carefully watching over hickory wood smokers to turn out meat that’s tender, juicy, and just the right amount of smoky. The thinner, vinegary Memphis sauce complements the pork, giving each bite that perfect balance without overpowering it. This isn’t just barbecue; it’s an art form—each bite a smoky masterpiece that brings people back, time and again.

02 Why Memphis Holds the BBQ Crown

Memphis BBQ is more than just food—it’s a cultural institution. This city’s BBQ roots stretch back to the 1920s, with African American families bringing rich cooking traditions that fused with local flavors to create what we now know as Memphis-style BBQ. Today, BBQ isn’t just a meal here; it’s a way of life.

The ultimate celebration of Memphis barbecue takes place each May at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, dubbed the “Super Bowl of Swine.” This four-day meat extravaganza draws more than 250 teams from across the globe. Competitors go head-to-head in categories like ribs, whole hog, and shoulder, showcasing techniques and recipes passed down through generations. Over 75,000 people gather to taste, cheer, and savor every smoky bite—a festival that celebrates the art and soul of Memphis BBQ and cements the city’s status as the BBQ Capital.

03 Where to Find the Best BBQ in Memphis

With barbecue joints around every corner, finding the best of the best can be a delicious challenge. Here are three standout spots that capture the magic of Memphis BBQ:

• Central BBQ: Known for ribs so tender they practically melt off the bone, Central BBQ serves both dry and wet ribs alongside a variety of house-made sauces. It’s a local legend that’s earned national fame.
• Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous: A beloved Memphis classic, famous for its dry-rub ribs served in a no-frills, basement setting. The flavors here are bold, smoky, and unapologetically Memphis.
• Payne’s Bar-B-Que: A family-run gem, Payne’s is famous for its chopped pork sandwich, piled high with tangy mustard slaw on a soft bun. It’s messy, flavorful, and downright unforgettable.

To beat the crowds, try hitting these spots during off-peak hours. And if you’re looking for hidden gems, just ask a local—Memphians are fiercely proud of their BBQ, and they’ll gladly point you to their go-to spots.

04 More Than Barbecue: Exploring Memphis’ Flavors

Yes, Memphis BBQ is iconic, but there’s much more on the menu here. Southern soul food is another cornerstone of the city’s food scene, with dishes like fried catfish, collard greens, and golden cornbread served in welcoming spots like The Four Way and Alcenia’s. These places aren’t just restaurants; they’re institutions of Southern hospitality, serving food that’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting.

And in the past few years, Memphis has crowned itself the “Wing Capital,” thanks to its signature honey gold wings. This sweet and spicy style is a Memphis must-try, with spots like Ching’s Hot Wings and All Star Hot Wings serving up crispy, juicy wings drenched in golden goodness.

Breakfast here also comes with a big dose of flavor. Start your day with fluffy biscuits and creamy gravy at Bryant’s Breakfast or channel Elvis with peanut butter and banana pancakes at The Arcade Restaurant. And if you’re craving a more upscale experience, Restaurant Iris and Andrew Michael Italian Kitchen blend Southern ingredients with global flavors to create dishes that are refined, surprising, and unforgettable.

05 Sipping Memphis: Craft Beer and Spirits

Beyond the plate, Memphis is making its mark with a craft beer and spirits scene that’s gaining national attention. The city’s water, sourced from the Memphis Sand Aquifer, is pure and mineral-rich, making it a prime ingredient for brewing. Wiseacre Brewing Company is a local favorite, known for its Tiny Bomb Pilsner, while Ghost River Brewing brings seasonal brews that capture the essence of the city’s landscape and climate.

And it’s not just beer—Memphis’ distilleries are equally impressive. Old Dominick Distillery has revived a family recipe for Tennessee whiskey, creating a spirit that’s smooth, flavorful, and steeped in local history. Meanwhile, Blue Note Bourbon infuses Memphis’ love of music into its brand, crafting a bourbon as bold and memorable as the city’s music scene. For a deeper dive, check out a tour with Memphis Brew Bus or Tastin’ ’Round Town, where you’ll get to sample local favorites and learn about the city’s brewing and distilling secrets.

06 Memphis After Dark: Bars and Nightlife

When the sun goes down, Memphis doesn’t slow down. This city’s nightlife is as vibrant as its food scene, with historic bars and trendy lounges offering a mix of character and charm. The Green Beetle, Memphis’ oldest tavern, has been serving locals since 1939. Then there’s Earnestine & Hazel’s, a former brothel turned dive bar that’s famous for its Soul Burger and jukebox tunes. If you’re in the mood for something different, try the Jameson Slushie at Slider Inn—a cool, whiskey-infused twist on a cocktail classic.

For a night out with a vibe, each Memphis district has its own feel. Beale Street is the epicenter, packed with neon lights, live blues, and the infectious energy of a street that never sleeps. But if you’re after something trendier, head to Overton Square or Cooper-Young for craft beer bars, cocktail lounges, and live music that spills into the streets. These neighborhoods capture the dynamic spirit of Memphis nightlife—a blend of history, soul, and fun.

07 Memphis Festivals: Foodie Heaven

Memphis doesn’t just love to eat; it loves to celebrate food. The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest is the big one, drawing BBQ teams from all over the world, but it’s not the only festival worth attending. The Memphis Chicken & Beer Festival and the Memphis Vegan Festival bring together different tastes and styles, proving there’s more to the city’s food scene than just meat and smoke.

And don’t miss the Memphis Food & Wine Festival, where you can sample gourmet dishes paired with fine wines for an upscale experience that shows off the city’s evolving palate. Memphis food festivals are packed with food trucks serving everything from international street food to inventive local creations. These festivals are as much about flavor as they are about community—an open invitation to taste, connect, and enjoy.

08 Savoring Memphis: Where Flavor and Soul Meet

Memphis is a city where every meal tells a story, a place where food and culture are deeply intertwined. Whether you’re here for the BBQ, the soul food, or something a little more adventurous, Memphis promises a culinary experience that’s as soulful as its music. So grab a fork, a drink, or maybe even a bib, and dive into the unforgettable flavors of this one-of-a-kind city. You’ll leave with a full belly, a few BBQ stains, and plenty of reasons to come back for more.