When it comes to hearty, flavorful meat, few things compare to a good rack of beef ribs. And here in Nashville, there's no shortage of restaurants serving up some of the best beef ribs around.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, finding the perfect spot to indulge in this classic Southern dish can be a challenge. That's why we've scoured the city to bring you a definitive guide to the best places for beef ribs in Nashville.
From traditional barbecue joints to upscale eateries, we've got you covered no matter what your budget or taste preferences may be.
Whether you prefer your ribs smoky and tender or with a spicy kick, we've found a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings. And with so many options to choose from, you'll never run out of new places to try.
So whether you're a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, come with us on a journey through Nashville's best beef rib spots.
From hole-in-the-wall joints to trendy new eateries, we'll show you where to find the juiciest, most flavorful ribs in town. So sit back, relax, and get ready to sink your teeth into some of the best beef ribs Nashville has to offer.
1. MISSION BBQ
MISSION BBQ is a casual chain restaurant that serves up delicious BBQ and classic sides.
The restaurant is decorated with memorabilia honoring soldiers and first responders, adding a patriotic touch to the dining experience. The beef ribs are a standout dish, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The menu also features pulled pork, turkey, and chopped brisket, all made from scratch and served in generous portions.
The variety of sauces available on the table adds to the meal, with options like Smokey Mountain and KC classic. The friendly staff and reasonable prices make MISSION BBQ a great spot for a casual and satisfying meal.
2. STK Steakhouse
STK Steakhouse is a top-notch place for beef ribs. The menu is impressive and the staff is knowledgeable about the different cuts and preparation techniques.
The service is exceptional and the atmosphere is upscale and modern.
The cocktail selection is fantastic, and the seafood is fresh. The sides are delicious, especially the truffle potato logs.
It is a bit pricey, but worth it for a memorable dining experience.
3. Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious beef ribs.
They slow smoke all the meat in house the old fashioned way, resulting in the most flavorful, tender, and meaty ribs you'll ever taste.
The brisket is also cooked to perfection and is rich and smoky.
The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable about their sauce options, which are each done really well. Don't miss out on this rockstar experience!
4. Peg Leg Porker BBQ
Peg Leg Porker BBQ is a top-notch place for beef ribs that offers some of the best ribs in the country.
Their dry rub ribs are a must-try and the sides are equally delicious.
The service is outstanding and the atmosphere is fun and relaxed. The pricing is reasonable for the amount of food you get.
If you're a BBQ lover, you must stop by Peg Leg Porker BBQ and give their beef ribs a try.
5. Edley's Bar-B-Que
Edley's Bar-B-Que is a lively and popular spot for slow-smoked meats and traditional Southern sides.
The restaurant offers a counter service and a spacious deck for dining. The beef ribs are a standout dish, with a tender and flavorful meat that falls off the bone.
The green beans and jalapeno cornbread are also highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and the service is quick. Edley's Bar-B-Que is a must-visit for any BBQ lover in the area.
6. Jack Cawthon's Bar-B-Que
Looking for some mouth-watering beef ribs in town that will leave you craving for more, then Jack Cawthon's Bar-B-Que is the place to be.
This casual BBQ shack specializes in serving a wide variety of pit-smoked meats and Southern-style vegetable side dishes. The beef ribs are the star of the show, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The generous portions are sure to satisfy your hunger pangs. The sauces are a must-try, with a wide variety to choose from. The prices are reasonable, making it an affordable option for a great meal.
So, if you're in the mood for some delicious beef ribs, head over to Jack Cawthon's Bar-B-Que and indulge in some regional smoked meat specialties.
7. Shotgun Willie's BBQ
Shotgun Willie's BBQ is a must-visit for all meat lovers. Their Texas-style beef ribs are succulent, juicy, and cooked to perfection.
The sides are equally delicious with unique flavors and textures. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is perfect for a casual meal.
The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to arrive early or risk missing out on their mouth-watering dishes.
Shotgun Willie's BBQ is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for authentic and delicious barbecue.
8. Totos Bbq express
Totos Bbq express is a must-visit for beef rib enthusiasts. The ribs are cooked to perfection and fall off the bone with ease.
The seasoning is spot on, and the meat is incredibly tender.
The sides are a great complement to the main course and are equally delicious. The service is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.
The restaurant is a hidden gem and definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for quality beef ribs.
9. Whitt's Barbecue
Whitt's Barbecue is a local chain that offers hickory-smoked meats, wings, and sides.
The beef ribs are a standout item, falling right off the bone and paired perfectly with their delicious BBQ sauce.
The service is quick and friendly, and the prices are reasonable. While there is no seating available, the food makes for a great picnic meal in one of the nearby parks.
Whitt's consistently delivers good BBQ, making it a top contender for the best in town.
10. Butchertown Hall
Butchertown Hall is a stylish restaurant that serves up wood-fired American eats.
The atmosphere is hip and trendy, with a beer garden that's perfect for enjoying a cold drink with friends. The star attraction, however, is the beef ribs.
These ribs are perfectly smoked and fall off the bone, making them some of the best in town. The homemade sauces and pickles are a perfect complement to the meaty goodness.
The staff are friendly and helpful, and the service is fast and efficient. If you're a fan of beef ribs, then Butchertown Hall is a must-visit destination.
11. Central BBQ
Central BBQ is a must-visit for beef rib lovers. Their ribs are tender and full of flavor, falling off the bone with each bite.
They offer a variety of sauces to complement the smoky taste of the meat.
The sides are also noteworthy, with homemade mac and cheese and piping hot baked beans. The service is prompt and friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
While they may be a little pricier than other BBQ joints, the quality of the food justifies the cost.
12. Swett's
Swett's is a soul food restaurant that serves up delicious cafeteria-style Southern cuisine. Although they offer a variety of tasty dishes, their beef ribs are a must-try for meat lovers.
The ribs are cooked to perfection, with tender meat that falls off the bone and a rich, smoky flavor.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
Whether you're a fan of Southern cuisine or just looking for some delicious beef ribs, Swett's is definitely worth a visit.
13. Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse
Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse is a no-frills chain that serves up classic BBQ fare, including beef ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great spot for a casual meal. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing great service to diners.
The atmosphere is rustic and family-friendly, with a kids' menu available for younger guests.
While there is nothing particularly unique about Bar-B-Cutie SmokeHouse, it is a solid choice for those looking for a satisfying BBQ meal.
14. Santa Fe Cattle Company
Santa Fe Cattle Company is a chain restaurant that offers a Southwestern-inspired menu.
Their beef ribs are a must-try for meat lovers. The ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor.
The restaurant also offers other dishes like steak, pasta, and salads. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is laid-back and comfortable.
If you're looking for a casual dining experience with great beef ribs, Santa Fe Cattle Company is worth a visit.
15. Caney Fork River Valley Grille
Caney Fork River Valley Grille is a paradise for meat lovers, especially those who enjoy beef ribs.
The portions are huge and very meaty, making it a satisfying meal. The restaurant also offers a variety of dinner choices with outstanding service.
The atmosphere is cozy, with animal mounts and a fire pit, and the staff is friendly. Prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food and service.
If you're in the mood for some delicious beef ribs, Caney Fork River Valley Grille is the place to go.
