Best BBQ in Knoxville (2025)

Born from a neighborhood cookout, this longtime favorite pairs East Tennessee-style smoke with competition chops—think ribs, pulled pork, and Burnie Mac. Endorsed by Southern Living and even featured on national TV for its ‘cue. ([southernliving.com](https://www.southernliving.com/knoxville-tennessee-local-guide-7113533?utm_source=openai), [wbir.com](https://www.wbir.com/article/life/food/knoxville-bbq-restaurant-to-be-featured-on-food-paradise-a-national-tv-show/51-199bc036-c476-461f-8701-221716f6be9b?utm_source=openai), [deadendbbq.com](https://www.deadendbbq.com/about/?utm_source=openai))

The current home base for Knoxville’s Sweet P’s legacy serves brisket, pulled pork, and a full bar, plus weekend brunch. Note: the Downtown Dive closed June 15, 2025; Uptown Corner remains open and active. ([sweetpbbq.com](https://www.sweetpbbq.com/uptown-corner/?utm_source=openai), [insideofknoxville.com](https://insideofknoxville.com/2025/05/sweet-ps-downtown-dive-to-close/?utm_source=openai))

A fresh downtown arrival marrying smokehouse standards with chefly touches—sticky ribs, pastrami on rye, and a solid drink list. Highlighted by local editors and supported by the downtown alliance. ([insideofknoxville.com](https://insideofknoxville.com/2024/02/humble-hog-is-open-heres-a-look/?utm_source=openai), [downtownknoxville.org](https://www.downtownknoxville.org/humble-hog/?utm_source=openai))

Carryout-only and proudly old-school, M&M turns out smoky pulled pork, ribs, and brisket with house sauces and generous plates. Celebrated by Roadfood and loved by locals for value and flavor. ([roadfood.com](https://roadfood.com/restaurants/mm-catering/?utm_source=openai), [wanderlog.com](https://wanderlog.com/place/details/2432716/mm-barbeque-catering-and-takeout?utm_source=openai))

South Knox tradition in a vintage service-station setting—meaty ribs, smoked bologna, hush puppies, and friendly counter service. Consistently well-reviewed with steady hours posted for planning. ([restaurantji.com](https://www.restaurantji.com/tn/knoxville/love-that-bbq-/?utm_source=openai), [chamberofcommerce.com](https://www.chamberofcommerce.com/business-directory/tennessee/knoxville/miscellaneous/2013993952-love-that-bbq?utm_source=openai))

West-side counter spot known for brisket, smoked bologna, and meatloaf, with generous platters and a laid-back vibe. Recognized among local picks and running late hours on weekends. ([restaurantji.com](https://www.restaurantji.com/tn/knoxville/smash-mouth-bbq-/?utm_source=openai), [knoxville.communityvotes.com](https://knoxville.communityvotes.com/2024/02/food-and-drink/bbq?utm_source=openai))

Chef Marcus Stokely—alum of top Southern kitchens—applies fine-dining technique to Texas-brisket meets Southern traditions. Follow for pop-ups; locals rate it among Knoxville’s best, and it’s cited in recent community awards. ([wellsstationbbq.com](https://www.wellsstationbbq.com/about/?utm_source=openai), [knoxville.communityvotes.com](https://knoxville.communityvotes.com/2024/02/food-and-drink/bbq?utm_source=openai))