Tennessee has built its reputation on slow-smoked meats, secret rubs, and sauces that keep folks coming back for more. From Memphis to Nashville and beyond, certain BBQ joints have reached legendary status, drawing crowds that spill onto sidewalks and around corners. These beloved spots prove that when the food is this good, people are happy to wait as long as it takes to get a taste.
1. Peg Leg Porker (Nashville)
Pitmaster Carey Bringle named this Gulch hotspot after his own story, and the authenticity shows in every bite. His dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork have turned this place into a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
Weekend mornings see lines forming well before the doors open. Regulars suggest arriving at least 30 minutes early to beat the rush, especially on Saturdays.
The no-sauce-needed philosophy here lets the smoke do the talking. Each rack gets hours in the pit, building that pink ring and tender texture people travel across state lines to experience.
2. Shotgun Willie’s BBQ (Madison/Nashville)
Operating hours at Shotgun Willie’s come with a warning: 11 to 3, or until everything sells out. That second part happens more often than you might think, turning punctuality into strategy for BBQ lovers…