Corky's Ribs & BBQ

Barbecue restaurant · Brookfield

Corky's Ribs & BBQ

Barbecue restaurant · Brookfield

1

5259 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119

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Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null
Corky's Ribs & BBQ by null

Highlights

Hickory-smoked ribs, comfort sides, folksy atmosphere  

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5259 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119 Get directions

corkysbbq.com

$10–20 · Menu

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5259 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38119 Get directions

+1 901 685 9744
corkysbbq.com
CorkysPoplar

$10–20 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 13, 2025

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Tennessee Chain Will Try to Make Memphis-Style Barbecue a Thing in Houston - Eater Houston

"Tennessee-based chain Corky’s BBQ is plotting an expansion into Texas, and Houston is set to get the first of many forthcoming locations. The family-owned Memphis chain has enlisted a franchisee to bring Corky’s BBQ to “up to three” locations in Houston this year, reports the Memphis Daily News, and there could eventually be more outposts. The chain was founded in 1984 in Memphis, and has since expanded to multiple locations in Tennessee and Arkansas while racking up plenty of accolades in its home city. In addition to Houston, Corky’s is also planning to make a push into Dallas-Fort Worth. For the uninitiated, Memphis-style barbecue differs from Texas-style primarily in protein choice — pork instead of beef. Corky’s smokes its meats over hickory and charcoal, according to the restaurant’s website. Brisket is on the menu, but the real focus is on ribs and pulled pork, which is piled onto nachos and sandwiches, even served alongside a helping of Corky’s spaghetti. If pairing pork and spaghetti seems like a bizarre combination, that’s because it is. In Houston, Corky’s BBQ will have to battle it out with the growing bounty of Texas-born barbecue restaurants when the chain’s makes its debut later this year. The first location is expected to arrive before September." - Amy McCarthy

https://houston.eater.com/2018/2/14/17010818/corkys-bbq-expanding-houston
View Postcard for Corky's Ribs & BBQ

Lyle Oberkreser

Google
We had a most outstanding time at Corky's. The food was delicious and our server was attentive and fun. It was not busy when we arrived, but the line was out the door when we left. Definitely some of the best BBQ I have had. I had the ribs, half and half, while my vegetarian wife was happy with the onion rings and her order of a baked potato, which was gigantic. Overall an excellent experience and I am looking forward to my next visit.

Otto Stokes

Google
Reasonable parking and the wait wasn't too bad considering we had a large party. Waiter was awesome, he had a great smile and attitude, just what we needed after a long day of driving. The food was good. The atmosphere was great. The burnt ends with cheesy grits was good. Ribs with sausage mac n cheese and coleslaw as well. The rolls are awesome. The banana pudding was delicious.

Mariah

Google
Our waitress was super super sweet. This was our first time visiting and it was such a good experience. Everything was worth the price and delicious. I wish I could have fully finish, Everything was so filling. 10/10 recommend

Norman Wells, Jr.

Google
I had the pulled pork and spaghetti. Both were really great, but I loved the slaw and beans. However, I would be amiss if I did mention the peach cobbler. The cobbler was awesome! Cooked perfectly, the cake was well seasoned, and the ice cream with it was delicious. Highly recommended.

Sing Life with Ashley Rayder

Google
Corky's is a definitely a MUST when you plan a trip out to Memphis, TN! It's a guarantee that anything you choose won't disappoint. From the mouth watering Cajun shrimp and pulled pork (pulled or ends), you will be counting down the days until your next visit. Joshua was attentive to my every need, bringing wet wipes without being asked. For a woman out on a date that was much appreciated. And Brenda's upbeat personality and easy going simple made you feel like you were with family. You should be sure to make this a destination stop if your planning a trip to Memphis!

Marcus French

Google
Coming through on our way back to Texas. Thought that we would try Memphis BBQ to see what the hype was about. The ribs, burger, cajun shrimp and even the spaghetti were great. Still prefer my Texas Brisket, but this place definitely knows their way around a rack of ribs. I've eaten at restaurants all over the country and have never had service as stellar as this place. Never once saw anyone with an attitude. They all seemed to actually like/love working there. The service alone is worth a return.

Meghan Ward

Google
Such amazing food and service! From appetizer to dessert Mr. Tony Brown was so kind and helpful and our food that came out fresh and hot & the sweet tea was the best we’ve had a restaurant in ages. We waddled out happy and full! Thankful for such a great and tasty experience.

Nancy Wells

Google
We came to Corky's Ribs and BBQ as a pit stop for lunch and we loved it! The brisket queso was outstanding! Two of my favorite things put together so beautifully. The pork, coleslaw, beans, and pecan pie was wonderful! The staff was attentive and ambiance definitely made me feel like I was at a local shop. I loved it!

Amber M.

Yelp
Food was amazing, but Haywood's service was outstanding! Our ribs, shrimp and grits were delicious.
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David H.

Yelp
Just arrived in Memphis and found this place with good reviews, so we decided to try it. We were not disappointed. I had the Pulled pork dinner & wife had the catfish dinner. The pork was tender and the catfish was seasoned will. For dessert we had the banana pudding. YUMMY The lady at the bar was very welcoming. (Annita) Nice music playing that was not to loud. Give this place a try, you won't be disappointed.
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Tabitha C.

Yelp
The food was horrible ! Very disappointing as it has such good reviews . The fries were slightly hard and bland. The Mac and cheese was rejected by our Mac and cheese loving daughter . The brisket was perhaps the worst brisket I have ever tasted . We just threw it away. It was tasteless and mushy. Ribs were the best thing and they weren't amazing. Green beans - Very disappointing.
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Sunny W.

Yelp
We were excited to try Memphis BBQ. It tasted okay but wasn't anything special, it was just average. Hubby ordered Rib/Sausage dinner ($25) with potato salad ($0.75) and baked bean. I ordered half Chicken dinner ($12.99) with extra pork ($4.49), corn and baked beans, peach cobbler ($4.99). I liked the baked beans which had a perfect blend of sweet and a hint of spicy. The chicken was moist, but lacked good seasoning. I don't know if it's because restaurants are trying to accommodate special dietary needs, e.g. low sodium diet. Corn was good and my husband liked the potato salad. He thought the ribs were a little dry.
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Larry L.

Yelp
Tried out this drive-thru Memphis BBQ spot on a Sunday. I'm normally a brisket guy (ATX), but am certainly open-minded. There were a few other highly rated BBQ places closed that day. Tried 1/3 Slab of Pork Ribs (Wet rub) and another 1/3 Slab (Dry Rub). Verdict: Dry Rub was really good and well-Salted. Wet rub's Barbecue sauce had great flavor, was okay. Sides were good, not sure about the potatoes ( a bit too much mayo or sour cream for my taste). Green potatoes were good, hush puppies were ok, their spaghetti with meat sauce was tasty. No regrets on trying Corky's, would recommend dry rub Pork ribs. If I'm in Memphis, I'll try a few other spots before I visit Corky's again.
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Courtney P.

Yelp
While in Memphis for the Thanksgiving holiday, my dad, husband, and I were looking for some barbecue. We found Corky's and decided to give it a try. Despite being more of a chain-style restaurant, the barbecue was decent. To start, we decided to try their hush puppies and their fried onion loaf - think of a blooming onion from outback steakhouse. Unfortunately, both of the starters were quite disappointing as they were overly greasy and lacked any real flavor. For my entrée, I settled on the half slab of ribs and pulled pork combo with mac & cheese and green beans as my sides. The ribs were some of the best dry rub ribs I think I have ever had. And the pulled pork was juicy and flavorful as well. Again, the side dishes were a bit of a letdown and lacked any real flavor. We opted against dessert and all felt that the barbecue meats by themselves really shined, but there is definitely room for improvement in terms of their side dishes and appetizers.
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HsiaoCheng W.

Yelp
After yet another disappointing visit to their Collierville branch I decided to go to the original location hoping that they'd have better food and service. I gotta say I think the food was definitely better here. Maybe they smoke more ribs or something because the ribs in Collierville were all bones. But the ones here were noticeably better. Still charging for rolls though (60 cents each) which kinda makes me wince. But I can't eat the ribs without some carbs. Ordered the dry rub on a couple of full slabs. They looked kinda muddy in places. Not sure if that was from being wrapped in the foil perhaps. Wait at the drive through window once I got there was over 10 minutes for a couple of slabs and rolls. Seemed kinda long

betty d.

Yelp
The food was hot and the flavor was delicious. Our food had ample portions and the meat was flavorful and tender. Our server Brenda did an excellent job. She served us like we were the only two in the place. She even put a bib on me so I wouldn't spoil my clothes. Thanks Corky for making our day
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Kevin M.

Yelp
Heywood was awesome . The beer was cold the pudding was moist and Ribs were soo good I ate them the long way
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Ajay G.

Yelp
Miss Anita was an awesome server. The pulled chicken sandwich was great. My favorite item was the spicy catfish nuggets! Haven't had anything like that in a long time. I would highly recommend stopping by if you're in the area.
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Tommy R.

Yelp
Mediocre at best. I had the pork sandwich with potato salad and beans. If you want really good BBQ, don't go here. If you are REALLY hungry, then I guess it will do. Although the BBQ was tender and moist (I know: "moist" is a hated word. But it is accurate) with no fat , there was virtually no smoke flavor,,,no more than a steamed pork chop,,,which was pretty much how it tasted. The beans were spot-on: spicy and sweet. Potato salad, not so much. Now, I will admit that I am no potato salad super lover so take my opinion with a pinch of salt. My companion loved it. Service was excellent and timely. Low '60's, '70's and '80's music played throughout and the whole place was just a little loud but not too much to have a conversation.
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Kyle H.

Yelp
Fall off the bone ribs, I enjoyed my half dry rub, half wet rib order, and these were the most tender ribs on our visit to Memphis. My son loved the pulled pork plate and all the sides were good. Loved the decor and paintings! Service was pretty non-existent for our table, but would still return for that great food and vibe!
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Tara S.

Yelp
Shout out to our amazing server Ms. Brenda your a gem! I walkways come here when am in town it never disappoints:)
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Pat C.

Yelp
Bonnie (employee) helped me with my orders of bbq nachos for the Super Bowl party. She was very helpful and the nachos are delicious. I ordered more for a casual dinner forthcoming. The best!!!!

Kenneth W. D.

Yelp
Great food, great look, great friendly service--from Haywood. Truly the best of Memphis.

Mike M.

Yelp
Awesome food! Amazing service! Best BBQ in Memphis! Poplar location is very quaint! Worth the trip!
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Elaine D.

Yelp
Excellent service--my server has been here for 27 years! These folks are doing something right!
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A J.

Yelp
The service was great. Thomas was our waiter. He was amazing. Excellent customer service. I came back for my boyfriend to try the burger and he thought the same thing I thought it was delicious. It's smoky and grilled to perfection. I will always come back for this burger it's so good.
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Rob W.

Yelp
Ribs were delicious. Enjoyed the dry rub. Catfish platter was moist and tasty. Loved the smoked chicken wings. The banana creme pudding was good, but way too many vanilla wafers. I'd rather have more bananas than the wafers in pudding.

Pam A.

Yelp
Everything! Food! service ! ambience! we ordered captain Don's dinner and found everything to be delicious!
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Jessee B.

Yelp
Shared the Captain Don's platter with my bestie! $29.99 with 4 sides and we were full! Add the brownie pie (just an undercooked brownie with walnut bits) for $4. This place is awesome!
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Sean H.

Yelp
Best meal on my trip to TN! Excellent service. Mimi was amazing. We had the fried bologna sandwich and added extra sides. Great music in the background.
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Buddy R.

Yelp
Let me start by say the service is about as fire as the food! Haywood, Jason hands down made this experience a perfect 10! Now let's get to the food... Warning: This is some slap yo mama fire bbq. It may be bad for yo mamas health! I got the chicken & you know it was kickin, with a half rack of the best ribs I've ever had.... Get them Muddy & thank me later! The onion loaf was amazing & the dipping sauce is what got me to embellish the whole thing! Enclosing if you're in Memphis, are you looking for a place to eat barbecue at the treat yourself don't cheat yourself and eat at Corkys! IG King_Budz_
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Serleio C.

Yelp
Corkey's Ribs & BBQ is a solid spot for some great BBQ. The place has a nice atmosphere, and the service was spot on--Haywood, our server, took great care of us. I went with the full slab of ribs, half wet and half dry. Both were tasty, but the dry half really hit the mark with its seasoning. The beans were flavorful too, adding a nice touch to the meal. To top it all off, the banana pudding was a perfect ending--rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Overall, it's a good place to enjoy some BBQ, and I'll definitely consider coming back."L
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Amy D.

Yelp
It's been a few years since we stopped in at Corky's. We usually stop for lunch on our way back from the Gulf Coast. We were impressed with all the updates they made. The place looks fantastic. It also happens to be their 40 Anniversary and we ordered their full slab for 2 for $19.84. It was just as amazing as it always has been and such a great deal! We had wet and dry ribs that were both flavorful and tender. Our sides were coleslaw, cream with a little mustardy taste, fries, seasoned, and beans. Haywood was our server and he was super friendly and outgoing. He took great care of us! Can't wait to stop in again.
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Norm L.

Yelp
Food was good ribs and burnt ends the greens and cheese grits were excellent too a+ would definitely stop back next time I'm in town!
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Camille W.

Yelp
I took full advantage of Corky's drive thru I ordered the brisket queso dip and a coke that dip was simply delicious and a generous amount two can eat from one serving
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Harlee S.

Yelp
The food is great, but what really makes this place stand out is the service and people. Tarsha, our waitress, was incredible and an amazing person. She was so warm and welcoming and just the sweetest ever. Not to mention, when we left, we chatted with another customer who was staying in town for 2 days and said this was already his second time in. Now if that doesn't tell you something about this place, I don't know what will. The plates are plentiful and the price is great for what you get. And the dessert.. warm peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream. Scrumptious. This is the place to be y'all. This place will make you feel right at home and a part of the family.
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Cassie L.

Yelp
AMAZING!!! Thank you to the fabulous staff Haywood our server was an absolute pleasure!!! He helped our large party order and made sure at all times we cared for and payed attention to! The music was banging and everyone was friendly! The food was DELICIOUS!!! 1000/100
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Na T.

Yelp
Not sure if it's because we stopped by on X-Mas Eve, but everything was dry and sad :( I guess they're trying to clear all the food before the closure. Catfish nuggets were delicious though! Served w.their house made tartar sauce which was really good too! We got the platter w.4 meats and 4 sides. Skip the chkn at all cost. Super dry and tasteless. Our server was super polite and friendly as well.
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Jason S.

Yelp
Amazing ribs! My daughter had the pulled pork salad and she loved it! Huge portions.
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Rogers J.

Yelp
We had friends visiting from Florida and they wanted to sample Memphis BBQ. So we took them to Corky's in East Memphis. You could feel the Bluff City energy as soon as you walk through the door!! Corky's does not take reservations, but our party of six was seated in less than 10-minutes on a busy Friday evening. Haywood (our Server) recognized we were not locals, unfamiliar with the menu and provided an EXCELLENT suggestion to share the (4 Meat/4 Sides) Meal so everyone could get a good sampling of Corky's. Additionally, we ordered an Onion Loaf, Sausage & Cheese Platter, and Corona beers. The food was Very Good; especially the Sausage & Cheese Platter, Pulled Pork, and Seasoned Fries. However, as a process and performance improvement consultant, I was MOST IMPRESSED with the high level of service that Haywood provided us and the other five tables he was serving. NOTE: Corky's does not take reservations. If your party is larger than six people, I suggest you call and they will work with you. We saw a party of 25 greeted and seated in less than 5 minutes.
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P W.

Yelp
Visiting from out of town and researched top Bar-b-q places in Memphis. Corky's did not disappoint. My only regret is not saving room to get to the peach cobbler which I had my heart set on. But by the time I finished tasting all we ordered, there was no room for dessert. Service was outstanding from the moment we walked into the place and met gramps who charmed us all the way to our table to meeting our server James who was attentive and excellent in his service, even offering us soda refills to take with our leftovers. Food was great. Loved the catfish nuggets which were a nice balance of crunch and fresh, tender, smokey catfish. The side of spaghetti and potato salad were excellent. Fresh and full of flavor. Friend ordered full slab of ribs (half dry rub and half wet sauce). Both were excellent. Fall off the bone tender. I loved the dry rub because I like the crispier, tender, pull from the bone chew. Bar-b-q flavor was great with the evident but shuttle smoke. The baked beans and coleslaw sides were flavorful too. Not disappointed and glad we tried Corky's. The atmosphere is casual but comfy. Friendly laughter and engagement with pleasant soft rock and R & B playing in the background, making you want to sing along. I recommend giving Corky's a try.... Just 1 thing ...... save room for dessert.
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David D.

Yelp
The ribs were a bit dry, but the ambience and the service were some of the best that I've ever experienced. Truly was southern hospitality, almost like it was out of a movie.
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James H.

Yelp
Fantastic dinner! Friendly wait staff! A friend reccomended Corky's on our visit to Memphis and I'm glad he did. We ate at the Poplar dine in. Shared the 4 meat tray. I reccomend to anyone in the area!
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Arcenial R.

Yelp
Food was good and their service was awesome and I will give them a 5 star review .thank you guys for good service and a pleasant evening
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Mat R.

Yelp
What a place!! Awesome atmosphere, friendly service & beyond amazing bbq!! Every aspect of this place hit the spot!! I had the Memphis pulled chicken loaded potato, as well as 1/3 slab of ribs (half wet, half dry). I'll start off by saying that EVERYTHING was great... but man oh man, that dry rub on those ribs - I immediately want to head back there for more!! Very much looking forward to heading back to Corky's as soon as I possibly can. A must try if you're in the Memphis area!!
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Rick S.

Yelp
Our 1st taste of Memphis Bbq was here at Corky's. With a drive-through and dine-in seating this cozy atmosphere gives a good sense of excellent food. Plenty of seating and the service was fast. We tried the 4 meat 4 side dinner for 2. There was more food than we could have eaten. Some of the items were very tasty and some were a miss. Price for this feast was really reasonable. So why not 5 stars? Our server was not very attentive and we had to flag down other employees to help us get refills. I would definitely go back and try something else, (like catfish nuggets) I would also recommend you try it as well.
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Tanya A.

Yelp
I have been buying Corkys barbecue from QVC for years. as soon as we planned our trip to Tennessee, I knew I had to eat in the actual restaurant.. oh my goodness everything was amazing but the waiters and all of the staff were absolutely incredible.. so welcoming, friendly and outgoing.. The whole experience was one my family will never forget. Jalen was our waiter. I wish I could always have the service and that friendly smile he provided. if I ever make it this way again I would definitely come back.. thank you for the dessert
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Marina C.

Yelp
Nice place. Great friendly stuff. We had smoked wings with blue cheese sauce which were delicious. Fries pickles could have been better.
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James M.

Yelp
great good. excellent customer service. Our server Anita Rocks hands down. she kept up with not only our table of 5. but nobody went without or had to ask for refills. I'm in customer service and it's great to see someone enjoy their job and is really good at it

Jasmen L.

Yelp
The food was great!!!! Taste so good and the customer service is amazing!!! The manager Patrick Dean is very nice and accommodating if you come across any issues.
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Mary E.

Yelp
My husband and daughter have become addicted to the bbq chicken quesadillas and said they are the best quesadillas in town! My daughter requested them on the way home from daycare and we went to the drive thru. Wait wasn't long at all. We have ordered them twice this week. I enjoyed the shrimp and grits!
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Malcolm H.

Yelp
Ribs and bbq are number one. Good service. Great ambience. Good price. Good servings.
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Alexander E.

Yelp
Truly one of the worst dining experiences I've ever had. We arrived shortly before 6, and waited 15 minutes before our waitress checked on us. That was the warning sign, which we stupidly ignored. The meal started off strong with the bread and butter. Sadly, it went downhill from there. My half rack of ribs (wet) was cold. I sent it back and it returned... still cold. The beans were even colder. And the cole slaw had a hair in it! Not kidding; see the pic. Lost my appetite. By the time the server got back to offer us dessert, it was 7:30. So, dinner surpassed 90 minutes. Massive time waste. They did knock 50% off my bill, but it should've been free; and, of course, I would've preferred paying full price for a good hot meal. But I digress... Here's the long and short of it: STAY AWAY!! Edit: As you can see below, the manager reached out to me to "make things right." After emailing her, I've heard nothing back in over 48 hours.

Don C.

Yelp
Stopped in tonight....local once a year kind of customer going back to the beginning. My main point in writing is the renovations. They make a ton of sense and create a much more open space without destroying the coziness...that's a great accomplishment. But the floor is a nightmare: you people are going to buy some total hip replacements; I'm not talking about the odd butter bean: the whole place is slick. My folks are 80: I absolutely will not bring them back until I've scouted it out and found the floors fixed. The service has always been solid. I like more smoke, sweeter and hotter sauce, sweeter and hotter beans.....but it's a solid meal with reasonable portions very much dead center in the Memphis pulled pork tradition. but that floor with respect and best wishes
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Sean C.

Yelp
Great food, tried the half dry half wet ribs and they were great. Love the music vibes in there and how they tie into Memphis's rich music history. Anita took care of me and she did it right, great service. Will be back!

G M.

Yelp
OutSTANDING food here. Wow. Everything's terrific! Great service. Nice atmosphere. Definitely coming back here next time in Memphis! Don't forget to lick the plates. It's worth it.
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Kirsten L.

Yelp
Thomas was so friendly and wonderful. Our meal was also great, we had the meal for two. The restaurant is clean, the volume of the music was good, my only tid bit is that they are so amazing at waxing their floors that I was sliding around a little. But that didn't take away from the experience.