Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Nashville

Ribs and American food

You want a meal centered on ribs that respects the traditions of American food.

Based on 801 Opinions
+798
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Stoke Haus Brewing & Barbecue image 1
Stoke Haus Brewing & Barbecue image 2
Stoke Haus Brewing & Barbecue image 3
View all

Barbecue restaurant combines laid-back East Nashville vibe with family-friendly atmosphere and classic video game entertainment like Nintendo 64. Indoor space feels open and industrial, while outdoor seating suits cool afternoons. Beer selection includes balanced craft brews alongside seriously smoked meats.

Ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender with a Memphis style dry rub that packs incredible flavor. They come out perfectly cooked and are often described as insanely good and outrageously tasty.

Brisket stands out with its well smoked texture, good bark, and balance of tenderness and juiciness. Pulled pork and ribs match that quality, offering tremendous flavor alongside solid sides.

People are saying

"I found the Texas-style BBQ here to be the best."

"The American food here, especially the ribs and brisket, is fall-off-the-bone tender."

"These fall-off-the-bone ribs are out of this world."

Good to know

1

Saturdays are the only days they serve their smoked brisket.

2

The brisket is available until it sells out.

3

The Survivor Watch party starts at the bar on Saturdays.

02
Roadside Pantry image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Mural-covered walls create a unique backdrop in a small space with limited seating. The atmosphere feels casual and focused on takeout, attracting those seeking affordable plates and homemade-style barbecue. Regulars praise exceptional turkey ribs and creamy mac and cheese as standout dishes.

Fried turkey ribs stand out with their exceptional flavor and come highly recommended with extra sauce. Pulled pork also features as a notable option alongside the crispy turkey ribs.

Mac and cheese stands out with rich, balanced flavors. The menu features pulled pork, cheeseburgers, and Cajun fries that taste homemade and well-seasoned.

People are saying

"I loved the pulled pork and turkey ribs; they were amazing."

"This mac and cheese is the best I've had in a long time."

"You have to try the turkey ribs, they're so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free at the hair salon next door.

2

Orders are taken through a small window in the back.

3

Prices are affordable, with plates and sides at reasonable rates.

03
Roy's Meat Service image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop with an old school General Store feel and a nostalgic 80-90s atmosphere filled with the smell of smoked BBQ. Friendly, family-oriented vibe welcomes locals and creates a neighborhood staple experience. Outdoor huge patio and small indoor dining tables add to the casual, community-focused setting.

Ribs fall off the bone and come with a well done texture. The sauce stands out as one of the better sauces recently tasted. A 4 bone order costs $8.50 a la carte and pairs well with sides like turnip greens.

Brisket stands out with rich flavor and tender texture. The bbq pulled pork sandwich offers a smoky, satisfying bite. Ribeye steaks show high quality and grill well at home.

People are saying

"The staff here is so friendly and passionate about their craft."

"I thought the ribs fell off the bone."

"I loved their famous smoked brisket."

Good to know

1

Roy's Meat Service hosts community block parties with free food and live music.

2

Prices are affordable, with meals available for under $10.

3

The service is quick, with food ready in about five minutes.

04
Shotgun Willie's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic dining room with Texas-themed decor and rock 'n' roll memorabilia creates an authentic, family picnic vibe. The atmosphere feels like a homey Texas BBQ joint with country music and the smell of smoking meat filling the air. Spacious seating includes an outdoor area and a bull ride for kids, making it welcoming for families.

Ribs come fall-off-the-bone cooked and juicy. They stand out as the true show stealers alongside sausage, disappearing quickly due to their flavor.

Brisket stands out as excellent and possibly the best in Tennessee. Ribs, jalapeรฑo cheese stuffed sausage, and pulled pork also rank as top quality.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing, tasting like actual barbecue."

"The American Food brisket here is unbelievable, truly the real deal."

"The ribs here are moist and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open from 11 AM to 3 PM and may sell out quickly.

2

Arrive by 1:30 PM to avoid missing out on food.

3

Free parking is available for customers.

05
Constant Smoke BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small food truck with laminated menu on the side and road noise nearby. Offers juicy, flavorful barbecue including brisket and ribs that fall off the bone. Prices are reasonable but sometimes outdated, reflecting consistent quality.

Ribs fall right off the bone and taste like homemade smoked ribs. They are meaty and come with sauces that pair perfectly.

Pulled pork and beef brisket come smoky and tender with just the right amount of sauce. Sides include mac and cheese and cornbread, with a taste of homemade canned chow chow.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the brisket, had an amazing smoke flavor."

"These ribs fell right off the bone and tasted homemade."

"I highly recommend the Mac and Cheese here."

Good to know

1

Prices are generally reasonable compared to other barbecue places in town.

2

Parking can be confusing; look for nearby street parking options.

3

The menu prices may not always be updated, so check before ordering.

06
Edley's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant with vintage decor and a cozy, lively atmosphere that can get noisy. Plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, including a heated patio with a putting green and dog-friendly space. Music and sports on TV add to the energetic vibe.

Ribs come out very tender and falling off the bone with a generous helping size. Fried ribs stand out as amazing and a favorite dish, served promptly and well prepared.

Pulled pork sandwiches and beef brisket stand out with rich, smoky flavors. Sides like jalapeรฑo cornbread and Mac n cheese complement the hearty BBQ dishes well.

People are saying

"They gave away free barbecue sandwiches and sides during the power outage."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket and pulled pork, is terrific."

"The ribs here are so tender and fall right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $9, but it can be difficult to find a spot.

2

Kids meals are available for $5, including a drink.

3

Bush Wacker Wednesdays offer $5 drinks all day.

07
The Ridge image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant offers rustic and cozy decor with comfortable outdoor seating and a covered deck. Atmosphere stays super chill with a small town vibe and an upstairs bar called the Attic. TVs in every corner add a sports bar vibe to the space.

Ribs come tender and juicy, with meat that falls off the bone. They have a meaty texture and nice seasoning on the bones.

Brisket stands out with its tender, lean meat and excellent flavor. Hush puppies come out perfectly cooked, soft inside and crispy outside, often the highlight alongside crispy wings and well-seasoned cheeseburgers.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The brisket here is amazing, truly fantastic American Food."

"The ribs here are so tender, the meat just falls off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy weekend brunch hours.

2

Parking can be limited when the restaurant is busy.

3

Wings may sell out quickly, so arrive early.

08
Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Drive-thru barbecue spot offers Memphis-style roadside food with fall-off-the-bone ribs and hearty shoulder sandwiches. The setup feels awkward, focusing solely on quick, flavorful BBQ without ambiance. It attracts those seeking fast, high-quality soul food to go.

Ribs come fall off the bone tender with a smoked flavor that shines without sauce. Half slabs offer a generous portion packed with rich taste.

Brisket sandwiches feature two big thick slices and stand out as amazing. Pulled pork shoulder sandwiches rank as some of the best ever. Sides like collard greens and mac and cheese are rich and soulful.

People are saying

"This American food, especially the brisket sandwich, is the best I've ever had."

"I found the BBQ here to be the best I've ever had."

"These ribs literally fell off the bone and were so tender."

Good to know

1

Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q is drive-thru only with no reservations accepted.

2

Bring cash as credit cards may not be accepted.

3

Parking is limited and can be awkward.

09
Tex's World Famous Bar-B-Q image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic, cafeteria-style seating creates a classic Southern BBQ vibe with a friendly, country-style atmosphere. The space feels like stepping back decades, offering a sense of community among neighbors. Sweet n' Hot sauce flavors many meats, complementing tender brisket, sausage, and ribs.

Rib Day on Thursday offers a chance to enjoy ribs alongside sausages, brisket, and pulled pork. The ribs come as part of a sampler plate with sides like potatoes and green beans.

Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked brisket stands out, often covered in a Sweet n' Hot sauce. Sides like mac and cheese, sweet cornbread, green beans, and deviled eggs complement the tender smoked bologna, sausage, and pulled pork.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be delicious and authentic."

"The American food here, especially the brisket, was juicy and flavorful."

"These ribs are the best Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

The place is only open 3 hours a day.

2

Rib Day happens every Thursday, attracting many visitors.

3

Expect long lines during peak lunch hours.

10
Sam's Place Belle Meade image 1

Sports bar with over 20 TVs and neat memorabilia creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Interior is dark but cozy, offering both bar seating and family tables. Noise level matches typical sports bars, attracting locals for games and socializing.

Ribs come perfectly cooked and sometimes vary in quality. They pair well with broccoli and appear in platters alongside chicken fingers.

Club Sandwich and buffalo wings stand out with strong flavors. Burgers come with cole slaw and fries, and dishes like chicken nachos, gumbo, and Cajun pepperoni pizza add variety.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch any and all sporting events."

"The staff here makes you feel so welcome and at home."

"I ordered the club sandwich and fries; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers two-for-one drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Brunch buffet is available on Sundays with a variety of options.

3

Expect half-priced beers during happy hour, around $3 each.

11
MeatVille Smoking image 1

Spacious restaurant with open seating and fresh, clean decor creates a comfortable dining environment. The atmosphere feels friendly and unique, enhanced by the aroma of smoked barbecue. Large groups fit easily at ample tables, making it suitable for gatherings.

Beef ribs fall off the bone with intense flavors and a beautiful bark. They come perfectly cooked and seasoned, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Brisket stands out with its thin slices, fat-glistening meltiness, and crispy caramelized bark locking in savory juices. Beef rib and shank also show up tender and flavorful, making the meat the main highlight.

People are saying

"I found the beef ribs extremely tasty and well-cooked."

"I loved the BBQ's unique twist with Mediterranean spices."

"The American Food brisket here just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a free dessert with every meal purchase.

2

Only bottled drinks are available; no fountain drinks are served.

3

The 1lb beef rib is priced at $40, and smaller portions are not available.

12
Arnold's Country Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Cafeteria style setup with school lunchroom charm creates a simple, unpretentious environment. Warm hospitality and friendly community vibe make it feel like eating at a friend's place. Quiet atmosphere with romantic music options adds to the cozy, down-home experience.

Ribs come fresh and tender with a rich flavor that stands out. They pair well with sides like fried green tomatoes and macaroni and cheese.

Fried chicken tastes like it was cooked in a cast iron skillet, just like Southern grandma's. Roast beef, mac and cheese, turnip greens, and cornbread all come packed with flavor and the meatloaf is great.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, authentic Southern style."

"This American food tastes like home cooking, made fresh daily."

"I found the ribs here to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on site for new customers who use the lot.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours; arrive early to avoid waiting.

3

The restaurant often runs out of popular items by brunch time.

13
Drifters Tennessee Barbeque (BBQ) Joint image 1

Barbecue restaurant with a spacious dog-friendly patio and live bluegrass music creates a lively yet chill atmosphere. Indoor space feels clean and modern with a modest bar and seating. The vibe blends casual weekend hangout with a true Nashville spirit.

Ribs here are fall off the bone tender with a flavorful rub that gives each bite a perfect balance. The smoked ribs slide right off the bone and offer a tender, juicy experience that stands out.

Corn dogs stand out as a popular choice with a solid reputation. The menu also features barbecue dishes like pork, brisket, chicken, ribs, and chicken tenders, plus large pork nachos with generous portions and strong flavor.

People are saying

"These ribs are so tender, they practically fall off the bone."

"I loved the ambience with live music on the patio."

"The American Food ribs here just melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Cornhole tournaments happen on Mondays, and trivia night is on Wednesdays.

2

Live music is featured on weekends, providing a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

14
JBJ's Nashville image 1
Live music bar

Live music fills a multilevel venue with loud rock and grunge bands and a rooftop bar offering stunning views. Energy peaks during events, with a vibrant atmosphere and quieter spaces beyond the main stage. Access includes an elevator and a unique path through a gift shop to the rooftop.

Ribs here have meat that falls off the bone and a delicious flavor. The Ribs and Beans dish stands out as a solid choice.

Chicken nachos stand out with strong flavor. The menu also features brisket sliders and a variety of sandwiches like the club and French dip. Desserts include a rich S'mores mousse.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delightful."

"The American Food here is delicious and plentiful."

"These ribs are delicious and the meat falls off the bone."

Good to know

1

The next band performs at 7:00 p.m. on Fridays.

2

Bikini bull riding competition happens weekly at JBJ's Nashville.

3

It costs $10 to ride the mechanical bull.

15
Rafferty's Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Upscale decor combines with spaced-out seating and a large bar area to create a clean, welcoming environment. Multiple TVs and 80's music add lively background noise, making the atmosphere sometimes loud and distracting. The mix of classy design and casual elements shapes a unique dining experience.

Ribs come fall off the bone tender and are often paired with garlic mashed potatoes or honey butter croissants. Kids and adults alike find them consistently delicious.

Club sandwich stands out with consistent praise for its quality. Prime rib and loaded nachos also feature as notable American dishes here.

People are saying

"The American Food here is great, especially the sirloin steak."

"The staff at this Lunch Spot made me feel so welcomed."

"The ribs here are so tender they practically fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait at 11:45 am for lunch.

2

The restaurant does not have a kids menu available.

3

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first-come, first-served.

16
Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Rustic setup with country decor and license plates on walls creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a backyard BBQ. Spacious dining room features large TVs for sports viewing and tables resembling home dining. Friendly, cozy vibe encourages relaxed, family-style gatherings.

Ribs come very meaty and often fall off the bone. Options include a full rack with dry rub or wet sauce, plus baby back ribs with honey sauce.

Pulled pork, smoked turkey, brisket, and ribs offer a solid range of smoky flavors. Cornbread comes pancake-style and arrives warm and buttery within minutes.

People are saying

"The BBQ service here is amazing and the staff are so sweet."

"These ribs were so moist and fell right off the bone."

"The American Food here, especially the ribs and brisket, is really good."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and free at this location.

2

Drive-thru service is available for quick takeout.

3

Expect large portion sizes for your meals.

17
Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Cabin-like decor creates a family-friendly setting with a casual vibe. The atmosphere varies from lively and welcoming to quiet and subdued. Known for fall-off-the-bone ribs and large combo portions, it offers a mix of classic barbecue dishes.

Ribs come falling off the bone and are seasoned to perfection. Both St Louis and Baby back ribs are tender and meaty, matching well with brisket and other BBQ meats.

Ribs, pulled pork, and beef brisket stand out with rich flavors. Cornbread muffins and tea complement the meal well, adding a classic touch to the American barbecue experience.

People are saying

"I was glad I ordered the cornbread; it was delicious and honey-sweet."

"The American food, especially the brisket and ribs, was delicious and tender."

"The ribs here are falling off the bone and seasoned perfectly."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs from 1 to 4 pm, featuring one meat and a side.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers, but specific times are not mentioned.

3

Curbside pickup is available and works seamlessly for online orders.

18
HoneyFire BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Large food hall setting with order-up style seating creates a casual, cafeteria-like vibe. Live band adds loud, energetic atmosphere while guests come and go quickly. Known for best brisket and Alabama slammer cocktail, it offers a mix of standout and average barbecue options.

Ribs fall off the bone and come in a full rack option. They are tender and flavorful, often paired with sides like baked beans and queso mac and cheese.

Brisket stands out as tender and juicy, often served in sandwiches on a sweet bun. Sides like mac and cheese and bourbon baked beans complement the mouthwatering BBQ flavors well.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is smoky and full of flavor."

"The mac and cheese here is great and above average."

"The ribs here are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

They don't accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Be prepared for longer wait times due to the busy location.

3

Half the sides may be sold out by the end of the day.

19
Twin Peaks image 1
Sports bar

Open floor plan offers incredible views and plenty of TVs showing sports around the space. Atmosphere stays loud and lively with live jazz performances adding to the energy. Crowd enjoys a mix of sports action and vibrant social vibe.

Asian-style ribs come in a half-rack sauced with sesame seeds. They taste tasty and are very good and satisfying at a decent price.

Pulled pork sandwich comes with sweet potato fries. Nashville hot chicken offers a sweet heat that suits those who avoid too much spice. Mac and cheese stands out as rich and creamy.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"The American food, like the pot roast and cheeseburger, is excellent."

"The ribs here are very good and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals on food and drinks are available until 7pm.

2

Fridays feature lingerie night, attracting a lively crowd.

3

Expect a packed bar during game days, especially on weekends.

20
The Black Spatula BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Food truck setting offers an inviting atmosphere with friendly staff and authentic down south style barbecue. Portions vary but often come in generous sizes with standout items like slaw dog and pulled pork sandwiches. Parking challenges and fluctuating quality, especially with ribs, shape the overall experience.

Ribs come juicy, tender, and packed with flavorful seasoning. Rib tips are well smoked with a tasty rub and deliver great smoked flavors throughout.

Pulled pork and brisket sandwiches come with generous portions and include coleslaw and pickles. Mac and Cheese is also very good, though some sandwiches have soggy buns from wet toppings.

People are saying

"The ribs here are so tender and juicy."

"I thought the fruit tea was amazing."

"I'll be back for the delicious pulled pork sandwiches."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to pre-COVID times.

3

Prices have increased recently, so budget accordingly.

21
Paula Deen's Family Kitchen image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Large dining space replicates a home kitchen with big windows overlooking the river and an elegant appearance. Bright, family-friendly atmosphere fills the room with lively energy, especially from children. A cute gift shop and play area add charm and entertainment while waiting.

Ribs come out tender and pair well with fried chicken. They hold up alongside other hearty dishes like pot roast and catfish.

Ribs come tender and flavorful. Fried chicken offers crispy skin, well-seasoned meat, and choices of white or dark cuts.

People are saying

"The family-style meals here are all-you-can-eat."

"The American food here is unlimited, family-style, and so comforting."

"The ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

2

The restaurant does not allow customers to take leftovers home, only desserts.

3

All meals are served in family-sized portions, making it difficult for solo diners.

22
Bailey & Cato image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with a family feel and a vibe like a cookout. It draws crowds, especially after church, creating a lively, welcoming energy. Known for best fried okra and tender oxtails, it serves classic southern dishes with a focus on home-cooked vegetables.

Ribs come tender and flavorful, often falling off the bone. They stay moist but can be a bit salty. Freshness shows in the grilled preparation.

Fried chicken comes out moist and seasoned to perfection. Cornbread and cornbread stuffing stand out as spectacular and fantastic. Oxtail gravy with turnip greens adds a delicious Southern touch.

People are saying

"The cornbread here is spectacular and crunchy."

"The ribs were so tender, they practically fell off the bone."

"The American food, especially the cornbread, is delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait time in line is around 15 minutes during peak hours.

2

On Sundays after church, the place tends to be packed.

3

Expect to order catfish at the register, but there are no signs indicating this.

Discover more

Nashville, Tennessee

Area guide
Loading Map...