Referred to as “Home to the Blues,” Beale Street is one of the most lively neighbourhoods in Downtown Memphis. The street comes alive at night with live music performances of blues and jazz and the aroma of sizzling barbeque in restaurants. It is not only a popular tourist destination, it is also an important historical site with numerous landmarks to look at.
Whether you are looking for a chill hangout spot with friends or enjoy a nighttime experience, there can never be a better spot than Beale Street. Throughout the year, you will see various events and festivals being hosted in this area's restaurants. With countless options to try, what stands out the most is the expertly roasted barbeque meats which grab the most attention.
Try Blues City Cafe if you are a fan of both blues music and barbeque or if you are looking for something cosy, check out Itta Bena and enjoy your BBQ with a nice cocktail. These 5 restaurants will make your night out memorable.
5 Best BBQ Restaurants on Beale Street, Memphis
1) Blues City Cafe
Opened its doors in 1991, what started under the name of “Doe’s Eat Place,” Blues City Cafe soon became a landmark for the best barbeques in the city. With several popular music artists gracing their stage for decades, this spot has become a popular attraction for tourists as well as locals. After developing a new menu, their Ribs shined as a focal point of the restaurant. Along with Ribs, their Steaks, Catfish and Tamales also became highlights.
Location: 138 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Timings: Sun-Thu: 11 am–1 am; Fri-Sat: 11 am–3 am
Must Try: Ribs, Steaks, Catfish and Tamales
Price For 2: $50 approx.
Image Credit: Blues City Cafe
2) King Jerry Lawler's Hall of Fame Bar & Grille
A home for great food, great music and great BBQ, King Jerry Lawler’s Hall of Fame Bar & Grille is the perfect spot for wrestling fans who also enjoy music and food. Showcasing the glory of the “King” of Memphis Wrestling and WWF, Jerry Lawler, this restaurant is where you will see numerous memorabilia items on the wall. This easygoing destination is famous for its Barbeques, among which Slam Burger is the top highlight. People also rave about their Pulled Pork and BBQ Sandwiches.
Location: 159 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Timings: Sun-Thu: 2–10 pm; Fri-Sat: 2 pm–12 am
Must Try: Slam Burger, Pulled Pork, BBQ Sandwich
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: King Jerry Lawler's Hall of Fame Bar & Grille
3) B.B. King's Blues Club
Thanks to the redevelopment of Beale Street, the two famous BBQ restaurants —B.B. King and Tommy Peters— got merged into one, resulting in this classy cool club that pays homage to the King of Blues. After the makeover, this club brought more fun and development to Beale Street. Along with being an entertainment attraction, B.B. King’s Blues Club became a top-notch barbeque destination with signature drinks and live music. On their menu, the signature highlights Shrimp, Grits and Ribs are worth trying if you are going for the first time.
Location: 143 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 11 am–12 am
Must Try: Shrimp, Grits and Ribs
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: B.B. King's Blues Club
4) Itta Bena
Situated on the 3rd Floor of BB Kings Club, Itta Bena is a posh fine-dining cabaret serving the finest BBQs along with Southern cuisine. Here you will get to enjoy the best Southern dishes along with beautiful music in a relaxed atmosphere. Itta Bena, named for the place where the renowned BB King was born, captures the essence of elegant southern eating. Savour the Center Cut Filet Mignon, Shrimp and Grits and decadent desserts for the best experience.
Location: 145 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Timings: Mon-Sun: 5–10 pm
Must Try: Center Cut Filet Mignon, Shrimp and Grits
Price For 2: $40 approx.
Image Credit: Itta Bena | Instagram
5) The Pig On Beale
Step into The Pig on Beale, where you're welcomed to an attitude-packed experience with Pork. Since 2002, this Beale Street gem in Memphis has been a go-to for mouthwatering "Memphis Style" Hickory Smoked BBQ. Awarded "Best BBQ Ribs in Memphis" in 2003, they serve up everything homemade, from BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches to Hickory Smoked Turkey. Don't miss the BBQ Lovers Feast which is among the top picks at the restaurant. The thing that makes them stand out is their transparency about BBQ magic recipes. Enjoy the 60s diner vibe and our friendly staff – your ultimate destination for old-school Memphis BBQ.
Location: 167 Beale St, Memphis, TN 38103, United States
Timings: Mon-Fri: 11 am–10 pm; Sat-Sun: 11 am–12 am
Must Try: BBQ Ribs, Hickory Smoked Turkey, BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Price For 2: $50 approx.
Savour the best BBQs in Memphis in these amazing BBQ restaurants. Enjoy the liveliness of blues music along with sizzling smoky barbeque dishes and make your night out a memory to rejoice for life.