Food & Drink

Get your fingers dirty! The top 13 rib joints to try in Nashville

Nashville is renowned for its music scene, hot chicken, and Southern charm. However, the city is also home to some of the best rib joints in the country.

If you're a fan of fall-off-the-bone, succulent ribs, then Nashville is the place to be. With a variety of styles and cooking techniques, there's something for everyone.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, finding the best place for ribs can be a daunting task. It's easy to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available.

From classic barbecue joints to upscale restaurants, Nashville has it all. But don't worry, we've got you covered. We've scoured the city to find the best rib places that offer a mouth-watering experience.

In this blog post, we'll take you on a culinary journey through some of the best places for ribs in Nashville.

We'll explore the different styles of ribs, the cooking techniques used, and the overall dining experience. So, sit back, grab a napkin, and get ready to indulge in some of the best ribs Nashville has to offer.

1. MISSION BBQ

Mission Bbq
161 Opry Mills Dr, Nashville, TN 37214 (Google Maps)

Looking for a place to satisfy your BBQ cravings with some delicious ribs and classic sides, while also supporting our military and first responders at the same time?

Look no further than MISSION BBQ!

With a variety of meat options and six different sauces to choose from, this casual chain is a must-visit for any BBQ lover.

The atmosphere is patriotic and the staff is friendly, making for a comfortable dining experience.

Don't forget to try Peggy's peach cobbler for dessert!

2. Peg Leg Porker BBQ

Peg Leg Porker Bbq
903 Gleaves St, Nashville, TN 37203 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for some finger-licking good ribs, Peg Leg Porker BBQ is the place to go.

They offer fall-off-the-bone ribs with a phenomenal rub that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

The food is not too chewy or overdone, and the quick turnaround time means you won't be waiting long.

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, you can order your food and find a spot to enjoy it. Highly recommended for anyone craving some authentic southern BBQ.

3. Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint
410 4th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201 (Google Maps)

Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for some delicious ribs.

The meat falls off the bone and the flavors are spot on. The service is quick and efficient, even when the line is out the door.

The atmosphere is lively and the outdoor seating area is a great place to enjoy your meal. Don't miss out on the mac & cheese, broccoli salad, and fries.

The only downside is the runny and vinegar-based BBQ sauces, but overall, Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint is a fantastic spot for some top-notch ribs.

4. The Ridge

The Ridge
333 54th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37209 (Google Maps)

The Ridge is a hidden gem for BBQ lovers. With generous portions and affordable prices, this eatery offers a range of BBQ specialties, including ribs that fall off the bone.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable.

The restaurant also offers a variety of sides and sandwiches, including the popular Chicano Sandwich.

The atmosphere is laid-back and easygoing, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or family. If you're in the mood for some delicious BBQ, The Ridge is definitely worth a visit.

5. Shotgun Willie's BBQ

Shotgun Willie's Bbq
4000 Gallatin Pike Suite B, Nashville, TN 37216 (Google Maps)

Looking for some finger-licking BBQ ribs in town that won't disappoint your taste buds and leave you wanting more, then look no further than Shotgun Willie's BBQ.

This place serves some of the most delicious ribs you'll ever taste.

The meat falls off the bone and is packed with flavor that will leave you wanting more. The sides are also amazing and the portions are generous.

The staff is friendly and the service is quick. This is a must-visit place for all the BBQ lovers out there.

6. Edley's Bar-B-Que

Edley's Bar-B-Que
1004 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206 (Google Maps)

Edley's Bar-B-Que is a lively BBQ joint that serves slow-smoked meats and traditional Southern sides.

The ribs are a standout item on the menu, with just the right amount of dry rub and BBQ sauce.

The meat is meaty, smokey, and full of flavor, making it a must-try for any BBQ lover.

The staff is friendly and the prices are fair, making for a great overall experience. Be sure to try the banana pudding for dessert, it's really good!

7. HoneyFire BBQ

Honeyfire Bbq
8127 Sawyer Brown Rd #304, Nashville, TN 37221 (Google Maps)

HoneyFire BBQ is a polished joint that serves up top-notch smoked meats and classic Southern sides.

Their ribs are a must-try, as they are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with flavor.

The staff is friendly, and the service is fast and efficient. The ambiance is great, with outdoor seating available for those who prefer to dine al fresco.

If you're in the mood for some delicious BBQ, be sure to check out HoneyFire BBQ.

8. Totos Bbq express

Totos Bbq Express
4150 Gallatin Pike, Nashville, TN 37216 (Google Maps)

Totos Bbq Express is a hidden gem for those seeking delicious ribs in Nashville.

The meat is tender and falls off the bone, while the variety of sauces adds an extra touch of flavor. Customers rave about the brisket tacos and the muffins.

The service is excellent, with food cooked fresh to order. The portions are generous and the prices are fair.

The restaurant has a clean and friendly indoor eating area, making it a great spot for a quick lunch. If you're in the mood for some authentic BBQ, Totos Bbq Express is the place to go.

9. Ramzys Meat & Three

Ramzys Meat & Three
306 E Thompson Ln, Nashville, TN 37211 (Google Maps)

Ramzys Meat & Three is a soul food restaurant that offers delicious, home-cooked meals.

Their ribs are a standout dish, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is always clean.

The staff is friendly and provides excellent service. The sides are equally delicious, with an excellent variety to choose from.

If you're looking for a great place for ribs and soul food, Ramzys Meat & Three is definitely worth checking out.

10. Jack's Bar-B-Que

Jack's Bar-B-Que
416 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203 (Google Maps)

If you're looking for some of the best ribs in town, you won't be disappointed with Jack's Bar-B-Que.

This casual BBQ shack is known for its pit-smoked meats and Southern-style vegetable side dishes. The fall off the bone ribs are a must-try, and the brisket is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

The staff is friendly and the prices are reasonable. It can get busy, so it's best to get takeout or be prepared to wait for a table.

The atmosphere is nothing special, but the food speaks for itself. If you're a fan of BBQ, Jack's Bar-B-Que is definitely worth a visit.

11. Whitt's Barbecue

Whitt's Barbecue
5310 Hwy 70 S, Nashville, TN 37205 (Google Maps)

Whitt's Barbecue is a local chain that offers hickory-smoked meats, wings, and sides. They provide quick service and have a low-key counter-service setting.

The pulled pork sandwiches are juicy and delicious on their own, and their ribs are so tender they fall right off the bone.

The BBQ sauce is a good addition to the meat, but not necessary. Whitt's is a great place to grab a picnic meal and enjoy it at one of the nearby parks.

If you're looking for some of the best wings in town, Whitt's is the place to go.

12. Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q

Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q
2008 Jefferson St, Nashville, TN 37208 (Google Maps)

Looking for some finger-licking good ribs in town that won't break the bank, head over to Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q. This small BBQ joint is a hidden gem that serves up some of the best fall-off-the-bone ribs in town.

The portions are generous and the flavor is spot on. The brisket is also a must-try, cooked to perfection and oozing with flavor.

Don't miss out on the fruit tea, it's a refreshing and sweet drink that pairs well with the smoky flavors of the BBQ.

The service is quick and friendly, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or dinner. Give Ooh Wee Bar-B-Q a try and experience some of the best BBQ in town.

13. Butchertown Hall

Butchertown Hall
1416 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208 (Google Maps)

Butchertown Hall is a hip and stylish American restaurant that serves wood-fired and smoked Tex-Mex and American grub.

The ribs are a standout dish that fall off the bone and are packed with flavor. The brisket is also worth trying, although it can be a bit tough and dry.

The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal, but be prepared to deal with some pesky flies.

Prices are reasonable, and the bar serves up some delicious cocktails. If you're in the area, Butchertown Hall is definitely worth a visit.