Central BBQ - Downtown — Restaurant in Memphis

We went to the original Central BBQ downtown location just a few blocks south of Beale Street on E. Butler, and literally right across the street from the Lorraine Motel, sadly made famous on April 4, 1968 as the site where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. I couldn’t choose between dry and wet ribs, so I ordered half-and-half of the world-famous Memphis ribs. Both the dry-rub and the wet ribs were exceptional. All their smoked meat undergoes a beautiful smoke bath of both hickory and pecan, two of my favorite smoking woods. And the dry rub they use is phenomenal. I actually took the liberty of turning part of my wet-rub ribs into “muddy ribs”, much like what I have enjoyed at Corky’s. Central BBQ came from the roots of competition barbecue – starting in the 1980s at the world famous Memphis in May barbecue competition – so it was no surprise that their ribs were outstanding — perfectly smoked with well-rendered fat, a fantastic chewy bark and great smoky flavor. Available to all of their smoked meat is a variety of different barbecue sauces – their original mild sauce, plus a hot version, a South Carolina-inspired mustard sauce, and an eastern Carolina-style vinegar-based sauce. I am a big sauce fan – and enjoyed all four. All of these complemented the smoked meats very well. That brings me to the other smoked meats we tried. My wife had the pulled pork, which was very good. It was served without any sauce at all. The unsauced flavor was good. But of course it was improved by the variety of sauces. And my daughter, being the true Texan that she is, ordered brisket. It was a fine example of Memphis lean brisket – but it was not impressive for us Texans. So I’ll stick with pork in Memphis. The sides were a mixed bag. I had an order of pork skins, which were absolutely exceptional – maybe the best I’ve ever had, as well as potato salad – which was nothing to write home about. My wife tried the coleslaw and greens. Neither was outstanding or memorable. And my daughter got the mac-n-cheese and french fries. Both were serviceable, but not memorable. The feel at Central BBQ has a great vibe, very fun and lively – there was a great blues band playing in the attached building. There is plenty of space for the nonstop line of patrons. And there is a wide variety of souvenirs to go – t-shirts, pre-packaged dry rubs, barbecue sauces, etc. I’d go back to Central BBQ again and again. But I’ll always focus on the ribs and probably just...

Central BBQ in downtown Memphis is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city's barbecue scene. Known for its casual atmosphere and delicious smoked meats, Central BBQ delivers a quintessential Memphis experience that's hard to forget.

Upon entering, you're greeted by the aroma of hickory-smoked goodness wafting through the air. The décor is rustic and laid-back, with a mix of communal and individual seating, making it an ideal spot whether you're dining solo, with friends, or family. The staff are welcoming and efficient, keeping the line moving swiftly even during peak times.

I opted for the smoked turkey sandwich, a choice that did not disappoint. The turkey was tender and flavorful, with a perfect balance of smoke that didn't overpower the natural taste of the meat. It was served on a soft bun with a light touch of their house-made barbecue sauce, which added just the right amount of tangy sweetness without overwhelming the sandwich. The portion size was generous, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty meal.

To complement the sandwich, I chose a side of Mac n Cheese. This creamy dish was everything you'd expect from a Southern barbecue joint—rich, cheesy, and comforting. The pasta was cooked to perfection, and the cheese sauce had a great balance of sharpness and creaminess, with a crispy top layer that added a delightful texture.

For dessert, I had the Banana Pudding, which was the ideal way to round off the meal. The pudding was smooth and silky, with chunks of fresh banana and a topping of whipped cream and vanilla wafers. It had that homemade quality that made it feel like a family recipe, which is a huge plus in my book.

An added bonus at Central BBQ is their reusable cup, which makes for a great souvenir. It's a fun and practical way to remember your visit, and you can use it on future trips to Central BBQ for discounted refills.

Overall, Central BBQ in downtown Memphis is a fantastic choice for anyone craving authentic barbecue. The combination of expertly smoked meats, tasty sides, and welcoming atmosphere make it a standout spot. Whether you're a local or just passing through, it's a place...

Central BBQ in Memphis, TN, is an absolute gem for anyone craving authentic, mouthwatering barbecue. I recently had the pleasure of dining there, and I can confidently say that it exceeded all of my expectations.

The moment you step through the doors, you're greeted by the irresistible aroma of smoked meats wafting through the air, setting the stage for a culinary experience like no other. I wasted no time in diving into their famed offerings, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed.

The pork ribs, pulled pork, and chicken wings were nothing short of spectacular. Each bite was bursting with flavor, perfectly seasoned and infused with just the right amount of smokiness. What truly impressed me was the tenderness and juiciness of the meats – a testament to the skill and dedication of Central BBQ's pitmasters.

Whether you're a die-hard barbecue aficionado or simply someone who appreciates good food, Central BBQ is a must-visit destination in the Memphis area. The quality of their dishes is unmatched, and I have no doubt that you'll be left craving more long after you've cleaned your plate.

One of the best parts about dining at Central BBQ is its convenient location, making it the perfect pit stop before or after exploring the vibrant city of Memphis. In fact, I would highly recommend pairing your meal with a visit to the nearby National Civil Rights Museum – not only to walk off the delicious food but also to enrich your experience with a dose of history and reflection.

In summary, Central BBQ is a culinary treasure that should not be missed. With its unforgettable flavors, warm atmosphere, and unbeatable hospitality, it's no wonder why it's a beloved institution in the Memphis community. So, do yourself a favor and add Central BBQ to the top of your list – your taste buds...