Best Barbecue Spots in Nashville

When you think of Nashville, you probably think of music, honky-tonks, and hot chicken. But Nashville also has an amazing barbecue scene. From traditional smoked meats to creative modern twists, here are some of the top barbecue joints to check out in Music City.

Old School Nashville BBQ

These classic spots serve traditional slow-smoked barbecue in low key, laidback settings:

• Peg Leg Porker – Plain and simple barbecue like pulled pork, ribs, and brisket. Don’t miss the fried catfish.
• Edley’s Bar-B-Que – Texas-style barbecue with locations around Nashville. Go for the loaded brisket baked potato.
• Jack’s Bar-B-Que – Cash-only neighborhood spot open since 1988, known for ribs and sides.

Modern Barbecue

Newer Nashville spots put creative spins on barbecue classics:

• Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint – Traditional meats plus surprises like the Redneck Taco and pork belly banh mi.
• The Southern Steak & Oyster – Upscale spot with gourmet takes like smoked duck and dry-aged steaks alongside classic barbecue.
• Slow Burn Hot Chicken – Blends Nashville’s famous hot chicken with smoked meat plates and sandwiches.

Live Fire Barbecue

These spots use live-fire, wood-burning pits for extra smoky barbecue flavor:

• Smokin’ Thighs – Unique sauces and rubs on smoked, fried, or grilled chicken thighs.
• Bastion – Trendy Wedgewood-Houston spot for live-fire dishes and natural wines.
• The Smokery – Specializes in Texas-style brisket and sausage smoked over live oak.

Barbecue Brunch

Start your day Nashville-style at these spots serving barbecue breakfast and brunch:

• The Loveless Cafe – Nashville institution for scratch biscuits with smoked meats and preserves.
• Smoke House – Brunch featuring eggs Benedict topped with pulled pork and beef brisket hash.
• Edley’s Bar-B-Que – Southern brunch plates include brisket hash and eggs, banana bread French toast, and more.

FAQ About Nashville BBQ

What type of barbecue is Nashville known for?

Nashville is known for a range of barbecue styles from Texas-style brisket to Memphis dry-rub ribs to local touches like smoked hot chicken.

Which restaurants use live-fire pits?

Bastion, Smokin’ Thighs, and The Smokery are popular spots cooking over live wood-burning pits.

Are Nashville barbecue restaurants family friendly?

Most classic Nashville barbecue joints like Peg Leg Porker and Jack’s Bar-B-Que are very casual, family-friendly settings.

What side dishes pair best with Nashville barbecue?

Classic Southern sides like hushpuppies, baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, and collard greens pair perfectly with Nashville barbecue.

Is barbecue popular for brunch in Nashville?

Yes, several spots like The Loveless Cafe and Edley’s serve creative barbecue brunch dishes on weekends. It’s a local favorite.