My classically and wonderfully Southern friend and her husband took me here to get the cultural Memphis BBQ experience on a random Tuesday night. Wow, this was an experience to treasure. I had the BBQ Nachos pork plate and it was simply addictive. Sure it sounds superficially like a random tailgate treat but this was so much more. The pork had so much flavor and the Nachos weren't the overly greasy salted variety, but genuine crisp taste. Add your pick of BBQ sauce and you are golden. I truly liked the flair of this establishment, with a genuine decorations and a warm and friendly appeal. I really liked how efficient the kitchen was because the food came out super quick. OH AND YES, you have plenty of great alcohol options to mix and match. If the Queen of England went to Memphis, this is where I would take her... The Pope too... he is all about being with the people. read more

I realize that I could get burned at the stake for this blasphemy, but I am seriously still scratching my head at all the hype that Central BBQ gets. Even from trusted personal sources, I don't understand how Central gets consistently branded as "the best bbq in Memphis." I haven't had all the BBQ in Memphis - in fact, I've only tried one other place (and was underwhelmed with the food, but blown away by the customer service). At Central, I was underwhelmed by both the food and lack of customer service (it was borderline surly). My BFF, a sworn meat-hater, RAVES about the ribs at Central as one of the best things about her four-year stint as a grad student at SCO (I haven't the heart to tell her that I thought they were just okay at best). A coworker insisted on my first day ever in Memphis that I needed to check it out (granted, he emphasized the downtown location, which I didn't go to). The hotel clerk stipulated that "tourists go to Rendezvous [I haven't tried it yet], but locals go to Central." A local broker was genuinely surprised at my dislike of the food and then recovered by saying "oh, I never go for the ribs, I just go for the nachos". Madness. I go to Mexican for nachos. BBQ is about the MEAT, dammit. I arrived for a late lunch and Central looks ljke what one would expect a local fave bbq dive to look like. I ordered at the counter, got my water, sat, waited with my order number. I had thankfully missed the lunch crowd (I guess they have one?) and had no problem finding a seat. Someone brought my food out and took my table number without a word. It was a surly, dismal environment - even as I was leaving, I overheard a worker half arguing/half apologizing to a patron that he hadn't intended to be rude about something. It was just uncomfortable since the whole time there was this palpable sense that nobody wanted to be there. I ordered a half rack of ribs, half wet/half dry, with cole slaw and greens. The ribs had good flavor and were mostly tender and fall-off-the bone - EXCEPT that they still had that nasty silver lining on the back of the bones. I'm no bbq expert but even I know that is a sloppy no-no (Myron Mixon would be hollering at that). I didn't taste any difference in flavor profile between the dry and sauced ribs - draw your own conclusions from that. The greens had a good flavor but also the taste and consistency of something in a baby's diaper (you can also draw your own conclusions from that). After two bites I didn't waste my time on the slaw - it was warm and sour, and it was mayonnaise-based so it shouldn't have been either. Overall, wretched execution of all three items, and after shelling out $18 for such a lauded bbq place I left feeling ripped off. So maybe Central IS the best bbq in Memphis, in which case I'll steer away from it when I am in town and stick with the hot chicken (Uncle Lou's, son!) or loaded cheese grits (Brother Junipers, you sexy beast). The only reason I am giving it two stars instead of one is because I would possibly give Central another go at the downtown location (but if it's as bad as this location, than screw it). read more

Central BBQ - A plateful of mediocrity. - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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The main event here - dry rub ribs. Darn near perfect. The bark stays on, the smoke ring is visible, and the meat pulls off the bone clean without being mushy. They nailed it. We also had some pulled pork which was high quality, but needs the tasty sauces that come along with. We tried almost all of the sides, which were your standard BBQ restaurant fare. Recommend the potato salad, mac, and cole slaw. Pay no attention to the reviews complaining about cleanliness or service. We felt welcome, and the love for what they do is apparent. This is the real deal, and authentic as BBQ restaurants come. read more

"So, is this good barbeque?" asked the West Coast friend. "Is there a tie-dyed saber-tooth tiger outside?" replied the wise Missourian. I grew up in St. Louis and have BBQ in my mitochondria. I thought "going out to eat" was walking outside to the grill in the backyard until I was 16. So, when I say that the BBQ is good, it is good. The BBQ is good; I recommend the brisket. Love that super tangy/sweet sauce. Rub it all up on the meat. Pass out. read more

Central BBQ - Eat this BBQ or my tie-dyed sabertooth tiger will destroy your happiness. - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

I love Central BBQ. The food is amazing. With so many other reviews, I'm sure that you've figured out that this place rocks. What you may not have figured out is how to get a sandwich in 5 minutes. I'm here to tell you how. Call ahead and place a to go order. Go in, skip the line, and go to the little window/ door by the fountain drinks. Pay. Go home and eat tasty barbecue. You're welcome. read more

Customer service was good and atmosphere was about average as can be expected. The food is fantastic and is beyond what I expected for my first experience there. Their smoked hot wings are fabulous...... read more

Central BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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This, ladies and gents, was the BEST barbecue pulled pork sandwich I consumed, in America, and thus pretty much I am confident to say would be the best in the world. I travelled half way across the universe and turned left to sample this famous delight. I took 2 local buses from downtown Memphis to get here (and got lost) and boy was it worth it! read more

Central BBQ - You won't get a sandwich better than this! - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

I came from the west coast to Memphis with one thing in mind--RIBS. Boy did Central BBQ deliver. Appearance: The photo speaks for itself. 10/10 Taste: 9/10. excellent. I got the half rack half wet and half dry. The dry rub had excellent crust and highlighted the smokiness of the meat with subtle notes of coffee and cayenne coming through. The wet portion perhaps added even more flavor. Neither needed much additional house sauce. Tenderness: 8/10. Meat was moist and most fell off the bone. Mac and cheese was a solid classic with just the right amount of cream. The slaw was refreshing; it was balanced in its acidity and creaminess. Sweet tea was as it should be--sweet and cold. Price point was very fair considering the quality. Highly recommend for someone wanting the true Memphis BBQ experience. read more

Central BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

I have lived in Memphis for two years but only ever been to the Poplar location until very recently. This location is a TOTALLY different vibe. The one on Poplar was clearly established after Central had become a brand; it's very modern and the "gentrified" version of the original location here. This one is little more than a shack, and I don't know if it's just that I feel more authenticity, but the food is truly better. The two best things on the menu are the smoked wings and the bbq nachos, specifically with house chips instead of tortilla chips. They have the best banana pudding in Memphis. Weird gripe: the soda machine has Coke Zero, but not Diet Coke. You don't see that often. I digress, you should come here. read more

We went to Central BBQ on the way to a Memphis football game (yes, some people do go to these) and were impressed. While Rendezvous (downtown) gets all the hype - and the crowds - this location remains somewhat under the radar (with out of towners) and never gets clogged with crowds. Meanwhile, it does pack value and taste, two things BBQ lovers crave. We tried the pork plate, chicken and ribs and were impressed with each. The sauce was excellent, meat was cooked to perfection and the sweet tea was wonderful. Anyone looking for a quick meal and be full (and not have a hole in their pocket after) will be well served here. read more

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Great food! There was a long line out the door just 1/2 an hour after opening, but it moved very quickly and we received our food super fast. Large portions and friendly staff. Be prepared to eat outside as the dining room fills up fast. The ribs for 2 was a good deal and was plenty of food. Ask for wet ribs. They aren't that wet and I imagine the dry are too dry. read more

Central BBQ - Menu as of 9/4/16 - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

The food here is so so good! However, the service might not be the best depending on the day. But you will def love this place if you are a bbq fan. Best bbq place in memphis read more

Great bar b que!!!! You HAVE to try all of their sauces. See which one you like! I still can't decide! I guess I will just have to go back next time I am in Memphis! read more

Central BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

3rd BBQ spot I've had since being in Memphis. Lots of food. Ribs were the best part of my meal. I ordered the brisket, turkey, and ribs on recommendation. Green beans, macaroni, and rolls on recommendation as well. Sauces were great. Reason for 3 stars was it was just okay. I highly recommend if you go, just order ribs and slaw. Really fun atmosphere outside, pricing was on point, very friendly customer service. Wanted really moist, fatty brisket, but got a leaner cut. To me, turkey just tasted like high quality thicker cut deli meat. Ribs had a great rub, just slightly over cooked in my opinion. Green beans decent and macaroni decent. Could have done without the 2 rolls. Order Texas toast if you have to have bread. read more

Central BBQ - 2 meat plate with ribs. 2 sides. Meat hiding under the ribs. - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

I ordered part of everything and I forgot the fries! I'm from Kansas with my fav Gates, Jacks and Joes...was a little apprehensive when I first arrived. Food came.....BAMmM!!!! The different kinds of sauces made all the difference. Plate with Ribs combination with 2 other kinds of meat - we picked brisket around pork.....and 1-order of wings. The brisket and pork was on the dry side on its own, dip them in any sauce and mmmmmmmm......it's all good Too much food for two and we ate it all! Very good BBQ and the 4 sauces were Great- Vinegar, Mustard, Mild and Hot. The ribs are all worth it for the crowd and that it's not fine dining. I'd recommend this to anyone - must when you stop at Memphis that's a 5 thumbs up from me!! read more

Central BBQ - So good, worth the wait, worth the crowd - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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In my opinion, this is the best BBQ place around. The food is consistently great, the service is good, the beer is cold, and the atmosphere is as it should be in a BBQ joint. I like the location on Central Ave. the best, but all are good. read more

Poor quality control! Picked up 2 slabs of ribs tonight which turned out to be burned. Totally inedible. I called and they did offer to replace them if I returned to the restaurant. But I live in GERMANTOWN! My starving crew precluded driving back to midtown. So I drove over to Corkys instead. To be fair, I have dined here before and had really good ribs. It is somewhat disturbing though that an employee would pick up obviously burned ribs and think it acceptable to wrap them up for an unsuspecting customer. So if doing takeout, you might want to open your package before you leave the restaurant to be sure the product is acceptable. I won't be doing this though. This is Memphis and there are too many good barbecue joints around. read more

Central BBQ - Mouth watering? - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Best. Ribs. In. All. Of. Memphis. Best Ribs in All of Memphis I say!! These perfectly smoked, delectably sauced, and fall-of-the-bone-tender ribs were the highlight of my Memphis Rib Search. I'd wait in line for hours to get another platter of these babies. The smell draws you in, and by the time you're eating - your mouth is watering and so grateful for the joy of their food. Brisket is decent, pulled pork is also quite good. But the ribs.... I just can't say enough about them. YUM. read more

On a scale from 1-10 I would rate this bbq joint a 7. I am from Atlanta and visited central bbq while visiting for Memphis comedy fest. Bbq was pretty good, I had the pulled pork and the bbq sauce was such a delicious combination of spices. The sides could have used some work though .. I had the Mac n cheese and turnip greens and I would not suggest either. But keep in mind I have high standards being from Atl and knowing how soul food is supposed to taste. They have a crazy long line so we ordered at the to go window and drank some local brews while we waited. I loved that! The food came out in 10-15 minutes just as we were finishing up with our beer. I could tell that this place was very popular and I loved the ambiance. read more

Amazing. Nothing to say that hasn't already been said! Nachos were soooo delicious! Ribs were fall off the bone but not soft or mushy. Great crust on the ribs. read more

Central BBQ - 1/2 slab Ribs, slaw, chips - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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In general, not what it use to be or not what I remember. However, the ribs (dry option) are as good as you can get! The pulled pork and brisket leave a lot to be desired - especially the brisket (tough, thin, not much flavor). BBQ sauce is excellent. Don't waste money on deserts - not very good. read more

Food Network has spotlighted Central BBQ a few times, and for good reason. This is a local favorite! This location (their original) is not in the tourist district... Unless you stumble upon it while parking your car for a Tiger's Football game, word of mouth is probably how you learn of this treasure. There's usually a line (especially at lunch and dinner time), but it's worth the wait. It may lack a bit for atmosphere, but their BBQ is very tasty. Their specialty is dry ribs, and pulled pork. Don't fear, wet rib lovers... they have a spicy and a mild sauce if that's how you like it. I prefer dry ribs, as I like the rib to be the focus. Their side dishes are also very good. I'm fond of their homemade potato chips and mac 'n cheese with my ribs. After you order your food, find a table and a server will bring your order out to you. You get your drinks (soda, tea, water) on your own, and beer from the beer counter. During the warmer months they'll often have a band on the patio outside. I've tried several Memphis rib joints, but always come back to Central BBQ! read more

This is my favorite casual dining BBQ restaurant in Memphis. Nothing fancy, but great food and good, friendly service. The ribs are smoky to the bone, tender inside and chewy outside. I like th wet (sauced), but they are also good dry (seasoning rub). The ribs for 2 is a gear deal for $20.99 you get a generous slab of ribs & 4 sides. I like the baked beans & potato salad, my husband likes the homemade potato chips and mac 'n cheese. They have a good cold beer to accompany your BBQ and a "sauce" bar with 4 varieties. The pulled pork BBQ is outstanding, smoky, with nice chunks of that crusty outside of the butt. The outside patio is nice when the weather is good. read more

The ribs are super good. the pulled pork was a little less than "good", tho' certainly edible, it was not great. (I've had better in Boston and Provincetown, beleive it or not) The general chaotic scene and long lines aren't charming or fun. Just annoying. It was just "OK" read more

Uh, kind of a let down. Especially after going to Corky's. It's seems like a great place - lots of locals. I just didn't think the BBQ was 5-star. read more

The food was very good. Coming from the north, it's nothing like some good dry rub grilling. Smoked chicken breast was perfectly cooked. The dry ruby ribs was worth the drive.....I wasn't very impressed with the brisket. I have had better. Overall the experience was wonderful! read more

Central BBQ - Very good food... - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

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Central BBQ is my go-to when I'm back home in Memphis. As with any Memphis BBQ spot - go for the ribs, pulled pork, (and if you really want to be like a local) the BBQ nachos! Not much is better than a plate of BBQ and a cold local draft beer! Even though there is often a line out the door, Central BBQ is worth the wait! The Cooper-Young location is my favorite, but that's probably just because it's one of my favorite areas in memphis & they have a good patio! Although I've eaten at Central BBQ countless times, I couldn't resist reviewing Central BBQ after an interaction with the owner at the Atlanta Food & Wine Festival. I volunteered to help out during the festival, and about halfway through day two, the owner of Central brought a huge pan of delicious ribs over to all the volunteers. He personally thanked everyone for helping out & offered up some awesome ribs! Can we talk about southern hospitality?!? Love it! read more

Best. Chicken. Wings. In. The. City.

This is a destination eatery. Fabulous atmosphere, friendly staff, deliciousness on a plate. I had the pulled pork plate with homemade chips and BBQ beans. Nice smoke, medium heat, great flavor. This place is worth a drive from the interstate if you're passing by Memphis! read more

Central BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Most excellent BBQ ribs and pulled pork. The brisket sandwich is also very good. The side items are excellent. I highly recommend them at any time. read more

Good atmosphere, solid bbq joint. I have been to both locations, and although I prefer the newer of the two - this one has a great outdoor tent. Had Brisket and Turkey, would suggest both smothered in their Hot BBQ sauce w/ a side of slaw and green beans. I will be back! read more

I walked into this place with extremely high expectations. The reviews read well, as well as being featured on the TV lead me to believe that this was the best Memphis' legendary BBQ had to offer. Well, if it is, Memphis BBQ is overrated. I had a full rack, half dry, half wet. Dry was a mistake. The meat came off the bone easily, but there was way too much char. It needed sauce. The prices were alright. The food was alright. A-OK about sums it up. Definitely not the best though. read more

Central BBQ - Note the pigs flying towards better BBQ places - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

This BBQ is totally uninspired... and some stuff is just wrong. The pulled pork was dry and mediocre but the sides really missed the mark. The mac and cheese is literally the same thing that you get at KFC or Popeye's--it tastes like it came straight from a can. The slaw was also bland. I hold BBQ restaurants to a higher standard and Central BBQ didn't cut it! read more

Before I got to Memphis I was looking on-line for the best places to go in the city and everything kept pointing me towards BBQ so I looked for the place with the best reviews so that's how I ended up in here. The sauce was delicious, the brisket was decent, the turkey was probably the best ever, and the ribs where good but nothing out of this world. I was expecting the meat to fall of the bones and to have an amazing flavor but they didn't. I am not saying the were not good or tender but they just were not up to my expectations. I have to confess that I did eat everything including the mac and cheese, that wasn't bad at all, and the BBQ beans that very good. The best thing about this place I would have to say was the customer service. They were very friendly and quick. Overall not a bad place to get some honest and decently priced BBQ. I wish I had more time to try other sites in the city but maybe next time.... read more

Central BBQ - Ribs, beef and turkey brisket, Mac and cheese, and bbq beans - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Decent Memphis BBQ. Awesome atmosphere. What more can you ask for? Maybe some more seating and cleaner floors, but come on, that's the experience, right? Phew, so I got the pork plate with greens and pork rinds. AMAZING. COMBINATION. Whatever sauce they used was pure perfection. It was a great blend of sweet and spicy! It totaled to about $11, which was a bit overpriced, but I definitely enjoyed my time. The atmosphere is very casual and down-to-earth, so get comfortable with your neighbors! They'll have a blast! I'm surprised at how small the dining areas were for how popular the place is... But I kind of like it that way. Keeping it local, but also appealing to tourists, now that's a solid business. They also have quirky shirts... Wish I had gotten one. I wonder what my mom would have thought... read more

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Central bbq is a must a slab of ribs and fries wings greens potato salad everything was delicious!

First trip to Memphis and we got hungry after visiting Graceland. Well, it seemed like BBQ was in order so we thought Central BBQ might just have some. We made a good choice. And so did a lot of other people. It was a hopping place. We managed to get a table and our food was delicious. We both got ribs and I got potato salad and potato chips and they were the best I've ever had. The portion was ample and I left a happy and full patron. I would heartily recommend Central BBQ to anyone in the neighborhood. It was yummy. read more

As good as it gets. The seating area is tight but you'll have your food long before it bothers you. A top-notch beer selection, including some great local choices. Everything is good but I encourage you to go with the ribs, and don't short change yourself by ordering a half-rack. The mac-n-cheese is better than your Grannies and you must try the "Nan Pudding". You can't go wrong with anything here. $130.00 dinner for 4 read more

Central BBQ - Nice rack..... - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

Fantastic pulled pork that was beyond moist!!! BBQ sauce is kept in a warmer so it doesn't cool the meat temperature. Great baked beans with a little kick! read more

Central BBQ - Pulled pork! - Barbeque Near Me - Memphis, Tennessee

When our family needs to find happiness, we go to Central. When we arrived in Memphis to house shop, this was the first place we ate at. Two years later, it is still our favorite Memphis restaurant - bbq or otherwise. BBQ nachos - a half order is plenty for one person. Same with wings. Both are so good. While we struggle to order because we have to decide, we welcome the opportunity to struggle between the smoked turkey (which our family LOVES) and the more traditional meat choices. The staff is so friendly and it feels like they really enjoy their jobs. We love standing in the line and talking with staff in the parking lot. Just good people and good food. read more