Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint — Restaurant in Nashville-Davidson

As a born-and-bred Southerner now calling Texas home, my palate has a deep appreciation for the diverse tapestry that makes up American barbecue. Each region brings its own unique flavor profile and techniques to the pit, and I always approach a new BBQ experience with an open mind and a hungry stomach. My recent visit to Martin's BBQ in Nashville certainly delivered on the experience, though perhaps not in the way I initially anticipated.

Stepping into Martin's, the atmosphere immediately struck me. The vibe was undeniably lively and welcoming, buzzing with the happy chatter of fellow BBQ enthusiasts. The service was also a standout – the team was attentive, friendly, and genuinely seemed to care about ensuring everyone had a great time. This aspect of my visit was a definite win.

Now, let's talk about the food. I, of course, had to sample the ribs, a staple in any BBQ joint. While the tenderness was undeniable – they truly did fall off the bone with the slightest touch – the overall flavor profile didn't quite overwhelm me. They were good, certainly, but perhaps lacked that certain oomph I was expecting.

However, where Martin's truly shone, and where they absolutely stole the show for me, were their smoked chicken wings. Oh. My. Goodness. These wings were an absolute revelation. Perfectly smoked, with a depth of flavor that lingered long after the last bite, they were simply exceptional. They took the prize, hands down.

To round out the meal, I also indulged in their baked mac and cheese, which was a comforting and satisfying side. Creamy, cheesy, and exactly what you crave alongside smoky barbecue.

So, while the ribs didn't quite capture my heart on this visit, the incredible smoked chicken wings and the delightful baked mac and cheese certainly did. And let's not forget the fantastic vibe and the truly attentive service, which elevated the entire experience.

Will I go back to Martin's BBQ? Absolutely. Next time, though, I'll be building my meal around another order (or perhaps two!) of those signature smoked wings, and I'm eager to explore other items on their menu to find a main dish that complements them perfectly. Martin's has definitely earned a spot on my Nashville foodie map, even if it's the wings...

Update 8/29/25 Gave them another shot. Whole hog plate had good ribs and comes with brisket so that solves the a la carte meat thing. Ribs were pretty good, had good texture and flavor. It’s a lot of food and comes with 2 sides. Hush puppies are still the best.

Bbq sauce is still vinegar, but I liked it more this time. Maybe my horizons have expanded, or my tastes have evolved. Would still be nice if there was a sweet sauce available.

Actually really enjoyed the nachos. It did come cold, but I didn’t hate it. The slaw is great. Might ask for more jalapeños next time, but would order them again.

They have plenty of beers on top, open seating, still order at the register, paper towel rolls on the table. Super casual, decent bbq, easy to get to. Guess I’ll be back.

Previously:

Meh. It’s weird that they don’t have a 2 meat or a 3 meat plate on the menu like every other bbq joint in existence, so if you want to try different meats you have to ask to have them added a la carte. Order at a window and find a place to sit. Does have a bar but they don’t like to take food orders.

Sausage was wet greasy, consistency was weird, flavor was alright. Wouldn’t order again.

Brisket tacos were ok, but the tortillas were soggy by the time they got to me. Probably better off just getting brisket next time. The brisket itself wasn’t bad, but it didn’t blow me away either.

Chili is garbage. More beans than meat, underwhelmed by the flavor.

Beans are solid, mac and cheese is solid.

Hush puppies are probably the best I’ve ever had which surprised me. Perfectly fried, little bits of veggies inside, and good flavor.

Pecan pie was pretty good but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it.

All their sauce on the tables is vinegar based.

Place didn’t do it for me. I thought it was overpriced for mediocre barbecue. I’d look around before...

If you think you can look like a family reunion inside a restaurant, serve drinks, and smell like a backyard barbecue all at once — then you’re picturing Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint. I didn’t know what to expect walking in, but I’d been told by a few locals that this was the spot to try. They weren’t wrong. The food? Solid. So good it overshadowed the rest. But first, let me set the scene.

The ordering process felt like a cookout line — the kind where you’re standing around with your plate empty, trying not to stare too hard at someone else's ribs. The line was long. Menus were given to us to hold in hand while in line. Folks were people-watching just to pass the time. By the time I got to the front, I didn’t hold back. I looked the man in the eyes and said, “Give me all your meat.” Like I was robbing the place. I wasn’t playing. I wanted the full Tennessee spread — pulled pork, brisket, ribs, smoked sausage, and all the sides that could fit on the tray. Over a hundred dollars later, I was ready to feast.

But then my wife tapped me and said she’d lost her appetite. I didn’t understand why until I sat down and realized… it wasn’t just us enjoying this barbecue. The flies came to the cookout too. This open-air setup, while vibey and on-theme with the whole “family reunion energy,” invited the insect guests to hover, land, and lurk like they had RSVP’d. I was out there swatting more than I was slicing, and that’s when I knew the food was too good — even the flies wanted in.

And just when I thought I was done… I walked out of the open area and noticed the lower level — indoors, AC on, behind closed glass doors. That’s where the smart folks were. Sitting cool, eating clean, and fly-free. That’s when the lightbulb went off: I’ll be back. And next time, I’m bringing more people to rob y’all of all your meat and...