Barbecue cravings hit hard in Knoxville, and locals know there’s no shortage of places ready to deliver the smoky, saucy goods. From roadside smokers to bustling family joints, this city offers a plate for every BBQ mood—classic hickory, creative twists, and plenty of napkin-necessary feasts.
Let’s get to it.
Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus
When cider and brisket converge in Knoxville you end up at Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus. This spot is the city’s first cidery and meadery, so alongside smoked meats you’ll find a rotating lineup of craft ciders, artisan meads, local beers, and seltzers.
The applewood-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and chicken each earn top billing, but those fried okra and fried green tomatoes know how to hold their own. You’ll find classic Southern sides like collard greens and cheese grits sharing space with evolving daily specials at The Bohemian, their on-site restaurant.
Lunch specials arrive at reasonable prices, and counter-service makes it easy to grab a seat or head out. If you’d rather stay home, you can order growlers or catering for your next gathering. Between the barrel-aged drinks and the hickory-kissed meats, there’s a joyful clash of flavors here that’s hard to find anywhere else. Browse their menu and cider selection right here.
Jim ‘N Nick’s Bar-B-Q
Since 1985 Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q has championed honest, handcrafted Southern barbecue. This Birmingham transplant slow-smokes pork, brisket, and turkey breast over hickory for up to 12 hours so the meat practically falls apart.
Sauce options range from the tangy Original BBQ to Carolina Mustard and the unique Morgan Co. White Sauce. Each serving arrives generous and unpretentious. On the side, the coleslaw and cheese biscuits often steal the show.
No freezers here and no microwaves in sight. Casual dining rooms and counter service keep the atmosphere welcoming. You can also call ahead for takeout or schedule catering when your guest list grows beyond the dining room. Between the family-first vibe and hefty portions, deciding which sauce to try first is the only real dilemma. Dig into the Southern classics right here.
Big Orange BBQ
Over at Big Orange BBQ in Knoxville, Southern barbecue gets a citrusy twist. Located inside West Town Mall, this spot marinates ribs, pulled pork, and chicken in orange juice, adding bright flavor to every rack and sandwich.
Traditionalists will find the usual ribs—both bone-in and boneless—as well as brisket. But if you want something different, try the vegan barbecue made from soy proteins and Cajun spices. Every meal comes with two sides. Classic cornbread, potato salad, and coleslaw live alongside healthier options like broccoli… or satisfy your sweet tooth with orange cookies for dessert.
The vibe is family-friendly, complete with a kids’ menu, weekend karaoke, and live sports on TV. They even cater your next party and offer loyalty perks for regulars. If you’re in the mood for barbecue that colors outside the lines, this is the place to be. Check out the lineup at Big Orange BBQ.
Billie Rae’s BBQ Soul Food & Catering
At Billie Rae’s BBQ Soul Food & Catering in Knoxville, the aroma of wood smoke greets you at the door. Opened in 2023 by Eugene and Patrice Chandler to honor Eugene’s mother, Billie Rae, this restaurant brings a Memphis-style approach to every dish.
Brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and smoked-fried chicken wings all slow-cook over hickory wood, giving them a deep, savory sweetness. The sides are equally impressive… smoked mac & cheese, fried cabbage, green beans, and even smoked potato salad showcase that cast-iron skillet expertise.
Service is counter style but the setting feels like family. Portions are generous and prices stay reasonable. Don’t miss the Sunday special featuring smoked meatloaf—it adds a playful twist to your week. If you want soulful flavors balanced by down-home hospitality, you won’t leave hungry. Peep the menu and order for pickup or dine-in.
Buddy’s bar-b-q
Since 1972, Buddy’s bar-b-q has been serving East Tennessee the real deal in hickory-smoked meats. Family-owned for over 50 years, Buddy’s sticks to a “low and slow” approach, smoking pork, brisket, and spiral-sliced ham for 12 to 13 hours. The result is meats so tender you might just form a fan club.
The side lineup is equally memorable, from golden hush puppies to tangy coleslaw. If you’re feeling adventurous, dig into a loaded Hawg Back Potato. It’s a meal in itself.
Buddy’s offers dine-in, takeout, and catering, plus Family Packs that feed a crowd without emptying your wallet. Generations of locals have trusted Buddy’s for that perfect balance of quirks, character, and down-home taste. If genuine Southern barbecue is what you seek, you’ve come to the right place. Dig into their smoky lineup here.
Clanton’s BBQ
If you like your barbecue without any frills or pretenses, Clanton’s BBQ might become your go-to when that smoky craving hits. Located on E Governor John Sevier Hwy in Knoxville, this family-run, takeout-only spot excels at classic Southern barbecue. The menu highlights pulled pork, chicken, and especially those succulent ribs. Everything comes with a tangy homemade sauce that seems to have more fans than the local high school football team.
Portions here are generous, and prices won’t force you to remortgage the house. The four-meat sampler with three sides and a drink for just $15 is no typo. Classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw are on offer…no kale salad or artisan frills in sight.
You can watch the smoker outside working its magic at a steady 250°F. Keep in mind that the counter opens Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Weekends belong to rest, not ribs. If you want quick, no-nonsense barbecue that fills you up and keeps you coming back, this is the place. Dive headfirst into their delicious lineup.
Clean Smoke BBQ
At Clean Smoke BBQ, Texas-style barbecue meets family tradition in Knoxville. Joseph Root and his son Noah fire up hickory-smoked brisket, pulled pork that sings with flavor, and tender chicken. This isn’t just any roadside sandwich operation. House-made specialties like smoked mac & cheese and buffalo bleu chicken fries steal the show.
You’ll find their food truck around town or catering backyard parties and weddings. Everything is customizable, from boxed lunches to lumberjack-style buffets. Their catering menu lets you mix and match meats and sides as easily as you would draft a fantasy football lineup.
Rumor has it they’ll soon be at Kern’s Food Hall, bringing brisket that works just as well off the highway as it does in a downtown setting. Whether you roll up looking for a quick bite from the truck or book them for a big event, expect the same commitment to smoky depth and friendly service. Clean Smoke BBQ proves that great barbecue is a family affair, and everyone’s invited to pull up a chair. give Clean Smoke BBQ a look here.
Dead End BBQ
Since 2009, Dead End BBQ has been smoking up a storm in Knoxville. What began as a humble block party operation has grown into an East Tennessee staple for competition-level barbecue. Here you can order brisket that melts on your tongue, St. Louis cut ribs, or even bologna that rivals its meatier counterparts.
The real show-stealers may be the sides. Macaroni mingles with pimento cheese for an extra kick. Brussels sprouts join forces with bacon, onions, and a sprinkle of goat cheese. And the coleslaw? It comes in three colors to suit any taste.
Pricing is straightforward and family-friendly. A feast for 4 to 6 people runs about $70, making it easy to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. You can dine in, grab takeout, or book them for your next gathering.
Dead End BBQ keeps the competition fires burning even when you’re just eating on the curb. Red or white slaw…decision-making never tasted so good. Peruse the menu and pick your favorite side.
Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
For a taste of Texas in Knoxville, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit delivers classic slow-smoked meats and down-home sides. Founded in 1941, this Texas-born chain sticks to the essentials: brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken, all kissed by hickory wood for that authentic flavor.
Counter service keeps things casual. You’ll pick your meats and pair them with sides like macaroni and cheese, green beans with bacon, or fried okra. Sauces span original, spicy, sweet, and Carolina mustard so you can experiment until you find your favorite.
Portions here play it generous and prices sit in that sweet spot where no one needs a solitaire break from the bank. Whether you dine in, grab takeout, or call on their catering team, Dickey’s keeps the focus on hearty portions and reliable quality. Expect the air inside to smell of wood smoke long after you leave the table. That lingering scent is just part of the Dickey’s experience. See what’s slow-smoking at Hardin Valley.
Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que
With a menu that spans regional barbecue classics, Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que serves up a global gathering of smoked meats. From hickory-smoked St. Louis-style ribs to Georgia chopped pork and stacks of pulled chicken, there’s a carnivore delight for every taste.
Each meat is smoked low and slow over hickory wood. Then they parade an array of in-house sauces, from Sweet & Zesty to the boldly named Devil’s Spit. These sauces let you tailor the heat and sweetness until it hits just right.
Sides here are every bit as satisfying. Cornbread muffins sit alongside creamy mac and cheese, and collard greens come cooked with smoked meat for extra depth. Whether you dine in at the casual tables, pick up takeout, or try the curbside option, the service stays friendly and the portions stay generous.
Famous Dave’s has collected more awards than a competitive hog caller, so you know their ribs earn every accolade. It’s a finger-licking invitation to taste barbecue from coast to coast, all under one roof. Dig into their Knoxville menu here.
Ganns Pit Stop BBQ
At first glance, Ganns Pit Stop BBQ is easy to overlook, tucked along Asheville Highway. This family-owned spot embraces a no-fuss, all-flavor mantra that keeps regulars coming back.
Pulled pork and chicken take center stage, but don’t underestimate the meatloaf or fried bologna sandwich—they’re quietly stealing the show. The carryout setup means you can grab your meal and go, or linger under the covered seating if time allows.
On the side lineup, hush puppies, potato salad, and fried green tomatoes join forces to test your resolve: how many add-ons are too many? Spoiler…there’s no such thing. Everything is priced so reasonably that upgrading your portions never feels like a splurge.
Whether you’re rushing down the highway or deliberately taking a detour, Ganns Pit Stop BBQ delivers smoky Southern comfort without the table-service fuss. It’s the kind of roadside ritual you’ll find yourself craving long after you’ve left town. See what’s smokin’ at Gann’s Pit Stop BBQ.
HardWood BBQ
When it comes to Knoxville barbecue, HardWood BBQ stakes its claim with real southern flavor and family warmth. Owned by Brandon and Kelly Waldrip, the place specializes in classics—tender brisket, juicy pulled pork, and ribs that practically fall off the bone. Get ready for homemade apple BBQ sauce, plus three other house-made varieties so you can sample until you find a favorite.
The sides hold their own reputation. Baked beans, green beans, and potato salad all show up ready to impress. Keto-friendly options are available, too, for anyone cutting carbs. Seating is relaxed and family-friendly, inside or out, and a trio of big-screen TVs makes it a popular spot for game day. A wall of vintage local high school photos adds a dash of community nostalgia.
Portions are generous, prices stay wallet-friendly, and discounts for teachers, veterans, and first responders add an extra touch of appreciation. At HardWood BBQ, the sense of community feels as rich as the smoke ring on their brisket. Scope out their latest plates here.
M&M Barbeque Catering and Takeout
Anyone tracking down barbecue in Knoxville will appreciate M&M Barbeque Catering and Takeout. This family-operated spot on Summer Wood Road is known for its oversized takeout boxes, friendly prices, and a menu that balances Southern barbecue staples with unexpected twists—like lumpia and fried cabbage.
Pulled pork, brisket, ribs, chicken, and smoked sausage form the core offerings, and every bite comes with a side of mac and cheese, collard greens, or hush puppies. Devotees of sauce will feel right at home sampling sweet-mild, hot, extra-hot…all crafted in-house. If decision fatigue kicks in, the Big Mike Sampler steps up to the plate.
There’s no white-linen dining room here, but a small outdoor area gives impatient customers somewhere to dig in. Local reviews frequently crown M&M as the best BBQ in town, and with portions this generous, it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re loading up for an event or grabbing dinner on the go, the spread here rarely disappoints. See what’s smokin’ at their Facebook.
Shagbark Barbecue Company
Shagbark Barbecue Company stands out in Knoxville for its commitment to real wood-fired smoking and authentic Southern style. Founded by two barbecue veterans, both alumni of Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Hugh-Baby’s, the team keeps it traditional with beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and sausage.
Everything is smoked over wood, not shortcuts, so the meat arrives tender, juicy, and infused with that signature charcoal flavor. The house-made rubs and sauces are balanced just right, enhancing the barbecue without overpowering it.
Sides include creamy mac and cheese, tangy coleslaw, baked beans, and honeyed cornbread. Portions are generous, so don’t be shy. Service is counter-style in a relaxed setting, decorated with barbecue competition trophies that nod to the team’s history.
Seasonal menu updates and a thoughtful beer selection keep things fresh, and the family-run atmosphere feels like smoking meat at your favorite cousin’s backyard. If you’re chasing honest, old-school barbecue, Shagbark Barbecue Company delivers without ceremony—just big flavor. See what’s smoking at Shagbark BBQ.
Smash Mouth BBQ
Smash Mouth BBQ offers a laid-back barbecue experience right off Oak Ridge Highway. This family-run restaurant prides itself on straightforward counter service and a menu that covers all the bases—brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and even smoked meatloaf.
Inside, the vibe is cozy. A small patio hosts live music on weekends, adding extra flavor to your meal. Sides include rich mac and cheese, collard greens, smoked cabbage, and thick slices of cornbread. The portions are generous, so plan on leftovers or share with a friend.
Don’t skip the banana pudding for dessert…local buzz says it’s worth every spoonful. Prices are approachable, and the menu of tangy, house-made sauces ensures you’ll find the perfect complement for your meat choice.
No need for fancy attire here. Pull up a chair, order at the counter, and settle in to enjoy honest barbecue and good company. At Smash Mouth BBQ, the focus stays on flavor, hospitality, and the kind of relaxed atmosphere that keeps you coming back. See what the buzz is all about.
Smoked Pickle Barbecue
Every pitmaster in town claims greatness, but Smoked Pickle Barbecue lives up to the hype. Eric Pickle’s truck turns heads not just with its playful name but with every meat that rolls off the smoker.
They rely on hardwood smoking methods that give the brisket a deeply barky crust while locking in juicy tenderness. Each bite feels like a convincing argument in favor of true Texas-style barbecue…an East Tennessee skeptic would struggle to disagree.
The menu reads like a fan’s dream. Pulled pork and smoked chicken share space with pork spare ribs, cheddar jalapeño sausage, and bacon burnt ends for anyone who wants to double down on flavor and calories.
The sides are more than afterthoughts. Hatch chili mac and cheese and jalapeño cream corn steal their own share of thunder. There’s also classic pickle coleslaw for a crisp, tangy counterpoint.
Beyond the truck, Smoked Pickle handles catering, delivery, and large events. Word has it they’ll open a sit-down spot in 2025. In its steady, unassuming way, this operation is building a barbecue empire, one brisket at a time. Hit up the full menu if you dare.
The Humble Hog
At The Humble Hog, you’ll find a fresh spin on Southern barbecue with a menu that swings between comforting classics and bold surprises. Though the paint is still new, this spot in Knoxville already feels familiar to anyone who loves smoked meats with an inventive twist.
You can’t go wrong with pulled pork, brisket, or ribs—and there’s a range of house-made sauces from mild to habanero. Then you’ll spot curveballs like smoked lobster hush puppies or a pork burger banh mi…and suddenly you know this isn’t your grandpa’s barbecue joint.
Nearly every item is gluten-free unless you choose a brioche bun or dessert. The Humble Hog partners with local brewers and farmers to stock IPAs and creative cocktails such as the Sunsphere Spritz. Perfect fuel for tackling kimchi Brussels sprouts or any side that catches your eye.
Generous portions, laid-back vibes, and genuine Southern hospitality with its sleeves rolled up. That blend of comfort and creativity makes this newcomer feel like a hometown favorite. Have a look at the full menu here.
Wild Boar Tavern
Among Knoxville’s sports bars, Wild Boar Tavern stakes a claim by offering more than game-day staples. Here, “something for everyone” means hearty American fare, Italian-inspired dishes, and a serious lineup of smoked meats that any pitmaster would admire.
The baby back ribs practically demand applause, especially when coated in Jim Beam bourbon BBQ sauce. You’ll also find brisket, pulled pork, and wings tossed in sauces ranging from sweet to fiery.
Sides don’t just fill space. Creamy mashed potatoes, crunchy coleslaw, and golden fries each bring a bit of magic to the plate. They hold their own next to the star attractions without ever feeling like afterthoughts.
Family-friendly and laid-back, Wild Boar Tavern welcomes groups that can’t agree on one dish. Turn the game up, order a round of cocktails or local brews, and you’ve got a recipe for a good time.
Catering is available too, so you can let them handle the cooking at your next event. With its warm atmosphere and a Travelers’ Choice nod, this tavern keeps locals and visitors coming back again and again. Give their menu a shot here.
The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint
Finding a spot that pairs live music with smoked meats is rare, but The Shed Smokehouse & Juke Joint in Maryville does both effortlessly. Their menu features pulled pork, chicken, sliced brisket, smoked bologna, and racks of baby back ribs piled high on your plate.
House-made sauces sit alongside bacon mac and cheese, cheddar cornbread, and collard greens. The combination of smoky flavor and comforting sides keeps diners coming back.
It’s counter-service with a laid-back vibe and plenty of outdoor seating, rain or shine. Locals swear by the juke joint atmosphere when the band starts playing and the beer flows. Dine-in, takeout, and catering are all available, so whether you’re planning a party or just want a solo feast, The Shed makes it easy to get your barbecue fix. Scope out the meats and music right here.
Bustin’ Butts BBQ/210 Produce
At Bustin’ Butts BBQ/210 Produce in Sevierville you get a double dose of smoky barbecue and farm-fresh vegetables. This family-run operation offers slow-cooked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken alongside garden-fresh tomatoes, zucchini, and peppers.
On the side, you’ll find creamy mac and cheese worthy of its own headline plus coleslaw, baked beans, and smoked green beans for a lighter touch. They’ve held onto the same recipes for generations so each bite tastes like a well-kept secret.
There’s a shaded picnic area outside where you can savor Tennessee sunshine. If you’re short on time, grab everything to go. During the holidays they also smoke turkeys and hams for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Just follow the barbecue aroma and you’ll find a perfectly balanced mix of smokehouse favorites and produce stand freshness. Check out what’s smokin’ on their menu.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
When barbecue calls your name, Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que answers with serious hickory-smoked flavor. This family-run spot has been fine-tuning its pulled pork and slow-smoked brisket since 1991, so you know they’ve earned their stripes.
They let the meats cook for up to 14 hours, and it shows in every tender bite of ribs and chicken. Don’t overlook the sides… the baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad all bring their own brand of Southern charm. It’s easy to build a plate that satisfies even the toughest barbecue skeptic in your crew.
With locations in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, you can dine in, grab takeout, or call in for catering when you’re aiming to impress at the office. And yes, they’ve got ice-cold beer to keep things balanced. Convenience and comfort come standard here, alongside big, smoky portions you’ll be happy to dig into. Get smoky with Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que here.
Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack
Roll into Boss Hogg’s BBQ Shack in Pigeon Forge when you’re ready for straightforward, satisfying barbecue. No frills here—just slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and ribs paired with plenty of homemade sauces to keep things lively.
Memphis-style ribs bring that classic tang, while the mustard-based sauce adds a punch of personality. Sides cover the essentials: creamy mac and cheese, crisp coleslaw, and seasoned green beans round out the spread.
Portions are generous by design. Whether you opt for the brisket value pack or sample the smoked sausage and chicken, you’ll walk away full. Dine inside, take a seat on the covered patio, or grab takeout for your own backyard BBQ. Boss Hogg’s focuses on big flavors, big portions, and genuine Southern hospitality—no overcomplication required. Dig into their menu here.
