Pulling up to Payne’s Bar-B-Que, the first thing you notice is the smell drifting through the air, rich, smoky, and impossible to ignore. This small Tennessee spot keeps things simple, but the ribs do all the talking once they hit the table.
Each rack comes out tender with just the right bite, coated in a bold, slightly tangy sauce that lingers in the best way. Regulars don’t need to scan the menu because they already know what they’re ordering.
There’s something satisfying about food that stays consistent year after year, and that’s exactly what keeps people returning for another plate of these unforgettable ribs.
A Memphis Institution Worth Knowing About
Some restaurants earn their reputation through flashy decor or clever marketing, but Payne’s Bar-B-Que built its name one sandwich at a time. Located at 1762 Lamar Ave in Memphis, TN 38114, this humble cinderblock building has been a neighborhood anchor for more than 50 years…