The Pride and Joy of 901

Although our city is home to a variety of people from different ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities, Memphians are all united over one common passion: barbecue. 

Every local is equipped with their top three favorite joints, always prepared to bust out their list in response to the common request for recommendations from visiting family and friends and tourists. 

There are several distinctives that set Memphis barbecue apart from other regional favorites, such as Kansas and Texas barbecue. Traditionally, many local restaurants slow cook their meat in a pit over high quality wood – a process which gives the meat a rich, deep flavor even before it has been seasoned. The most common staples include pulled pork and classic ribs, which can be made with a signature dry rub or with a wet rub from a tomato-based sauce. Roll up your sleeves for this messy, but deeply satisfying, meal. 

If you are looking for a fun date night or just want to expand your own short list of 901 favorites, we recommend that you try one of These Local Spots. 

A Celebration of the Finest

Memphis’ zeal for good barbecue does not just stop with its local restaurants however. Every year in the month of May, Memphis hosts the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Over 250 teams from around the world compete annually with 100,000 fans and pork enthusiasts in attendance. With such a wide appeal, this competition not only cements Memphis as the national hub for barbecue, but it also draws a large tourist crowd which bolsters the city’s tourist economy and national recognition. This year the contest will be held at Tom Lee Park from May 12 to May 15 (only 1 month away!). You can Purchase Tickets Here.

Ultimately, Memphis barbecue is a celebration of the rich history and culture that the city offers. Barbecue is as much a part of the fabric of our city as the blues, the Grizzlies, and the iconic bridge. Despite disagreements about which local joint is the best, nothing brings people together quite like a good Southern meal made with lots of soul.