Nashville, Tn, is known for a lot of things: country music, the Grand Ole Opry, and some of the best BBQs in the country. If you're looking to entertain your taste buds for an authentic southern experience, you must check out some of these BBQ joints. From Carolina-style pulled pork to Memphis-style ribs, we've got you covered. So fire up your stomach and the grill and prepare for some serious eats!
Arnold's Country Kitchen
The first stop on our BBQ tour is Arnold's Country Kitchen. This no-frills spot has served up some of the best southern comfort food for over 40 years. The line out the door is a testament to their popularity, so be sure to get there early! The pork shoulder is slow-cooked and served with a vinegar-based sauce to its beef brisket- it's finger-lickin' good. Also, don't miss Arnold's traditional southern sides, including fried green tomatoes and cole slaw, since they are some of the best in town!
Peg Leg Porker
Our next stop is Peg Leg Porker. Located in The Gulch, this BBQ spot is known for its dry-rub ribs. Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, these ribs are smoked to perfection. When choosing your sides, try the baked beans - they're made with bacon and molasses and will have you coming back for more! Since opening in 2013, the owners of Peg Leg Porker have won several awards. They have even been asked to cook for some of the best chefs in the world, including the prestigious James Beard house.
Jack's BBQ
No BBQ guide would be complete without mentioning Jack's BBQ. Established in 1976, this joint now has three locations to choose from. Jack has served up some of the best BBQ in town for over 15 years. Jack's smoked meats are smoked with hickory wood, and the menu features all of your favorites, from pulled pork sandwiches to brisket. Six award-winning sauces represent all the well-known BBQ regions. Sides include green beans, apples, mac and cheese, fried corn, cole slaw, potato salad, baked beans, cucumber & tomato salad, Be sure to save room for dessert so you can try their famous banana pudding - it's the perfect way to end your meal!
Shotgun Willie's BBQ
If you're looking for a Texas-style BBQ spot to chow down, then check out Shotgun Willie's. This spot is located in East Nashville and is known for its pulled pork sandwiches. The pork is smoked all day long and served on a toasted bun with coleslaw and your choice of sauce. The plate's come with 1/2 lb of meat and includes two tasty sides, bread, dill pickles, and pickled red onions. It's the perfect meal to enjoy while sipping on a cold beer.
Edley's Barbecue
Edley's is a local favorite and has been serving up some of the best BBQ in Nashville since 2010. With locations in 12South, East Nashville, and Charlotte, there's sure to be an Edley's near you. The menu features all of your favorites like pulled pork, ribs, chicken, bbq nachos, and brisket. Be sure to try their hot chicken tacos or the Tucks Special. Tucks special features sliced brisket, over-easy egg, red & white sauce, pickles, and spicy pimento cheese. And don't forget your souther style side. You will want to order a side of their Southern Greens - they're slow-cooked with smoked turkey and come highly recommended.
Martin's BBQ Joint
Martin's BBQ Joint is known for its Memphis-style BBQ and has been featured on The Food Network, Travel Channel, and Bon Appetit. The ribs are smoked over hickory wood, and the pulled pork is served with a vinegar-based sauce. Be sure to try their famous Redneck Tacos. It's a cornbread pancake piled high with your choice of meat and topped with cole slaw. And don't forget to order a side of their signature cornbread - it's some of the best in town!
Jim 'N Nicks BBQ
Jim 'N Nicks BBQ is a chain restaurant that has locations all over the south and is known for its slow-cooked meats and homemade sides. The menu features all of your favorites like pulled pork, ribs, chicken, sausage, and Texas-style brisket. Be sure to try their famous mac and cheese - it's made with a secret blend of cheeses and topped with a crispy breadcrumb topping. And don't forget to save room for dessert! Their banana pudding is made from scratch and will definitely hit the spot.
Porter Road Butcher
If you want to smoke up your own great bbq creation, then Porter Road Butcher is a must! At Porter Road Butcher, you can count on quality meats for everyone, from the novice cook to the professional chef. Their meats are cut to order to ensure freshness every time. They also have a wide selection of house-made sausages and smoked meat like bacon and pork belly. And if you're looking for something a little bit different, they also offer venison, quail, and even rabbit! So whether you're in the mood for some ribs or an excellent cut of steak, Porter Road Butcher is sure to have what you're looking for.
The Gambling Stick
Last but not least, no trip to Nashville would be completewithout a stop at The Gambling Stick. At the Gambling Stick, they pride themselves on using all local, seasonal ingredients, including pasture-raised meat from Porter Road Butcher, to make their Appalachian heritage-inspired barbecue. This food truck menu features all your favorites like pulled pork, ribs, chicken, sausage, and brisket. Try their famous Gambling Stick Fries - they're loaded with cheese, bacon, and jalapenos.
So there you have it, a guide to some of the best BBQ in Nashville. Be sure to check out one (or all!) of these great spots the next time you're in town. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not try your hand at smoking your own meats at Porter Road Butcher? Whatever you do, just make sure you come hungry!