Nashville’s barbecue scene is almost as beloved as its music scene. From pitmasters who rise from ash-covered obscurity to culinary fame to the sauces and spices that make their own blend of rich harmonies, take a deep dive into some of Music City’s best BBQ.

Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

Award-winning pitmaster Pat Martin serves up a mouthwatering array of smoked meats, from tender brisket to succulent ribs, all slow-cooked to perfection at each of his three Nashville locations. Don't miss the signature Redneck Taco, a finger-licking fusion of BBQ and Tex-Mex flavors that piles your choice of pulled pork, brisket, smoked chicken, smoked turkey or catfish high on a cornbread hoecake with slaw and sweet and spicy Jack’s Creek Sauce. 410 4th Ave. S, martinsbbqjoint.com

Peg Leg Porker

Located in the Gulch, Peg Leg Porker is a haven for barbecue aficionados, boasting award-winning dry-rub ribs that fall off the bone and a tangy vinegar-based sauce that adds the perfect kick. Be sure to pair your meal with their famous barbecue nachos for the ultimate pigout. 903 Gleaves St., peglegporker.com

Edley's Bar-B-Que

With multiple locations across the city, Edley's is a beloved Nashville institution, serving up classic Southern barbecue and from-scratch sides. While you can’t go wrong with any of their smoked meats, their smoked wings are a standout, espeically when tossed in their famous Walking Bird sauce—a face-melting (in a good way) blend of ghost pepper, Serrano and habanero peppers. Multiple locations, edleysbbq.com

Jack's Bar-B-Que

Jack's has been a fixture on the local BBQ scene since 1976, drawing in diners with its hickory-smoked meats and homestyle sides. Whether you take a break from boozing at their Broadway location or venture to one of their other spots, don’t leave without trying their signature Tennessee pork shoulder, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of their famous hot sauce. Multiple locations, jacksbarbque.com

Central BBQ

Central BBQ is a Memphis-style mecca for barbecue lovers, serving up dry rub ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with flavor. Prefer a wet rub? No problem! Their 24-hour meat marinade is the perfect blend of spice and smoke. 408 11th Ave. N, cbqmemphis.com