Introduction
Nashville is renowned globally for its music scene, the beating heart of country music that resonates throughout its honky-tonks and grand concert halls. However, beyond the captivating melodies and soulful lyrics, lies another burgeoning scene, equally as captivating and flavorful: its BBQ. Nashville’s BBQ scene is a symphony of smoky aromas, tender meats, and tangy sauces, transforming this city into a true BBQ destination for foodies from around the world.
Gone are the days when BBQ was just a summertime cookout staple; Nashville’s BBQ joints are now crafting culinary masterpieces, blending tradition with innovation to create a truly unique experience. From dry-rub ribs that tantalize your taste buds to succulent pulled pork that melts in your mouth, Nashville offers a BBQ adventure to satisfy every craving. If you’re seeking the quintessential taste of Nashville, forget about hot chicken for a moment and immerse yourself in the world of smoked meats. We’ve curated a list of some of the best places to get your BBQ fix, considering the quality of the meat, the boldness of the sauces, the creativity of the sides, the overall atmosphere, and the value for your money. So, prepare yourself for a journey through Nashville’s smoky heart, where the aroma of hickory and oak fills the air, and the taste of perfectly cooked BBQ lingers long after you’ve finished your plate.
Peg Leg Porker: A Nashville BBQ Institution
No discussion of the best BBQ food in Nashville would be complete without mentioning Peg Leg Porker. Named for pitmaster Carey Bringle, who lost a leg to cancer, Peg Leg Porker has become a beloved institution in the Nashville BBQ scene. Located in the vibrant Gulch neighborhood, this bustling eatery draws crowds eager to savor their award-winning Memphis-style BBQ.
What sets Peg Leg Porker apart is their dedication to quality and tradition. They use locally sourced hickory wood to slow-smoke their meats, imparting a distinct smoky flavor that permeates every bite. Their ribs are arguably their most famous offering, expertly seasoned with a dry rub and cooked to perfection, resulting in a tender, juicy, and flavorful experience. The bark, that coveted layer of caramelized spices, is simply divine. Their pulled pork, another crowd favorite, is equally impressive, boasting a rich, smoky flavor and a delicate tenderness.
Beyond the ribs and pulled pork, Peg Leg Porker offers a tantalizing array of sides that perfectly complement their smoked meats. Their mac and cheese, creamy and decadent, is a must-try. The coleslaw, tangy and refreshing, provides a welcome contrast to the richness of the BBQ. And the baked beans, cooked low and slow with a hint of sweetness, are the perfect accompaniment to any BBQ feast.
The atmosphere at Peg Leg Porker is casual and lively, reflecting the spirit of Nashville. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, with a spacious patio that’s perfect for enjoying a cold beer and some delicious BBQ on a warm day. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations and share their passion for BBQ. Peg Leg Porker is located at 903 Gleaves Street, Nashville, and its consistent quality and commitment to tradition has cemented its place as one of the best places to experience the ultimate Nashville BBQ experience.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint: Whole Hog Heaven
For a taste of authentic West Tennessee BBQ, head to Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. With multiple locations throughout Nashville, Martin’s is known for its commitment to whole hog BBQ, a traditional cooking method that involves smoking an entire pig over hardwood coals for extended periods. This technique results in incredibly tender, smoky, and flavorful meat that’s simply irresistible.
The star of the show at Martin’s is undoubtedly their whole hog BBQ. Pitmaster Pat Martin is a true master of his craft, skillfully managing the fire and monitoring the meat to ensure it’s cooked to perfection. The result is a symphony of flavors and textures, with crispy skin, tender meat, and a smoky aroma that will transport you to BBQ heaven. Their pulled pork is legendary, pulled fresh from the whole hog and served with a variety of sauces to suit every taste. From the classic West Tennessee red sauce to the tangy vinegar-based sauce, there’s a flavor for everyone.
While the whole hog BBQ is the main attraction, Martin’s also offers a variety of other smoked meats, including ribs, brisket, and turkey. Their ribs are meaty and flavorful, with a perfect balance of smoke and spice. The brisket, slow-smoked for hours, is tender, juicy, and melts in your mouth. And the turkey, often overlooked at BBQ joints, is surprisingly delicious, boasting a smoky flavor and a moist, tender texture.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint has various locations, but the South 1st Street location provides a vibrant and authentic atmosphere. Many locations provide a comfortable and family-friendly setting. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a celebratory dinner, Martin’s is the perfect place to indulge in some of the best BBQ in Nashville. Their dedication to whole hog BBQ and commitment to quality ingredients make them a standout in the Nashville BBQ scene.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken (Yes, Really!): A BBQ Twist
While primarily known for their fiery hot chicken, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken also offers a surprisingly delicious BBQ option: smoked turkey. Yes, you read that right! Tucked away on their menu amidst the various levels of hot chicken, Hattie B’s smoked turkey is a hidden gem that deserves recognition.
Hattie B’s commitment to quality and flavor extends beyond their hot chicken to their smoked turkey. They use high-quality turkey breasts, seasoned with a blend of spices and slow-smoked to perfection. The result is a tender, juicy, and smoky turkey that’s surprisingly addictive. It’s served sliced and piled high on a bun, topped with your choice of slaw and sauce.
The beauty of Hattie B’s smoked turkey is that it offers a delicious alternative for those who aren’t quite ready to brave the heat of their hot chicken. It’s also a great option for BBQ purists who appreciate the simplicity of perfectly smoked meat. And, of course, you can always add a side of their mac and cheese or pimento mac and cheese for the perfect combination.
With multiple locations throughout Nashville, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken is easily accessible and always bustling with energy. While the lines can be long, the food is well worth the wait. Don’t overlook the smoked turkey on your next visit. It might just surprise you and become your new favorite dish. While perhaps not the first place that comes to mind when you think best BBQ food in Nashville, Hattie B’s has carved out a space for itself.
Jack’s Bar-B-Que: A Downtown Staple
Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Jack’s Bar-B-Que is a long-standing staple of the city’s BBQ scene. Since opening its doors, Jack’s has been serving up delicious smoked meats to locals and tourists alike. With its convenient location and consistent quality, Jack’s is a reliable choice for a BBQ fix in the midst of the downtown hustle.
Jack’s Bar-B-Que offers a variety of smoked meats, including ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken. Their ribs are particularly popular, known for their tenderness and smoky flavor. They offer both dry-rub and wet-rub ribs, so you can choose your preferred style. Their pulled pork is also a crowd-pleaser, boasting a rich, smoky flavor and a delicate tenderness.
The sides at Jack’s Bar-B-Que are classic BBQ fare, including coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad. While they may not be the most innovative sides, they are consistently well-prepared and perfectly complement the smoked meats. The atmosphere at Jack’s is casual and laid-back, with a no-frills approach that focuses on the food. The downtown location is at 416 Broadway, Nashville, making it a convenient spot for grabbing lunch or dinner while exploring the city. Jack’s Bar-B-Que may not be the fanciest BBQ joint in Nashville, but its consistent quality and convenient location make it a reliable and enjoyable option for a taste of classic BBQ.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que: East Nashville’s Smoked Treasure
Venture east, and you’ll find Edley’s Bar-B-Que, a beloved spot in East Nashville. The focus here is on classic BBQ with a Southern twist, served up in a laid-back, community-focused setting. Edley’s has cultivated a loyal following thanks to their commitment to quality ingredients and flavorful, slow-smoked meats.
Edley’s stands out for its delicious brisket, a melt-in-your-mouth experience. They use a simple rub that lets the rich beef flavor shine through, and it’s smoked for hours until incredibly tender. If you’re a fan of moist and flavorful brisket, Edley’s is a must-try. Beyond brisket, their pulled pork is another excellent choice, with a smoky flavor and just the right amount of tang. The ribs are a fan-favorite as well.
Don’t miss out on their unique sides, too. The “tater tot casserole” brings a nostalgic feel, while the creamy mac and cheese offers classic comfort. Edley’s also has a great selection of local beers, making it a popular spot to unwind after a day of exploring Nashville. Find them at 2706 12th Avenue South, Nashville. The friendly atmosphere and the delicious food make Edley’s a favorite among East Nashville locals and visitors alike.
Beyond the Meat: Spotlight on Nashville BBQ Sides
Nashville’s BBQ excellence isn’t limited to just the meat; the sides are an equally vital component of the experience. It’s the sides that complete the meal, adding contrasting flavors and textures that elevate the entire BBQ experience. While each restaurant listed above has its own specialties, some general sides in Nashville stand out. Creamy coleslaw is a constant classic in Nashville BBQ joints, often a refreshing counterpoint to the rich smoked meats. Smoky baked beans, cooked low and slow with molasses and bacon, are another staple that never disappoints. Cheesy grits, a Southern comfort food classic, provide a creamy and savory addition to any BBQ plate. Many restaurants also offer unique and innovative sides, such as mac and cheese variations, collard greens, and potato salad.
Conclusion
Nashville’s BBQ scene is more than just a collection of restaurants; it’s a cultural experience. It’s a celebration of tradition, a testament to innovation, and a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage. The smoky aromas, the tender meats, and the tangy sauces create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Nashville’s BBQ scene has something to offer everyone. So, pack your appetite, grab your napkins, and get ready to experience the best BBQ food in Nashville. What’s your favorite BBQ spot in Nashville? Share your recommendations in the comments below! We’re always looking for new BBQ experiences to explore.
