How to Find the Best BBQ Catering in Memphis

Memphis is more than just the birthplace of the blues—it’s a sacred ground for barbecue lovers. With smoky ribs, tender pulled pork, and sauce-soaked brisket wafting through the air, the city’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its barbecue tradition. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, corporate event, wedding, or neighborhood gathering, finding the best BBQ catering in Memphis isn’t just about ordering food—it’s about delivering an authentic, unforgettable experience. The right caterer doesn’t just serve meat; they serve culture, history, and flavor that can’t be replicated elsewhere. But with dozens of options—from legendary pitmasters with decades of experience to newer entrants riding the wave of foodie trends—how do you cut through the noise and find the one that truly stands out?

This guide is your comprehensive roadmap to discovering the best BBQ catering in Memphis. We’ll walk you through a step-by-step process, share insider best practices, recommend trusted tools and resources, highlight real-world examples of standout caterers, and answer the most common questions you’ll encounter along the way. By the end, you won’t just know where to order barbecue—you’ll know how to choose a caterer who understands the soul of Memphis BBQ and can deliver it flawlessly for your event.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Define Your Event Needs and Budget

Before you begin searching for caterers, take time to outline the specifics of your event. This foundational step ensures you don’t waste time evaluating options that don’t align with your goals. Ask yourself:

• How many guests will you be serving?
• Is this an indoor or outdoor event? This affects setup, serving style, and equipment needs.
• Do you need full-service catering (servers, chafing dishes, linens) or drop-off only?
• Are there dietary restrictions or preferences among your guests (e.g., no pork, vegetarian sides)?
• What is your budget range per person?

Memphis BBQ catering typically ranges from $15 to $40 per person, depending on the quality of meat, portion size, sides, and service level. High-end caterers using heritage breeds, house-made sauces, and wood-smoked meats will be at the upper end. Budget-conscious options may offer simpler platters but still deliver authentic flavor.

Once you have these parameters, you can filter caterers more efficiently. A caterer who specializes in 200-person weddings won’t be the right fit for a 20-person office lunch, and vice versa.

Step 2: Research Local BBQ Caterers with Precision

Don’t rely on generic search results like “best BBQ in Memphis.” Instead, use targeted keywords to find caterers specifically:

• “Memphis BBQ catering services”
• “BBQ catering for weddings Memphis”
• “authentic Memphis BBQ caterer near me”
• “Memphis pulled pork catering”

Use Google Maps to locate caterers physically close to your event venue. Proximity matters for timely delivery and temperature control. Look for businesses with:

• At least 10–15 reviews
• A consistent rating of 4.5 stars or higher
• Photos of actual food, not stock images
• Clear descriptions of menu offerings and pricing

Also, explore local food blogs and forums like Memphis Flyer, Visit Memphis, and Reddit’s r/Memphis. These often feature candid reviews and hidden gems that don’t show up in paid ads.

Step 3: Evaluate Menus for Authenticity and Variety

True Memphis BBQ is defined by specific preparations. A reputable caterer will offer:

• Pulled pork—slow-smoked for 12+ hours, chopped by hand, and served with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce (not sweet, like Kansas City style).
• Ribs—either “Memphis style” (dry-rubbed with spices, no sauce) or “wet” (lightly sauced).
• Brisket—less common in Memphis than Texas, but high-quality caterers often smoke it with hickory or oak.
• Chicken—smoked whole or in pieces, often glazed with a spicy-sweet sauce.

Look for caterers who list their smoking wood (hickory, apple, cherry), cooking time (12–18 hours), and sauce recipes. Avoid places that offer “BBQ tacos,” “BBQ pizza,” or fusion dishes unless you’re specifically seeking modern twists. Traditionalists value purity of flavor.

Also check side dishes. Authentic Memphis BBQ sides include:

• Collard greens (cooked with smoked turkey or ham hock)
• Baked beans with molasses and bacon
• Cornbread (slightly sweet, crumbly texture)
• Mac and cheese with a crispy top
• Pickled vegetables and coleslaw (vinegar-based, not creamy)

A caterer who offers only potato salad and french fries may not understand the regional tradition.

Step 4: Read Customer Reviews with a Critical Eye

Not all reviews are equal. Look for patterns in feedback:

• Consistent praise for meat tenderness and smoke flavor
• Comments about punctuality and presentation
• Notes on sauce quality—“too sweet,” “perfect tang,” “sauce on the side”
• Red flags: “food arrived cold,” “ran out of ribs,” “unprofessional staff”

Pay special attention to reviews from events similar to yours. A caterer who did a 50-person birthday party may not handle a 300-person corporate event well. Look for reviews mentioning:

• “They brought extra serving utensils and chafing dishes”
• “The meat was still warm after 2 hours”
• “The caterer helped us plan portions based on our guest count”

Be wary of businesses with perfect 5-star ratings and no negative feedback—this can sometimes indicate fake reviews. Authentic businesses have a few 4-star reviews with constructive criticism.

Step 5: Contact Top Contenders for Quotes and Tastings

Narrow your list to 3–5 caterers and reach out directly. Ask for:

• A detailed written quote (itemized by meat, sides, service, delivery, setup, cleanup)
• Availability on your event date
• Whether they offer tastings (many do for events over 50 guests)

A tasting is one of the most valuable steps. You can’t judge BBQ from photos. During a tasting, evaluate:

• Texture of the meat—does it pull apart easily or is it dry?
• Smoke penetration—can you taste the wood, or is it just charred?
• Sauce balance—does it enhance the meat or overpower it?
• Side dish quality—do the greens taste like they were cooked with real smoked meat, or are they bland?

Ask the caterer questions during the tasting:

• “What type of wood do you use?”
• “How long do you smoke your ribs?”
• “Do you make your sauce in-house?”
• “Can you accommodate last-minute guest count changes?”

Professional caterers welcome these questions. Hesitation or vague answers are warning signs.

Step 6: Check Licensing, Insurance, and Food Safety

Memphis requires all food service providers to hold a valid food handler’s permit and liability insurance. Ask for proof of:

• Current health department inspection rating (should be “A” or “Excellent”)
• General liability insurance ($1 million minimum recommended)
• Workers’ compensation (if they employ staff)

Reputable caterers will have no issue providing this documentation. Avoid those who say, “We’ve never had a problem,” or “It’s not necessary.” Food safety is non-negotiable.

Step 7: Confirm Logistics and Service Details

Once you’ve chosen a caterer, lock in the details in writing. Confirm:

• Delivery and setup time
• Number of staff on-site (if full-service)
• Equipment provided (trays, tongs, napkins, chafing dishes, heating units)
• Breakdown and cleanup responsibilities
• Weather contingency plan (for outdoor events)
• Payment schedule and cancellation policy

Many caterers require a 50% deposit to secure your date. Ensure the contract includes a clause for guest count flexibility (e.g., “Final headcount due 72 hours prior; no penalty for reductions under 10%”).

Best Practices

Plan Ahead—Book at Least 4–8 Weeks in Advance

Memphis BBQ caterers, especially the top-tier ones, book up quickly. Popular weekends, holidays, and spring/fall seasons are especially competitive. Waiting until the last minute limits your options and may force you to compromise on quality.

Top caterers like Central BBQ or Bar-B-Q Shop often require 6–8 weeks’ notice for events over 100 guests. Even mid-sized caterers recommend 4 weeks minimum.

Opt for Family-Style or Buffet Service

Memphis BBQ is meant to be shared. Avoid plated meals unless you’re hosting a formal affair. Family-style serving allows guests to serve themselves, encourages interaction, and reduces waste. Buffets with clearly labeled dishes (e.g., “Dry-Rub Ribs,” “Sweet Sauce Pork”) make it easy for guests to choose.

Include serving utensils for each dish and label all allergens (e.g., “Contains Pork,” “Contains Nuts in Coleslaw”).

Ask for Sauce on the Side

Authentic Memphis BBQ is often served with sauce on the side. This allows guests to customize their experience. Many purists prefer their meat without sauce, letting the smoke and rub shine. A caterer who only offers sauce drenched on the meat may not understand regional tradition.

Request Leftover Packaging

Most guests love taking home extra BBQ. Ask your caterer if they provide take-home containers. Many include this as part of their service. If not, bring your own reusable containers—it’s a thoughtful touch that guests appreciate.

Consider Seasonal Offerings

Some caterers offer limited-time specials: smoked turkey for Thanksgiving, jalapeño cornbread in summer, or pecan pie for holidays. Ask if they have seasonal sides or desserts that can elevate your event.

Don’t Neglect the Beverage Pairing

BBQ and beverages go hand-in-hand. While beer (especially local craft brews like Memphis Brewing Co. or 1872 Brewing) is classic, consider offering:

• Sweet tea (a Southern staple)
• Unsweetened iced tea
• House-made lemonade
• Non-alcoholic ginger beer

A caterer who understands pairing will suggest complementary drinks and may even offer a signature cocktail or mocktail.

Communicate Clearly with the Caterer

Provide the caterer with:

• Exact event address and parking instructions
• Point of contact on-site
• Special requests (e.g., “No peanuts due to allergies,” “Need a quiet setup area”)
• Event timeline (when guests arrive, when food should be served)

Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures a smooth experience.

Tools and Resources

Google Maps and Google Reviews

Use Google Maps to search “BBQ catering Memphis” and sort by rating and distance. Filter by “Open now” if you’re last-minute. Click into each listing to read reviews, view photos, and check business hours. Look for posts from customers who uploaded images of their events.

Yelp and TripAdvisor

Yelp remains a reliable source for local business reviews. Use filters to sort by “Top Reviewers” and “Most Recent.” TripAdvisor often features event planners who’ve used caterers for weddings and corporate events.

Facebook Groups

Join local groups like:

• “Memphis Foodies”
• “Memphis Event Planners”
• “Memphis Community Board”

Post a request: “Looking for BBQ catering for a 75-person wedding in June. Any recommendations with great reviews?” You’ll often get real, unfiltered suggestions from locals.

Memphis BBQ Trail

Visit the official Memphis BBQ Trail website (memphisbbqtrail.com). It’s a curated list of the city’s most celebrated barbecue joints, many of which offer catering. The site includes maps, menus, and contact info. It’s a trusted resource endorsed by the Memphis Tourism Board.

Local Food Festivals

Attend events like the Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (May) or the BBQ & Brew Festival (October). These events feature top caterers and pitmasters. Sample their food, talk to them directly, and collect business cards. Many offer exclusive catering deals to attendees.

Instagram and TikTok

Search hashtags like:

• MemphisBBQ

• MemphisCatering

• BBQCateringMemphis

• MemphisFoodie

Follow caterers who post behind-the-scenes videos of their smoking process, meat prep, or event setups. Real-time content reveals their passion and professionalism.

Event Planning Platforms

Platforms like Thumbtack and WeddingWire allow you to compare caterers side-by-side, read verified reviews, and request quotes. Filter by “Memphis,” “BBQ,” and “Catering” to find qualified providers.

Real Examples

Central BBQ

Founded in 1996, Central BBQ is a Memphis institution. Their catering division serves everything from backyard parties to Fortune 500 events. Known for their dry-rub ribs and signature “Central Sauce” (a balanced blend of vinegar, tomato, and spice), they offer full-service catering with chafing dishes, servers, and even branded signage.

Client testimonial: “We had 150 guests at our daughter’s graduation party. The meat was the talk of the night. The staff arrived early, set up beautifully, and even refilled plates without being asked. We’ve been recommending them ever since.”

Bar-B-Q Shop

Located in the historic South Memphis neighborhood, Bar-B-Q Shop has been family-owned since 1983. Their catering menu features slow-smoked pork shoulder, chopped beef brisket, and house-made baked beans cooked with smoked sausage. They specialize in drop-off catering for smaller events (20–80 guests) and are known for their affordability and consistency.

Why they stand out: They use a blend of hickory and applewood, smoke meats for 16 hours, and never freeze their proteins. Their coleslaw is vinegar-based and crunchy—exactly how Memphians prefer it.

Cozy Corner Restaurant

Cozy Corner is one of the few African American-owned BBQ establishments in Memphis with a 50-year legacy. Their catering menu includes “Memphis-style” chicken (smoked and glazed with a spicy-sweet sauce), collard greens with smoked turkey, and cornbread baked in cast iron. They’ve catered for city officials, churches, and community events.

Notable feature: They offer a “Community Plate” option—large platters designed for 10–15 people at a discounted rate, perfect for neighborhood gatherings.

Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous

Though best known for their downtown restaurant, Rendezvous offers catering for special events. Their dry-rubbed ribs are legendary—no sauce, just a spice blend of 19 herbs and spices, applied by hand. Their catering team is highly professional, with experience in high-end events like weddings and gala dinners.

Unique offering: They provide a “Rendezvous Experience” package that includes a live blues musician and custom signage with your event details.

Smoky Bones (Local Independent)

Not to be confused with the national chain, this small, locally owned operation has gained a cult following for their smoked turkey sandwich catering. They use heritage-breed turkeys, smoke them over pecan wood, and serve them with pickled red onions and a house-made mustard sauce. Their clients include tech startups and creative agencies who appreciate their artisanal approach.

Why they’re different: They offer vegan sides like smoked jackfruit “pulled pork” and collard greens with coconut milk, catering to diverse dietary needs without compromising authenticity.

FAQs

What makes Memphis BBQ different from other styles?

Memphis BBQ is defined by its dry-rubbed ribs and vinegar-based sauces. Unlike Kansas City’s sweet, thick sauce or Texas’s focus on brisket, Memphis emphasizes spice rubs, slow smoking, and minimal sauce. The meat should speak for itself.

How much BBQ should I order per person?

For a main course, plan for 1/2 to 3/4 pound of meat per person. If you’re serving multiple meats (pork, ribs, chicken), reduce to 1/3–1/2 pound per type. Sides are typically 1/2 cup per person. Always order 10–15% extra to account for hearty appetites and leftovers.

Can I get vegetarian or vegan BBQ catering in Memphis?

Yes. While traditional Memphis BBQ is meat-centric, many modern caterers now offer smoked jackfruit, tofu “ribs,” or portobello mushrooms with dry rubs. Vegan sides like black-eyed peas, cornbread without butter, and collard greens cooked with vegetable broth are also available. Always ask in advance.

Do I need to provide plates, utensils, and napkins?

Most full-service caterers include these. For drop-off catering, confirm whether disposables are included. If not, plan to provide them. Eco-friendly options like compostable plates are increasingly popular.

Can I taste the food before booking?

Yes, and you should. Most reputable caterers offer tastings for events over 50 guests. Some charge a small fee (often waived if you book). Never skip this step.

How far in advance should I book for a holiday event?

For holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, or Christmas, book 3–4 months ahead. These are peak seasons, and top caterers fill up quickly.

What’s the average tip for BBQ catering staff?

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s customary to leave 15–20% for full-service catering (if gratuity isn’t included). For drop-off, a $20–$50 thank-you gift card is appreciated.

Can I order BBQ catering for delivery outside Memphis?

Some caterers deliver within a 50-mile radius (e.g., to Germantown, Bartlett, or Collierville). Others offer shipping via insulated boxes with dry ice. Ask about shipping options and costs if your event is outside the city.

How do I know if a caterer is truly authentic?

Authentic Memphis BBQ caterers:

• Smoke meat for 12+ hours
• Use hardwood (hickory, oak, or apple)
• Make sauce in-house
• Offer dry-rub ribs as a signature item
• Use traditional sides (collards, baked beans, cornbread)
• Have been in business for at least 5–10 years

Conclusion

Finding the best BBQ catering in Memphis isn’t a simple task—it’s a journey into the heart of Southern culinary tradition. It requires research, patience, and a willingness to ask the right questions. The right caterer doesn’t just feed your guests; they transport them to a Memphis backyard on a summer evening, where the smell of hickory smoke lingers in the air and every bite tells a story.

By following this guide—from defining your needs and researching with precision to tasting, verifying credentials, and confirming logistics—you’ll avoid the pitfalls of last-minute decisions and subpar service. You’ll choose a caterer who respects the craft, understands the culture, and delivers excellence on every plate.

Memphis BBQ is more than food—it’s heritage. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, uniting family, or honoring a community, the caterer you choose becomes part of that legacy. Take the time to find the one whose passion matches your purpose. The smoky, savory, soulful results will be worth every step.

Now that you know how to find the best BBQ catering in Memphis, it’s time to plan your event. Reach out to your top contenders, schedule a tasting, and get ready to serve a meal that will be talked about for years to come.