Central BBQ - Midtown

Outstanding got the big plate. Pull pork, Half rack ribs, brisket and sides. Ribs just about feel off each bone. No boiled ribs here, the real deal. Brisket was great as well. We got a full rack of ribs to go just to have them on our trip home. By the way best baked beans.

Central BBQ has a reputation as one of the quintessential Memphis BBQ places. I understand that the reputation is a lot to uphold but as a whole I was underwhelmed. The Ribs I got were dry and lean, and the pulled pork was average at best. The Mac and cheese was good, and the potato salad was very good, but the meat is the centerpiece of any good BBQ joint and in this case left a lot to be desired.

The food... There's nothing to say about it other than it's immaculate. The restaurant is cozy and you order at the counter. They have a HUGE selection of local beers on tap. There are other Central's around town, and if you have a big party they might be a better option than the midtown option. But this is the original and worth a visit for everyone who ever sets foot in Memphis.

I really enjoyed Central BBQ. Got through the line and sat down at the bar in minutes. My girlfriend and I split a half rack of ribs and a pulled pork sandwich. The ribs were very tender and had good flavor. The pork was insanely good. Best I have ever had. Would recommend to anyone visiting Memphis.

Food comes out quick and the place has some great history. Great service and parking too. I ordered beef brisket and a couple sides and was surprised by how cold the meal was. They also didn’t put on much BBQ sauce and the fries were stale. I’d highly recommend Tom’s BBQ instead. You can get some good meat rub and sauce here for your kitchen.