Central BBQ

Central BBQ is a renowned barbecue restaurant chain based in Memphis, Tennessee, celebrated for its authentic Memphis-style barbecue. Established in 2002, the restaurant has grown to include multiple locations, each offering a unique dining experience that reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region.

At the heart of Central BBQ's offerings is its slow-smoked meats, meticulously prepared using a blend of hickory and pecan woods. The menu features a variety of smoked meats, including ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, chicken, turkey, sausage, and bologna.

Each meat is rubbed with a secret combination of dry spices and marinated for 24 hours before being smoked low and slow, ensuring a tender and flavorful result. Notably, no sauce is introduced into the pit during the smoking process, allowing the natural flavors to shine.

Central BBQ's menu extends beyond smoked meats to include a range of appetizers, sides, and desserts. Signature items such as the BBQ Nachos, featuring marinated slow-smoked pulled pork or chicken on a bed of tortilla chips topped with BBQ sauce, cheese sauce, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and a light dusting of BBQ Shake, have garnered widespread acclaim.

The restaurant also offers smoked hot wings available in various flavors, including Wet, Naked, Jerked, Dry Spice, Honey Gold, and Sweet Heat. For those seeking lighter options, salads and vegetarian choices are available, ensuring a diverse selection to cater to all preferences.

In addition to its dine-in services, Central BBQ provides catering options suitable for corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions.

The restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor has earned it numerous accolades, including being voted "#1 BBQ in Memphis from 2006 to 2012" by the Memphis Flyer.

Locations

Central BBQ operates several locations across Memphis and the surrounding areas, each offering a unique ambiance that reflects the local culture. These include:

• Memphis, TN, USA – The Midtown location is situated in the vibrant Cooper-Young neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of shops, bars, and restaurants, embodying the creative spirit of the area.
• Downtown Memphis – Located just behind the National Civil Rights Museum, this site provides a dining experience blending barbecue classics with comforting Southern staples.
• Summer Avenue – A popular spot contributing to the restaurant’s widespread popularity.
• Poplar Avenue – Another key location serving Central BBQ’s signature dishes.
• Southaven, TN, USA – Extending the restaurant's presence beyond Memphis to serve a broader customer base.

Community and Reputation

Central BBQ's dedication to quality, authenticity, and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of Memphis's culinary scene, offering both locals and visitors a genuine taste of Southern barbecue tradition.