Best BBQ Places to Eat in Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee, is famous for its vibrant music scene, but it's also a city that knows how to serve up some delicious barbecue. With a rich tradition of slow-smoked meats, savory sauces, and Southern hospitality, Nashville’s BBQ joints offer a taste of the South that is sure to satisfy. Here are three top BBQ spots in Nashville that you don't want to miss.

1. Peg Leg Porker

Located in the Gulch neighborhood, Peg Leg Porker is a beloved BBQ joint known for its mouthwatering pulled pork, ribs, and brisket. Founded by pitmaster Carey Bringle, Peg Leg Porker takes a no-frills approach to barbecue, focusing on quality and flavor. Their signature dry-rubbed ribs are a standout, offering a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. The pulled pork sandwiches, topped with a tangy vinegar-based slaw, are another fan favorite. The restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with its award-winning BBQ, makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Peg Leg Porker also offers a line of craft Tennessee whiskeys, making it a great place to enjoy a full Southern dining experience.

2. Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a Nashville institution, famous for its whole hog barbecue, a traditional Southern method of cooking an entire pig over a pit. Founded by pitmaster Pat Martin, Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint takes pride in its commitment to authentic, slow-smoked BBQ. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, smoked chicken, and baby back ribs, all cooked fresh daily. The West Nashville location, known for its lively beer garden, is a great place to enjoy a BBQ feast with friends and family. Pair your meal with classic Southern sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and hush puppies, and you’ll experience why Martin’s is a must-visit for BBQ lovers.

3. Edley’s Bar-B-Que

With several locations throughout Nashville, Edley’s Bar-B-Que is a popular spot for those seeking a modern twist on classic Southern BBQ. Known for its “Nashville-style” barbecue, Edley’s serves up a variety of smoked meats, including pulled pork, brisket, turkey, and smoked wings, paired with creative house-made sauces. The atmosphere at Edley’s is casual and welcoming, with outdoor seating and a bar that offers local craft beers and signature cocktails. One of the standout menu items is the BBQ nachos, piled high with smoked meat, cheese, and jalapeños. Whether you’re stopping in for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, Edley’s Bar-B-Que offers a delicious and contemporary take on traditional barbecue.