Knoxville's Best Barbeque [Updated 2025]

In my journey to uncover the finest barbeque joints in Knoxville, I have meticulously reviewed a total of 12 smokin' hot spots. Trust me when I say, these mouthwatering destinations will leave both your taste buds and soul deeply satisfied.

Brace yourselves, friends, because I am about to reveal the hidden gems and iconic establishments that define the culinary barbeque scene in Knoxville. From smoky ribs that fall off the bone to tangy pulled pork that melts in your mouth, prepare for a finger-lickin' adventure through the flavors and the culture that make Knoxville's barbeque second to none.

So tighten your bibs, folks, and let's embark on this savory quest together!

Buddy's Bar-B-Q

Highlights
Good Food
Reasonable Price
Best Meal on Tuesdays
Longstanding reputation
Friendly staff

Let's start with the highlights of Buddy's Bar-B-Q that stood out to me. First, the good food. From the moment I walked through the door, the savory aroma of barbeque filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. The smoked meats were tender and flavorful, while the homemade sauces added a delightful tanginess.

But what really caught my attention was the reasonable price. With portion sizes that satisfied even the heartiest of appetites, Buddy's Bar-B-Q offers great value for your money. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could enjoy a hearty barbeque meal without breaking the bank.

One of the best aspects of Buddy's Bar-B-Q is their unique offering - the best meal on Tuesdays. I couldn't believe my luck! Every Tuesday, they have a special deal where you can enjoy a mouthwatering plate of barbeque with all the fixings at an unbeatable price. It was like winning the lottery for barbecue lovers like me!

Buddy's Bar-B-Q has established itself as a Knoxville institution with its longstanding reputation. It's comforting to know that for years, locals and visitors alike have trusted Buddy's for their barbeque fix. This reputation is well-deserved, based on my experience.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the friendly staff added to the enjoyable atmosphere. They were attentive, quick to offer recommendations, and ensured that every diner had a satisfying experience. Their warm demeanor made me feel like I was dining with old friends.

Overall, my visit to Buddy's Bar-B-Q was a delightful experience. The combination of good food, reasonable prices, and friendly staff makes it a standout in the Knoxville barbeque scene. Whether it's a casual lunch or a special Tuesday treat, Buddy's Bar-B-Q is a go-to spot for any barbeque lover in Knoxville.

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Buddy's Bar-B-Q West

Highlights
Clean and nice
Delicious food
Great service

Let me start off by saying, Buddy's Bar-B-Q West is a hidden gem when it comes to enjoying a finger-licking good meal. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a clean and nice ambiance that immediately set the stage for a delightful dining experience.

The star of the show, of course, was the delicious food. My taste buds were treated to a mouthwatering symphony of smoky flavors and tender, juicy meat. The barbeque at Buddy's was everything I had hoped for and more. The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, the pulled pork was succulent, and the sauces were rich and flavorful. Each bite was a culinary delight that left me wanting more.

But the great food alone doesn't make a BBQ joint the best in town. It's the overall experience that counts, and Buddy's Bar-B-Q West didn't disappoint in that department either. The service was top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff members who were eager to assist and make sure my dining experience was superb.

If you're on the hunt for the best barbeque in Knoxville, look no further than Buddy's Bar-B-Q West. Their clean and pleasant atmosphere, combined with their delicious food and exceptional service, make it a standout choice. Trust me when I say, you won't be disappointed when you sink your teeth into their phenomenal barbeque.

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Buddy's Bar-B-Q South

Highlights
Fresh food
All you can eat ribs
Friendly staff
Cleanliness
Tons of car parking

Upon entering Buddy's Bar-B-Q South, I was immediately struck by the fresh aroma of the barbeque wafting through the air. The warm and inviting atmosphere made me feel right at home.

I was excited to see that Buddy's offered an all you can eat ribs option, which is a dream come true for any BBQ enthusiast. I couldn't resist the temptation and dove right in. The ribs were tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, leaving me craving more with each bite.

The friendly staff added to the overall enjoyable dining experience. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to provide recommendations. It was evident that they took pride in ensuring every customer was satisfied.

I also appreciated the cleanliness of the restaurant. The tables were spotless, and the restroom was well-maintained. This attention to detail further enhanced my dining experience.

One aspect that sets Buddy's Bar-B-Q South apart is the ample parking available for customers. I didn't have to worry about finding a space, which is often a concern in busy areas.

Overall, Buddy's Bar-B-Q South truly impressed me with their fresh food, mouth-watering all you can eat ribs, friendly staff, cleanliness, and convenient parking. It's the perfect spot for BBQ lovers looking for a delicious and hassle-free dining experience.

So, if you find yourself in Knoxville and craving some top-notch barbeque, don't miss out on the experience at Buddy's Bar-B-Q South. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

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Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive

-Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive in Knoxville is a prime spot for finger-licking good barbeque. The meat is meltingly tender and the smoky flavors will transport you to BBQ heaven. With a relaxed and friendly vibe, this joint is a must-visit for any BBQ aficionado in Knoxville.

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Dead End BBQ

I had the pleasure of visiting Dead End BBQ in Knoxville, and let me tell you, it was a barbeque experience like no other! From the moment I walked in, the aroma of smoky goodness embraced me, and I knew I was in for a treat. The menu was a mouthwatering masterpiece, offering a variety of meats and sides. And let me tell you, the flavors did not disappoint! The pulled pork was tender, juicy, and packed with a smoky punch. The ribs were fall-off-the-bone tender, with a finger-licking glaze that had me reaching for more. The sides were equally delightful, with the mac and cheese being a standout. But what really set Dead End BBQ apart was their genuine passion for barbecue. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and you could tell they genuinely loved what they were doing. The rustic atmosphere added to the charm, making it a truly enjoyable dining experience. If you're looking for the best barbeque in Knoxville, look no further than Dead End BBQ. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que

Alright, folks, listen up! Let me tell you about my recent escapade to Famous Dave's Bar-B-Que in Knoxville. This place has got bold flavors that will make your taste buds dance. From tender rib racks to juicy brisket, Famous Dave's knows how to bring the heat. It's a must-visit for any BBQ lover in Knoxville!

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Calhoun's

Alright folks, let me tell you, Calhoun's in Knoxville is a BBQ haven. From the moment I walked in, the aroma of perfectly smoked meats filled the air. The ribs were heavenly, tender and juicy, with a smoky flavor that leapt off the plate. And the sides? Mouthwatering. Calhoun's definitely lives up to its reputation as some of the best BBQ in Knoxville.

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Calhoun's On The River

Calhoun's On The River in Knoxville offers a barbeque experience that will tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, perfect for kicking back with some lip-smacking ribs and a cold drink. Their tender and flavorful meats, combined with their delicious homemade sauces, make Calhoun's a must-visit spot for any BBQ lover in Knoxville. Yee-haw, folks!

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Sweet P's Uptown Corner

Sweet P's Uptown Corner in Knoxville truly is a hidden gem for barbeque lovers. From their tender and juicy pulled pork to their smoky and flavorful ribs, every bite is a mouthwatering delight. The playful atmosphere and friendly staff make it an enjoyable dining experience. A must-visit for any BBQ enthusiast in Knoxville.

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Love That BBQ

Love That BBQ in Knoxville is a must-visit for all barbeque aficionados. The tantalizing aroma of slow-cooked meats engulfed the air as I eagerly indulged in their tender ribs and succulent pulled pork. The flavor explosion was further enhanced by their signature smoky sauce. This place definitely lives up to its name—I absolutely loved it!

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Smash Mouth BBQ

Smash Mouth BBQ in Knoxville is a finger-licking spot that offers a mouthwatering selection of barbeque. The tender meat is seasoned to perfection, and their secret blend of spices adds a wow factor to every bite. With a lively atmosphere and friendly staff, it's the perfect place for some serious BBQ indulgence.

Clanton's BBQ

My taste buds were set on fire with the incredible flavors at Clanton's BBQ in Knoxville. The succulent ribs were worthy of a foodie's dreams and the tangy sauce was a revelation. Clanton's is a must-visit for any true barbeque lover in Knoxville.