When you choose an Unwind luxury property in bustling Nashville, TN, you’ll absolutely have to check out the sights, sounds, and especially tastes of Tennessee’s largest city.
Affectionately known as “Music City,” Nashville is not only celebrated for its rich musical heritage but also for its vibrant culinary scene, particularly its barbecue offerings. The city’s barbecue landscape is a rich blend of traditional Southern flavors and innovative techniques, resulting in a mouth-watering blend of tastes that cater to both purists and adventurous eaters.
Let’s take a flavorful journey through some of Nashville’s most esteemed barbecue establishments.
Founded by pitmaster Pat Martin, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint is synonymous with authentic West Tennessee whole-hog barbecue. Each hog is smoked over hickory wood for nearly 24 hours, ensuring tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth. Beyond the succulent pork, their menu boasts a variety of smoked meats, including brisket and ribs, complemented by classic Southern sides like cornbread and slaw. The relaxed ambiance, complete with communal picnic tables and live music, offers a quintessential Southern barbecue experience.
Located in Nashville’s Gulch neighborhood, Peg Leg Porker is the brainchild of pitmaster Carey Bringle. This establishment is renowned for its dry-rubbed ribs, which are smoked to perfection and served without sauce, allowing the rich flavors of the meat to shine. For those who prefer a saucier bite, their pulled pork sandwiches drizzled with a tangy vinegar-based sauce are a must-try. The casual setting, adorned with barbecue trophies and memorabilia, adds to the eatery’s authentic charm.
Edley’s Bar-B-Que pays homage to all things Southern, offering a diverse menu that reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions. Their smoked meats, particularly the brisket and burnt ends, have garnered rave reviews for their tenderness and depth of flavor. Beyond the meats, Edley’s is celebrated for its inventive sides, such as barbecue nachos and a hearty mac ‘n’ cheese. With multiple locations across Nashville, each exuding a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Edley’s has cemented its place in the city’s barbecue scene.
Strategically situated on the bustling Broadway strip, Jack’s Bar-B-Que has been a staple for both locals and tourists since its inception. Offering a variety of regional barbecue styles under one roof, patrons can savor Tennessee pork shoulder, Texas beef brisket, and St. Louis-style ribs. The array of sauces, from Kansas City sweet to Carolina mustard, allows diners to customize their barbecue experience. The rustic interior, with its wooden beams and country decor, evokes a sense of nostalgia and Southern hospitality.
5. Mary’s Old Fashioned Pit Bar-B-Que
A true Nashville gem, Mary’s Old Fashioned Pit Bar-B-Que has been serving the community since 1962. This family-owned establishment is famed for its rib sandwich, a generous serving of tender ribs nestled between slices of white bread. The mustard-based sauce, with its peppery and vinegar notes, perfectly complements the smoky meat. The walk-up window service and straightforward menu harken back to simpler times, making it a beloved spot for traditional barbecue enthusiasts.
For those seeking a Texas-style barbecue experience in Nashville, Shotgun Willie’s BBQ is the place to be. Known for its expertly smoked brisket, which boasts a perfect smoke ring and moist interior, this establishment has quickly gained a loyal following. The jalapeño cheddar sausage offers a spicy kick, while sides like creamy coleslaw and potato salad provide a cooling counterpoint. The laid-back atmosphere, often accompanied by live country music, enhances the overall dining experience.
7. Central BBQ
Originating from Memphis, Central BBQ has brought its acclaimed flavors to Nashville, much to the delight of barbecue aficionados. Their ribs, available in both wet and dry styles, are a testament to their mastery of the craft. Pulled pork sandwiches, topped with tangy slaw, and smoked hot wings further showcase their versatility. The vibrant interior, adorned with blues memorabilia, creates an inviting and lively dining environment.
Located in the Bellevue neighborhood, HoneyFire BBQ offers a modern twist on traditional barbecue. Signature dishes like the “HoneyFire Wings,” glazed with a sweet and spicy sauce, and the “Tennessee Taco,” featuring pulled pork and jalapeño slaw in a soft tortilla, exemplify their innovative approach. The contemporary decor, coupled with a curated selection of craft beers, makes it a popular spot for both casual lunches and evening gatherings.
Situated in the heart of downtown, Rippy’s Honky Tonk combines the best of Nashville’s music and barbecue scenes. Their ribs are particularly noteworthy, offering a tender bite with a flavorful bark. Beyond barbecue, the menu includes Southern staples like fried catfish and hearty chili. With live bands performing daily, Rippy’s provides an authentic Nashville experience where great food and music converge.
A recent addition to Nashville’s barbecue landscape, Bringle’s Smoking Oasis has quickly made a name for itself. Founded by Carey Bringle of Peg Leg Porker fame, this establishment offers a Texas-style barbecue menu, featuring highlights like beef ribs, slow-smoked brisket, jalapeño sausage, and notably, thick-sliced pastrami. Its recognition by Southern Living as one of the top new barbecue restaurants in the South speaks volumes about its quality and innovation.
Nashville’s barbecue scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Each establishment offers its unique take on smoked meats, sauces, and sides, ensuring that both residents and visitors can find flavors that resonate with their personal preferences. Whether you’re a fan of Memphis-style dry rubs, Texas-style brisket, or Carolina-inspired vinegar sauces, Nashville has something to satisfy every barbecue craving. To truly appreciate the city’s diverse barbecue culture, it’s worth exploring multiple spots and comparing the nuances in flavors, textures, and cooking techniques.
What Makes Nashville BBQ Unique?
While Nashville may not have a singular defining barbecue style like Texas or the Carolinas, the city’s barbecue culture is a melting pot of regional influences. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- A Blend of Regional Styles: Nashville’s barbecue scene embraces flavors from across the South. You’ll find Memphis-style dry-rub ribs, Texas-style brisket, and Carolina-inspired pulled pork, sometimes all on the same menu.
- Signature Sauces: Many Nashville barbecue joints pride themselves on their house-made sauces, ranging from tangy vinegar-based blends to thick, molasses-rich Kansas City-style options.
- Whole-Hog Barbecue: Thanks to places like Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint, whole-hog barbecue has gained a strong presence in Nashville, showcasing a tradition more commonly associated with West Tennessee and the Carolinas.
- Creative Twists: While traditionalists can find classic smoked meats, Nashville is also home to many pitmasters experimenting with modern takes on barbecue, like brisket tacos, barbecue-topped nachos, and smoked sausage with unique spice blends.
BBQ and Music: A Perfect Pairing
One of the best ways to experience Nashville’s barbecue is in combination with its famous music scene. Many barbecue joints double as live music venues, making for an unforgettable evening of smoky flavors and soulful sounds. Here are some top spots where you can enjoy both:
- Rippy’s Honky Tonk: Located on Broadway, this lively spot offers barbecue plates alongside live country music performances every night.
- Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint (Downtown): With an upstairs beer garden and frequent live music events, this location is perfect for combining barbecue with a laid-back Nashville vibe.
- Jack’s Bar-B-Que: A prime stop for those exploring Broadway, where you can grab a plate of ribs before heading to the next honky-tonk.
Best BBQ Spots for Different Occasions
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, a family gathering, or a late-night barbecue fix, Nashville has the perfect spot for you.
- Best for Families: Edley’s Bar-B-Que – With multiple locations, a kid-friendly menu, and a relaxed atmosphere, Edley’s is a great choice for families.
- Best for Late-Night Cravings: Peg Leg Porker – Open late, this spot is perfect for satisfying your barbecue cravings after a night out in The Gulch.
- Best for a True Southern Experience: Mary’s Old Fashioned Pit Bar-B-Que – A no-frills, old-school barbecue joint with deep roots in the community.
- Best for a Fancy BBQ Date Night: HoneyFire BBQ – With a more modern setting and creative barbecue-inspired dishes, this is a great pick for a date night.
How to Make the Most of Your Nashville BBQ Experience
If you’re planning a barbecue tour of Nashville, here are some pro tips:
- Arrive Early – Some of the best barbecue spots, like Martin’s and Peg Leg Porker, sell out of their most popular items by evening. Arriving early ensures you get the best selection.
- Try Different Styles – Don’t stick to just one restaurant. Nashville’s barbecue variety is what makes it special, so explore a mix of traditional and modern takes on smoked meats.
- Pair with Classic Southern Sides – Mac ‘n’ cheese, baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread are must-try sides that complete the barbecue experience.
- Don’t Forget the Sauce – Many spots have signature sauces that define their barbecue. Try a few different ones to find your favorite.
- Check for Live Music – Some of the best barbecue experiences in Nashville happen in places with a great music lineup. Check the schedules before you go.
Get Your ‘Cue On
Nashville’s barbecue scene is as rich and varied as its musical legacy. Whether you’re in search of melt-in-your-mouth brisket, smoky pulled pork, or fall-off-the-bone ribs, there’s no shortage of incredible options in Music City. With its mix of tradition and innovation, Nashville proves that it’s not just a destination for country music lovers—it’s also a paradise for barbecue enthusiasts.
So, the next time you find yourself in Nashville, grab a plate of slow-smoked goodness, soak in the live music, and enjoy a true taste of Southern hospitality.
