Tennessee is famous for its barbecue, and the state has some of the best smokehouses in the country. What makes these places truly special is that you can smell the smoky, sweet aroma of slow-cooked meat from the parking lot or even down the street.
These twelve barbecue joints have perfected the art of smoking meat, and the scent alone is enough to make your mouth water before you even step inside.
1. Shotgun Willie’s BBQ — Madison
Walking up to this place feels like stepping into a backyard cookout thrown by your favorite uncle. The smokers out front work overtime, sending clouds of hickory-scented goodness into the air that grabs your attention blocks away.
Inside, the menu keeps things straightforward with pulled pork, ribs, brisket, and chicken that’s been kissed by smoke for hours. The meat falls apart with just a fork, and the sauce strikes a perfect balance between tangy and sweet. Sides like mac and cheese and baked beans round out every plate nicely…