Central BBQ, Memphis, TN

Central BBQ, located in Memphis, TN.

The rain had already started to come down hard by the time we arrived at our second lunch stop of the day: Central BBQ, another place reputed by many to be the best in Memphis. By the look of the lengthy line out the door (despite the rain), the locals seemed to be in agreement. We wait in line and finally placed our order of a combo plate with ribs, pork, and chicken, with sides of baked beans and macaroni and cheese.

Our meal of ribs, pork, and chicken, with sides of mac and cheese and baked beans.

The ribs were excellent. We were asked if we wanted them sauced, half sauced, or none, and we went with half. They were smoky and tender, cooked just right. They really didn't require any sauce at all; the dry rub was so flavorful and delicious. The pork and chicken were both smoky and moist, very flavorful. Both were served pulled. The beans were sweet and pretty tasty. The mac and cheese appeared powdered and bland, the only disappointing part of the meal. They had 4 ttypes of sauces; mild, hot, mustard and vinegar. The mild was quite good while the other 3 were unremarkable. Really though the meal didn't need any sauce. It also came with 2 rolls.

Central, to this point, was the best Q we had on the trip so far, and worth every penny and minute in line. A must try if you are in Memphis. We rated it 4 stars.