Shotgun Willie's BBQ Madison Review - Madison - Nashville - The Infatuation
"Shotgun Willie’s in Madison is a shrine to a few things that make Texas great: college football, Willie Nelson, and amazing barbecue. But to get to that barbecue, you’ll have to contend with another Texas barbecue tradition—a line, especially on weekends. And that’s OK, because this is some of the best smoked meat in Middle Tennessee. Highlights include devastatingly tender American wagyu brisket, juicy Texas hill country sausage, and the frequently sold-out salt and pepper ribs—a masterful rendition of perfectly seasoned slabs. And no tray is complete without flavor-packed sides like the creamy dill potato salad, tangy baked beans, and crumbly jalapeño cornbread. photo credit: Casey Irwin photo credit: Casey Irwin photo credit: Casey Irwin photo credit: Casey Irwin They recently moved to a bigger location in Madison that’s casual, airy, and decorated with Lone Star state memorabilia that teeters on the edge of “way too much.” We’re talking Willie posters, Texas license plates, college pennants, and a coin-operated mechanical bull you can ride for a quarter. Eat inside at one of the tables or head out to the patio when it isn’t too cold or hotter than the devil’s backside on a Texas summer day. Food Rundown photo credit: Casey Irwin Salt & Pepper Ribs The KISS principle (keep it simple, stupid) is at work here, and there’s a reason for that—these ribs don’t need much more than some salt and pepper to really savor the smokey flavor. The meat is tender, but not too soft, and has the ideal amount of crust. photo credit: Casey Irwin Black Hawk Farms American Wagyu Brisket This is brisket just like Texas intended—tender, juicy, and with a perfectly subtle fatty texture that coats the mouth on impact. photo credit: Casey Irwin Dill Potato Salad Dill is a SWH, or a secret weapon herb, that should be deployed sparingly, and Shotgun Willie’s potato salad is one of the best use cases. Expect thick hunks of potatoes dressed in a creamy sauce that’s punctuated by the ever-so-subtle pucker of dill. You should also expect to like it. A lot. photo credit: Casey Irwin 4 Baked Beans This delightful little cup of fiber isn’t composed of just one type of bean—you get a whole squad that includes black, kidney, and great northern beans mingling together in a tangy, thickened stew. Throw that into your order and call it a day." - Jackie Gutierrez-Jones
