Introduction
Nashville isn’t just about boot-stomping country music and neon-lit honky-tonks; it’s a barbecue paradise, a smoky haven where pitmasters are revered and the scent of hickory smoke hangs heavy in the air. Forget everything you think you know about Southern cuisine because Nashville’s barbecue scene is ready to redefine your definition of the perfect smoked feast. Ready to trade those cowboy boots for BBQ-stained fingers? Nashville’s smoked meat scene is, quite frankly, smokin’ hot!
Barbecue is a broad term, encompassing regional styles as diverse as the landscapes they originate from. You have the vinegar-based tang of Eastern North Carolina, the dry-rubbed magic of Memphis, the rich, peppery bark of Texas brisket, and the mustard-tinged zest of South Carolina barbecue. Nashville, while borrowing inspiration from across the South, has cultivated a unique barbecue identity that emphasizes quality ingredients, innovative techniques, and a whole lot of passion. The competition is fierce, the stakes are high, and the results are absolutely delicious.
Whether you are a seasoned barbecue aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the world of smoked meats, this guide will unveil the best BBQ joints in Nashville, showcasing exceptional meats, mouthwatering sides, and the unique experiences that make them stand out from the crowd.
Pulled Pork Perfection: Where to Find the Best in Nashville
Pulled pork, the smoky, shredded embodiment of Southern comfort, is a staple of any serious barbecue establishment. Achieving pulled pork perfection requires a delicate balance of smoke, time, and temperature. Look for a prominent smoke ring, a deep, mahogany bark, and meat that practically falls apart with a gentle tug. The sauce, whether vinegar-based, tomato-based, or something entirely unique, should complement the pork’s natural flavors without overpowering them.
Peg Leg Porker
For a masterclass in pulled pork, head to Peg Leg Porker in the Gulch. Their Memphis-style dry rub, combined with hours of slow smoking over hickory wood, creates a pulled pork that is both intensely flavorful and incredibly tender. The accompanying white sauce, a creamy, peppery concoction, adds a delightful tang that elevates the entire experience. Don’t forget to pair it with their mac and cheese for the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint
Another top contender in the pulled pork arena is Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. Their whole hog barbecue, a traditional method rarely seen outside of the Carolinas, results in pulled pork that is incredibly moist and flavorful. The variety of sauces, ranging from sweet to spicy, allows you to customize your experience to your exact preferences. Try the Alabama white sauce for a unique and surprisingly delicious twist.
Ribs to Remember: A Journey Through Nashville’s Best Racks
Ribs, whether dry-rubbed or slathered in sauce, are a true test of a pitmaster’s skill. Tender, juicy meat that pulls cleanly from the bone, a smoky flavor that permeates every bite, and a balance of savory and sweet – these are the hallmarks of truly great ribs. Nashville boasts a diverse array of rib styles, from St. Louis-style spares to baby backs, each with its own unique character.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
For a taste of barbecue royalty, look no further than Edley’s Bar-B-Que. Their dry-rubbed ribs are legendary, seasoned with a blend of spices that create a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. The ribs are cooked low and slow, allowing the smoke to penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful masterpiece.
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken & Bar-B-Que
Next, swing by Hattie B’s Hot Chicken & Bar-B-Que. Yes, they are known for Hot Chicken but you will be surprised how good their ribs are. They are perfectly smoked and the ribs are some of the most requested in Nashville.
Brisket Bliss: Chasing the Holy Grail of Smoked Beef
Brisket, the king of Texas barbecue, is a cut of beef that demands respect. Achieving brisket perfection requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the meat. A good brisket will have a rich, smoky flavor, a beautiful mahogany bark, and a perfect balance of tender meat and rendered fat. The “point,” the fattier portion of the brisket, is often considered the most prized piece, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is truly unforgettable.
Nashville’s brisket scene is rapidly evolving, with several pitmasters pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Bringle’s Smoking Oasis
Bringle’s Smoking Oasis is a standout, offering brisket that rivals some of the best in Texas. Their brisket is smoked for hours over oak wood, resulting in a deeply smoky flavor and a tender, juicy texture.
Jack’s Bar-B-Que
Next is Jack’s Bar-B-Que. Although Jack’s is very well known it is still worth the stop to try their incredible brisket and their other mouthwatering options.
Chicken and Turkey: The Underappreciated Stars of the BBQ World
While pork and beef often steal the spotlight, smoked chicken and turkey are often overlooked gems. When done right, smoked poultry can be incredibly flavorful and satisfying, offering a lighter alternative to the heavier meats. The key is to keep the meat moist and juicy while imparting a smoky flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the chicken or turkey.
Butts and Company
Butts and Company excels at smoked chicken, using a blend of hickory and fruit woods to create a delicate and flavorful smoke. The chicken is cooked whole, resulting in incredibly moist and tender meat. Their smoked turkey breast is also a standout, perfect for sandwiches or salads.
Shotgun Willie’s BBQ
Then, take a trip to Shotgun Willie’s BBQ and ask for a plate of their hickory smoked chicken. It is one of the best items on their expansive menu and will keep you wanting more.
Sausage Sensations: A Culinary Journey Through Nashville’s Best Links
Barbecue sausage, often made in-house with unique blends of spices and meats, is a testament to a pitmaster’s creativity. A good barbecue sausage should have a snappy casing, a juicy interior, and a complex flavor profile that balances savory, spicy, and smoky notes. Nashville’s sausage scene is surprisingly diverse, with options ranging from traditional German-style brats to spicy Andouille sausages.
The Ridge
The Ridge offers a range of delicious, smoked sausages that pair perfectly with their other barbecue offerings. Don’t forget to try their delicious spicy coleslaw on the side.
Tennessee Brew Works
Tennessee Brew Works provides a wide range of different in-house sausage options that complement their delicious beer selection.
Beyond the Meat: Nashville’s Best BBQ Sides
No barbecue feast is complete without a selection of mouthwatering sides. The best BBQ sides complement the smoky flavors of the meats, offering a balance of textures and tastes that elevate the entire meal. From creamy mac and cheese to tangy coleslaw, these sides are essential to the Nashville barbecue experience.
Mac and Cheese
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken & Bar-B-Que offers a rich and decadent mac and cheese that is the perfect comfort food companion to their spicy chicken and smoky barbecue.
Coleslaw
Edley’s Bar-B-Que serves up a tangy and refreshing coleslaw that cuts through the richness of the smoked meats.
Baked Beans
Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint offers smoky, sweet, and savory baked beans that are a must-try.
Potato Salad
Peg Leg Porker‘s potato salad is a creamy and flavorful classic.
Greens
Bringle’s Smoking Oasis offers collard greens cooked low and slow with smoked ham hocks, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and flavorful.
Hidden Gems and Up-and-Coming BBQ Spots
Beyond the established names, Nashville’s BBQ scene is teeming with smaller, lesser-known establishments that deserve your attention. These hidden gems often offer unique and innovative takes on traditional barbecue, showcasing the passion and creativity of the city’s burgeoning pitmaster community.
Judge Bean’s BBQ
Judge Bean’s BBQ located in Pegram, TN is a restaurant with only outdoor seating that offers a beautiful BBQ experience and great food.
Tips for the Ultimate Nashville BBQ Experience
To make the most of your Nashville BBQ adventure, keep these tips in mind:
- Best Time to Go: Weekday lunch hours are typically less crowded than weekend evenings.
- How to Order: Ordering a “meat and three” (a selection of meat and three sides) is a great way to sample a variety of dishes.
- Sauce Preferences: Ask about the different sauces available and don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Bring Cash: Some smaller establishments may be cash-only.
- Be Prepared for a Wait: Popular places can have long lines, especially during peak hours.
Conclusion: Embrace the Nashville BBQ Scene
Nashville’s barbecue scene is a vibrant and ever-evolving culinary landscape, offering a diverse range of flavors and experiences to satisfy every palate. From the iconic pulled pork of Peg Leg Porker to the award-winning brisket of Bringle’s Smoking Oasis, the city is brimming with exceptional barbecue establishments that are pushing the boundaries of smoked meat perfection.
So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a smoky adventure through Nashville’s BBQ landscape. You won’t be disappointed! Come explore the best BBQ food in Nashville.
