Memphis is a city synonymous with BBQ, and its pork ribs are legendary. Known for their tender meat, smoky flavor, and tangy sauces, Memphis-style ribs are a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s a guide to the top 10 best BBQ pork ribs in Memphis that you need to taste.
List of Top 10 Best BBQ Pork Ribs in Memphis
1. Central BBQ
Central BBQ is a Memphis institution famous for its slow-smoked, flavorful pork ribs. Their dry-rubbed ribs are a hit among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s secret blend of spices, combined with their meticulous smoking process, ensures that each rack of ribs is perfectly tender and infused with smoky goodness. Be sure to try their tangy BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
2. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
While Gus’s is renowned for its fried chicken, their BBQ pork ribs are also a hidden gem. The ribs are generously coated with a zesty rub and slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a mouth-watering, fall-off-the-bone experience that complements their famous fried chicken.
3. Rendezvous
Rendezvous is another iconic BBQ spot in Memphis, celebrated for its unique dry-rubbed ribs. The restaurant’s signature seasoning blend gives the ribs a distinctive flavor that’s both spicy and sweet. Served with a side of their famous BBQ sauce, Rendezvous’ ribs are a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Memphis BBQ experience.
4. Payne’s Bar-B-Que
Payne’s Bar-B-Que is a local favorite known for its hearty, flavorful BBQ ribs. The ribs here are slow-cooked and smothered in a rich, tangy sauce that enhances the smoky flavor. Payne’s has been a staple in the Memphis BBQ scene for years, and their ribs continue to impress with their consistent quality and bold flavors.
5. The Bar-B-Q Shop
The Bar-B-Q Shop offers a variety of BBQ options, but their pork ribs are particularly noteworthy. The ribs are coated in a sweet and spicy dry rub and smoked to perfection. Their BBQ sauce is a fan favorite, providing a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness that complements the tender meat.
6. Memphis BBQ Company
Memphis BBQ Company is known for its commitment to authentic Memphis-style BBQ. Their ribs are seasoned with a blend of spices, slow-cooked, and finished with a glaze of their homemade BBQ sauce. The result is a succulent and flavorful rack of ribs that’s sure to satisfy any BBQ enthusiast.
7. Soul Fish Café
Soul Fish Café brings a unique twist to Memphis BBQ with their delicious pork ribs. The ribs are slow-cooked and coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce. The café’s relaxed atmosphere and tasty ribs make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends and family.
8. BBQ Shop
BBQ Shop is a well-loved establishment known for its consistently excellent ribs. The dry-rubbed ribs are cooked to perfection, with a smoky flavor that’s complemented by their tangy BBQ sauce. The BBQ Shop’s ribs are a great choice for those who appreciate a balance of spice and sweetness.
9. Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous
Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous, also known simply as Rendezvous, has been serving up some of the best BBQ in Memphis for decades. Their ribs are a classic example of Memphis-style BBQ, featuring a distinctive dry rub and a touch of smoky flavor. The ribs are served with a side of their signature BBQ sauce, making for a truly memorable meal.
10. BBQ Kings
BBQ Kings is a newer player in the Memphis BBQ scene, but their pork ribs have quickly gained a following. The ribs are expertly seasoned and smoked, with a delicious BBQ sauce that adds just the right amount of tanginess. BBQ Kings is a must-visit for those seeking a fresh take on Memphis-style ribs.
Conclusion
Memphis is a city where BBQ is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition. These top 10 BBQ pork ribs spots represent the best of what Memphis has to offer, each with its own unique take on this beloved dish. Whether you prefer a dry rub or a saucy finish, you’re sure to find a favorite among these standout establishments.
