How to Plan a Memphis BBQ Crawl

Memphis, Tennessee, is more than just the birthplace of rock n roll and the bluesits the undisputed capital of American barbecue. With its slow-smoked ribs, tender pulled pork, and signature dry rubs, Memphis BBQ has earned a cult following among food lovers across the country. But experiencing the full breadth of Memphis barbecue isnt about visiting one famous spotits about embarking on a deliberate, thoughtful journey across the citys most iconic joints. Thats where a Memphis BBQ crawl comes in.

A Memphis BBQ crawl is not simply a series of mealsits a curated culinary expedition that blends history, technique, local culture, and personal taste. Planning one requires more than just a list of restaurants; it demands an understanding of regional styles, timing, logistics, and the subtle differences that separate a great rib from an unforgettable one. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned barbecue enthusiast, a well-planned crawl transforms a casual food trip into a memorable, immersive experience.

This guide will walk you through every step of planning a Memphis BBQ crawlfrom researching the best spots and mapping your route to pacing your meals and understanding the nuances of Memphis-style barbecue. Youll learn how to avoid common pitfalls, leverage expert tools, and discover hidden gems that even many locals overlook. By the end, youll have a comprehensive, actionable blueprint to create your own unforgettable BBQ crawl through the heart of Tennessee.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand the Two Styles of Memphis BBQ

Before you even begin mapping out your crawl, you need to understand the two distinct styles of Memphis barbecue: dry-rubbed and wet-rubbed (or sauced). These arent just different saucesthey represent fundamentally different philosophies in preparation and flavor.

Dry-rubbed ribs are coated in a spice blendtypically paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepperthen smoked low and slow. The result is a crusty, flavorful bark with no sauce on the meat. Diners often receive a side of sauce on the side, allowing them to choose whether to add it. This style highlights the quality of the meat and the balance of the rub.

Wet-rubbed or sauced ribs are basted with a tangy, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce during the final stages of smoking. The sauce clings to the meat, creating a glossy, sticky finish. Many traditionalists argue that wet ribs are easier to eat, while dry ribs showcase the chefs skill in seasoning.

Knowing this distinction helps you plan your crawl strategically. Some spots specialize in dry ribs (like Central BBQ), while others are known for their sauce (like Corkys). Your crawl should include at least one representative of each style to fully appreciate Memphiss barbecue diversity.

Step 2: Research and Curate Your List of BBQ Joints

Memphis has over 50 barbecue restaurants, but not all are created equal. Start by compiling a list of the most respected establishments based on local reputation, national recognition, and consistency. Use trusted food publications like Food & Wine, Bon Apptit, and Saveur, as well as local blogs like Memphis Flyer and Grub Street Memphis.

Heres a foundational list to consider:

• Central BBQ Known for its dry-rubbed ribs and house-made sauces.
• Barbaras BBQ A no-frills, family-run spot with legendary pulled pork.
• Corkys BBQ Famous for its sweet, thick sauce and large portions.
• Cozy Corner Restaurant A historic Black-owned institution with deep roots in the community.
• Charlie Vergos Rendezvous The original Memphis dry-rubbed ribs, served in a basement cave since 1948.
• Leonards BBQ A local favorite with a cult following for its burnt ends and brisket.
• Bar-B-Q Shop A hidden gem in the suburbs with exceptional smoked chicken.

Dont just pick the most famous names. Include at least one lesser-known spot to balance your crawl with authenticity. For example, Big Apple BBQ in the Raleigh neighborhood is beloved by locals but rarely mentioned in tourist guides.

Step 3: Map Your Route for Efficiency

Memphis is a sprawling city, and traffic can be unpredictable. A poorly planned route can turn a 3-hour crawl into a 6-hour ordeal. Use Google Maps or a dedicated route planner like Waze or MapQuest to plot your stops in geographic order.

Start in downtown Memphis (Rendezvous, Central BBQ) and work outward. For example:

1. Charlie Vergos Rendezvous Downtown (126 N. 2nd St)
2. Central BBQ Midtown (2952 Central Ave)
3. Cozy Corner South Memphis (1245 S. Lauderdale St)
4. Barbaras BBQ East Memphis (1449 S. McLean Blvd)
5. Corkys BBQ South Memphis (1590 S. Cooper St)

Grouping locations by neighborhood reduces backtracking and saves time. Aim for no more than 45 stops in a single day to avoid palate fatigue and rushed meals.

Step 4: Schedule Meals Strategically

Timing is everything. Most Memphis BBQ joints are open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., but lines form early. Avoid lunch rush (12:302 p.m.) if possible. Aim to arrive at your first stop by 11:30 a.m. to beat the crowd.

Structure your crawl like a tasting menu:

• First Stop (11:30 a.m.) Start with the most iconic: Rendezvous. Order dry ribs and a side of slaw.
• Second Stop (1:30 p.m.) Central BBQ. Try their signature dry ribs and smoked chicken.
• Third Stop (3:30 p.m.) Cozy Corner. Sample their pulled pork and baked beans.
• Fourth Stop (5:30 p.m.) Barbaras BBQ. Go for the burnt ends and cornbread.
• Fifth Stop (7:00 p.m.) Corkys. End with their wet ribs and banana pudding.

Allow 6090 minutes per stop, including waiting time, ordering, eating, and taking photos. Dont rush. The goal is savoring, not checking boxes.

Step 5: Order Like a Local

Ordering at a Memphis BBQ joint is an art. Heres how to navigate the menu like a pro:

• Start with ribs Theyre the centerpiece. Ask for dry unless you specifically want sauce.
• Try pulled pork Often served on a bun with coleslaw. Look for a pork sandwich or pork plate.
• Dont skip the sides Baked beans, mac and cheese, and collard greens are essential. Each joint has its own recipe.
• Ask for burnt ends These are the crispy, flavorful ends of the brisket. A true delicacy.
• Save dessert Banana pudding, peach cobbler, and sweet potato pie are common. Save room.

Pro tip: Order a platter instead of a sandwich if you want to sample more variety. Platters include two meats and two sides, making them ideal for a crawl.

Step 6: Prepare for Logistics

Plan your transportation carefully. Memphis has limited public transit, and parking can be tricky in busy areas. Consider renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. If youre driving, confirm parking availability at each locationsome spots have limited spaces.

Bring:

• A reusable water bottle
• Wet wipes or hand sanitizer
• A notebook or phone to take notes on each stop
• Comfortable walking shoes
• A light jacket (many places are air-conditioned or have open-air seating)

Also, carry cash. While most places accept cards, some older establishments (like Rendezvous) still prefer cash for faster service.

Step 7: Document Your Experience

Keep a simple log of each stop: the date, location, what you ordered, how the meat tasted, the ambiance, and your overall impression. This isnt just for nostalgiait helps you refine future crawls.

Take photos of the food, the sign, and the interior. Many of these joints have unique decorfrom Rendezvouss brick cave to Cozy Corners retro diner vibe. These visuals add depth to your memory and can be shared on social media or a personal blog.

Best Practices

Practice Moderation

BBQ is rich, smoky, and often fatty. Eating too much too fast can lead to discomfort. Between stops, drink water, take short walks, and avoid sugary sodas. Many locals pair their meals with unsweetened iced tea or lemonade.

Respect the Culture

Memphis BBQ is deeply tied to African American culinary traditions. Many of the citys most revered spots are Black-owned or have roots in the community. Learn a bit about their history before you visit. At Cozy Corner, for example, the family has been serving since 1956. Acknowledge that legacynot just the food.

Avoid Tourist Traps

Some restaurants near the Peabody Hotel or Beale Street cater to tourists with inflated prices and mediocre meat. Stick to places with consistent local patronage. Look for lines of Memphis residentsnot just out-of-towners.

Dont Skip the Sauce

Even if you order dry ribs, try the sauce. Each joint makes its ownsome are vinegar-based, others sweet and molasses-heavy. Taste them side by side. You might find a new favorite.

Be Flexible

Some spots run out of meat early, especially on weekends. If your first choice is sold out, have a backup plan. Central BBQ might be out of brisket, but their chicken is always reliable. Flexibility turns a potential disappointment into an adventure.

Engage with Staff

Ask the pitmaster or server what their favorite item is. Many will recommend something off-menu or a special of the day. These insider tips often lead to the best bites of your crawl.

Time Your Visit Around Events

Memphis hosts the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest every May. While its a spectacle, its also the best time to taste hundreds of entries from top pitmasters. Plan your crawl around the event for an unparalleled experience. Just expect crowds and higher prices.

Tools and Resources

Mapping Tools

Use Google Maps to save your list of BBQ joints as a custom map. Label each stop with its specialty (e.g., Dry Ribs, Burnt Ends, Banana Pudding). Enable offline mode so you can navigate without data.

For more detailed route optimization, try MapMyRun or Stravayes, even for food crawls. These apps let you plot walking or driving distances between stops and estimate travel time.

Review Aggregators

Check recent reviews on Yelp and Google Maps. Look for comments like still the best ribs in town or ran out of pork at 4 p.m. These real-time updates are invaluable.

Avoid relying solely on TripAdvisor. Many of Memphiss best BBQ spots are humble and dont attract international tourists, so their ratings may be skewed.

Local Food Blogs and Podcasts

Subscribe to:

• Memphis Foodie A weekly newsletter with BBQ spot reviews and hidden gem alerts.
• Grub Street Memphis In-depth features on pitmasters and history.
• The BBQ Podcast Episodes dedicated to Memphis-style barbecue and interviews with local chefs.

Mobile Apps for BBQ Enthusiasts

Consider downloading:

• BBQ Tracker Log your visits, rate meats, and see what others have tried.
• Yelp Filter by open now and most reviewed to find active spots.
• Google Lens Use it to scan menus or signage if youre unsure of an items name.

Books for Deeper Context

For those who want to go beyond the crawl:

• Smoke & Spice: Cooking with Fire, Smoke, and Strong Flavors by Cheryl and Bill Jamison
• The Barbecue Bible by Steven Raichlen
• Memphis BBQ: The Complete Guide to the Citys Best Ribs, Pulled Pork, and More by Charles D. Brown

Community Resources

Join Facebook groups like Memphis BBQ Lovers or Tennessee Barbecue Enthusiasts. Members often post about last-minute specials, new openings, or closures. Youll also find people willing to join your crawl or give personalized recommendations.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Classic 4-Spot Crawl

John, a food blogger from Chicago, planned his first Memphis BBQ crawl over a weekend. He started at Rendezvous at 11:30 a.m., ordering dry ribs and a side of baked beans. He noted the intense smokiness and the perfect balance of spice in the rub.

Next, he drove to Central BBQ, where he tried the smoked chicken and a side of mac and cheese. He was struck by the smoky depth of the chicken skin and the creamy texture of the cheese.

At Cozy Corner, he ordered the pulled pork sandwich and collard greens. The pork was tender, almost falling apart, and the greens had a subtle hint of vinegar and bacon.

He ended at Corkys, where he sampled the wet ribs and banana pudding. The sauce was sweet but not cloying, and the pudding was the best hed ever had.

Johns takeaway? The dry ribs at Rendezvous were the highlight, but the banana pudding at Corkys made the whole trip unforgettable. He later created a blog post titled The 4 Stops That Made Me Fall in Love with Memphis BBQ, which went viral in food circles.

Example 2: The Hidden Gems Crawl

Marisol, a Memphis native, wanted to show her out-of-town friends the real Memphis. She skipped the tourist spots and went to:

• Bar-B-Q Shop Their smoked chicken was smoky, juicy, and perfectly seasoned.
• Leonards BBQ Known for burnt ends, which she described as caramelized meat candy.
• Barbaras BBQ The cornbread here was moist and sweet, a perfect contrast to the smoky meats.

She ended the day at a local gas station that sold homemade peach cobblersomething most guides overlook. That cobbler, she said, tasted like my grandmothers kitchen.

Her crawl was less about fame and more about authenticity. Her friends left saying, We didnt know Memphis had places like this.

Example 3: The Festival Crawl

In May, the Thompson family attended the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. They didnt just watchthey ate. They sampled entries from 12 different teams, each with a unique rub or sauce. They kept a scorecard: flavor, tenderness, smoke ring, presentation.

They discovered a team from Little Rock that used a secret blend of coffee and cocoa in their rub. They also found a Memphis team that smoked their ribs with pecan wood instead of hickorya subtle but noticeable difference.

After the contest, they visited three local joints to compare the competition-level BBQ to everyday fare. They concluded: The pros are incredible, but the soul is in the local joints.

FAQs

How many BBQ joints should I visit in one day?

Four to five is ideal. More than that leads to palate fatigue and rushed experiences. Quality matters more than quantity.

Do I need to make reservations?

No. Most Memphis BBQ joints are walk-in only. Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.

Whats the best time of year to do a BBQ crawl?

Spring (AprilMay) and fall (SeptemberOctober) offer the best weather and the least humidity. Avoid summer if youre not used to Tennessee heat.

Can I do a BBQ crawl on a budget?

Absolutely. Most platters range from $15$25. Skip the drinks and stick to water. You can enjoy a full crawl for under $100 per person.

Should I bring my own sauce?

Not necessary. Each spot has its own sauce, and tasting them is part of the experience. But if you have a favorite, bring a small bottle to compare.

Is Memphis BBQ healthier than other styles?

Its not healthy, but its traditional. The meat is slow-smoked, not fried. Many sides are vegetable-based. Moderation is key.

What if Im vegetarian?

Most BBQ spots offer limited vegetarian optionsbaked beans, cornbread, coleslaw, and sometimes grilled veggies. Plan ahead or bring a snack. Some newer spots, like Memphis Vegan BBQ, offer plant-based alternatives.

How do I know if a BBQ joint is authentic?

Look for: a wood smoker visible in the kitchen, long lines of locals, handwritten menus, and no fancy dcor. If it looks like a diner with a smoker out back, youre probably in the right place.

Can I ship BBQ home?

Yes. Most reputable joints offer shipping. Rendezvous and Central BBQ ship nationwide. Order ahead and have it vacuum-sealed and frozen.

Whats the most underrated BBQ spot in Memphis?

Many locals swear by Big Apple BBQ in Raleigh. Its off the beaten path, has no sign, and serves some of the best burnt ends in the city.

Conclusion

Planning a Memphis BBQ crawl is more than a food tourits a pilgrimage through one of Americas most cherished culinary traditions. Its about understanding the history behind each rub, the patience of each pitmaster, and the community that keeps these traditions alive. A well-planned crawl doesnt just fill your stomach; it deepens your appreciation for the art of smoke, spice, and time.

By following the steps outlined hereunderstanding the styles, mapping your route, ordering like a local, and respecting the cultureyou transform a simple meal into a meaningful experience. Whether youre a first-timer or a seasoned pitmaster, theres always another rib to try, another sauce to taste, another story to hear.

So grab your notebook, lace up your shoes, and hit the road. Memphis isnt just waiting for you to eat its barbecueits waiting for you to understand it.