Tennessee takes its barbecue seriously, and the proof is in the smoke curling out of pits across the state. From Nashville to Knoxville to Chattanooga, these joints have built loyal followings one rack of ribs at a time.
You do not need a sign when the smell hits you from a block away. Here are 12 Tennessee barbecue spots where the smoke tells you everything you need to know before you even walk through the door.
Shotgun Willie’s BBQ – Madison, Tennessee
Just north of Nashville in Madison, Shotgun Willie’s BBQ carries the kind of no-frills attitude that serious barbecue fans respect. The name alone tells you this place has personality to spare.
Pull up on a weekend and the smoke rolling off the pits will stop you in your tracks…