Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse — Restaurant in Nashville-Davidson

In 1940, Eddie and Mildred McFarland ran a Pie Wagon known as Tatsy-Eat-Shop in downtown Nashville on 9th Avenue. In those days, a Pie Wagon only accommodated about 20 patrons and had only counter service. Mr. & Mrs. McFarland had a strong following and were successful because they were known for their southern style home cooking. Everything was made from scratch.

In 1958, Mr. McFarland got word that the Bar-B-Cutie on Murfreesboro Road was for sale. He was very familiar with Bar-B-Cutie and was aware that it had started in 1950 serving the best Hickory Smoked Barbecue in town. So he purchased Bar-B-Cutie. At that time, Bar-B-Cutie was predominantly a Car Hop business and had only four inside, dining tables. Mr. McFarland expanded the existing “short order menu” by adding his fresh “made from scratch” southern vegetables.

Business quickly grew, and he soon had to build on to the inside dining area to accommodate more guests. The McFarland’s took great pride in Bar-B-Cutie and worked very hard to make sure that their food and service were the best in town.

Bar-B-Cutie became a local hang-out. People all over Nashville enjoyed taking part in the “Bar-B-Cutie experience”; the great southern food, the Cutie Car Hops dressed in short, red skirts and white tops, and the unique family atmosphere that made one always feel welcome. In 1972, Eddie & Mildred McFarland moved the Bar-B-Cutie to Nolensville Road in South Nashville to a new building that would seat in excess of 300 people.

In 1978, Eddie & Mildred retired, and their son Ronnie opened the first Bar-B-Cutie Drive-Thru Window on the same parking lot as the Bar-B-Cutie Restaurant. As times changed and people began getting busier, the Drive-Thru at Bar-B-Cutie became more and more popular… so popular that people would come and eat sitting on crates in the back room of the restaurant. The larger restaurant was eventually sold in favor of the Drive-Thru. A Dining Room addition to the Drive-Thru was soon built.

NOW…people all over are enjoying those same, home-cooked recipes with that sweet, southern hospitality at...

I've made Bar-B-Cutie my go-to spot for BBQ, and I can say it has never disappointed! From the pulled pork to the smoked turkey, every meal has been a symphony of flavors. I had my reservations at first, especially after hearing some mixed reviews about their brisket, but their food and service completely won me over.

Firstly, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, complete with country decor and license plates adorning the walls. It's a place where you instantly feel at home. The staff are exceptionally friendly and attentive, something that is evident across various reviews. I've tried their dine-in and take-out services and can vouch for both.

I was particularly blown away by their cornbread, served pancake-style, a delightful twist on the usual. It had the perfect consistency and taste, so different yet so right! The full rack of ribs is an absolute must-try—whether you prefer dry rub or wet, they nail it each time.

While I've heard some patrons find the BBQ sauce or brisket a bit hit or miss, I can only speak from my experience where everything was seasoned to perfection. In particular, their brisket and pulled chicken have been tender, juicy, and full of smoky goodness. Don't even get me started on their sides—especially the baked beans and mashed potatoes—they complement the meats perfectly. What really makes Bar-B-Cutie stand out for me is their commitment to quality and customer service. You can see it in the owner's prompt and caring responses to customer reviews, and it reflects well on their establishment that's been around since the 1950s. Prices are reasonable, especially considering the portion sizes and the quality of food.

If you're flying out of Nashville or even driving in from a neighboring area like Mount Juliet, don't miss out on this gem. Bar-B-Cutie offers a dining experience that truly encapsulates Southern BBQ at its finest. With almost three-quarters of a century in the business, they've clearly stood the test of time, and it's easy to see why.

Highly recommended for anyone who loves good BBQ and an even better...

I was flying out of Nashville Airport and was looking for a good place to eat dinner. I came across Bar-B-Cutie on a Google search of restaurants near BNA. The reviews looked good and the photos too, so off I went. Bar-B-Cuties has been around since the 1950s and has multiple locations in Tennessee, Georgia and Texas. They specialize in Pit-Style barbecue. The restaurants are decorated with a country vibe with license plates on the walls and photos of days past. They serve up many many favourites like Smoked Chicken, Pulled Pork, Brisket, Ribs, Links etc. On this visit, I tried a two-Meat Plate with Smoked Turkey and Brisket, served with Baked beans, Mashed Potatoes and a side of gravy. The food was delicious and well prepared. My Turkey was lean and moist, and the brisket was fall-off-the-bone tender as well. The service was really great as I was served by a long-time employee, who had a great sense of humour and was very attentive. I've had a lot of barbecues over the years some memorable and some I would not return to. Bar-B-Cuties has been around for a long time, and their quality, consistency and reasonable pricing keep people coming. There was a long lineup for take-out, and almost all the seats were full, so you know it's a popular spot for Barbecue in the area. Next time you are flying out of Nashville airport and looking for a good Barbecue joint, give...