Memphis
Memphis has an outsize, Elvis-like view of its own barbecue greatness, with almost 100 locations serving ribs, pulled pork, and other smoky delectables. Every year, Memphis plays host to one of the world's largest barbecue competitions-Memphis in May-a festival that draws almost 100,000 visitors.
2265 S Third St.
662-393-5699
Once ranked by
People magazine as the #2 barbecue purveyor in the nation, owner Jim Neely works hard to make his barbecue tender, smoky, and darn tasty. And yes, he delivers-worldwide! There's also a location in Mississippi.
>> Visit the Web site
Park at 153 Monroe Ave. at Third St. in Memphis; restaurant is across the alley.
(901) 523-2746
A local sensation since 1948, Vergo's is the Arthur Bryant's of Memphis-a must-stop-at for any serious barbecue tourist. Solidly on the "dry" side of the rib divide, the Rendezvous is among the best exemplars of this particular style.
>> Visit the Web site
1762 Lamar Ave.
901-272-1523
Located in an old service station, this place serves a divine pork shoulder sandwich. Sliced, served on white, with slaw and hot sauce, this is serious barbecue that makes finding the place worth while. (Sorry, no Web site.)
5259 Poplar Ave.
901-685-9744
The "wet" to Vergo's "dry," this rapidly expanding behemoth of Memphis barbecue serves up good ribs and tasty 22-hour pork shoulders. Some aficionados might find it familiar: You know those heat-n-serve packaged ribs you find at the local grocery store? Chances are they're modeled on, if not actually from, Corky's. Multiple locations.
>> Visit the Web site
5465 Fox Plaza Dr.
901-360-1963
Since 1922, this old standard has served buffet barbecue, including ribs and pork, that is so good I'm willing to overlook the fact that they serve salads and other "normal food" as well.
>> Visit the Web site
Unlike other places with long-established barbecue styles, in Memphis the great "wet or dry" debate continues to rage ("wet" being sauced ribs like you'd find further north in Kansas City, and "dry" meaning dry-rubbed with spices). It probably comes as no surprise that everyone in Memphis has an opinion on this subject.
