Located in the shadow of Nashville but steeped in its own civil war-era history, Murfreesboro has a BBQ culture that’s both fiercely traditional and proudly inventive.
Middle Tennessee barbecue leans on dry rubs, pork shoulder, and distinct vinegar-tomato sauces.
Some places keep it rustic (think screen doors and smoke-stained walls), while others bring a polished, new-school approach. Here’s where to eat like a local:
Jim ’N Nick’s Bar-B-Q
Regional legend for a reason, Jim ’N Nick’s blends Southern hospitality with serious pit skills. Everything is made from scratch, including their fluffy cheddar biscuits that might just steal the show.
Their pulled pork—smoked for hours over hickory—pairs beautifully with a tangy Carolina-style sauce, and brisket fans won’t be disappointed by the deep bark and juicy middle.
Don’t skip the classic sides: creamy mac, baked beans with just the right sweetness, and crispy fried green tomatoes.
Slick Pig BBQ
A Murfreesboro institution, Slick Pig is all about smoky, old-school comfort.
The interior is low-key with sports memorabilia and long picnic tables.
Favorites include the smoked wings (they’re legendary—crispy and juicy, kissed with a light spice), tender ribs with a sticky glaze, and a messy, delicious pulled pork sandwich.
Banana pudding finishes the meal on the southern-sweet note only Tennessee can deliver.
Fat Guy’s BBQ
Salt-of-the-earth and totally unpretentious, Fat Guy’s smokes everything on-site and piles the plates high.
The ribs and smoked sausage get rave reviews, while their brisket sandwich is stacked and juicy, best eaten with plenty of napkins.
The atmosphere here is relaxed and friendly, perfect for dine-in or a hearty take-out order.
Smokin’ Buttz
This food truck-turned-local destination is run by a husband-and-wife team obsessed with creating classic Southern BBQ with a twist.
Try the pulled pork nachos, loaded with cheese sauce and tangy slaw, or the smoky brisket tacos.
Regulars love the sweet-savory house sauce and the friendly vibe at every event.
Follow them on social for their latest location—lines are frequent, but always worth it.
Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint (BBQ Focused Items)
While their fame comes from burgers, Jack Brown’s in Murfreesboro does a killer BBQ burger and “piggy fries”—shoestring potatoes topped with shredded pork, spicy sauce, and a creamy drizzle.
The burger bar atmosphere, craft beer taps, and live music make this a favorite for good-spirited evenings and casual bites.
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