Smoke, Sip, Repeat: Summer BBQ & Brews

Nothing says summer in the South like a cold beer and a heaping plate of barbecue. If your idea of summer bliss involves smoky pulled pork, tangy sauces, and a crisp local brew in hand, Tennessee has just the thing. A laid-back BBQ and brews crawl is the perfect excuse to hit the road and discover some of the state’s most mouthwatering spots for food and drink.

Start your journey out west in Memphis, where barbecue is practically a language of its own. Sure, everyone knows Central BBQ, but for a quieter, equally delicious vibe, swing by Payne’s Bar-B-Q, a no-frills joint where the chopped pork sandwich is legendary. Then head to Hampline Brewing in the Broad Avenue Arts District. Their IPAs are crisp and playful, and the atmosphere is ideal for cooling off post-pulled pork.

Cruise east to the mid-state for a Nashville stop that skips the Broadway crowds. In the Nations neighborhood, HoneyFire BBQ blends traditional smoke with modern flair—don’t miss the brisket tacos. Just around the corner, Southern Grist Brewing keeps things experimental with small-batch sours and hazy IPAs that change almost weekly. Grab a flight and sit a spell on their sun-drenched patio.

For something off the beaten path, detour slightly south to Columbia. JJ’s Barbecue has been quietly serving up hickory-smoked meats for decades, along with local favorite Southern sides like potato salad and baked beans. Pair your meal with a visit to Bad Idea Brewing, a quirky taproom in Columbia’s Arts District known for its ever-changing lineup of small-batch and experimental pours that keep locals coming back for surprises.

Wrap things up in Knoxville, where the craft beer scene is booming and the BBQ stays true to East Tennessee roots. Try Sweet P’s Uptown Corner, tucked away near the river with a menu full of smoky surprises. Wash it all down with a stop at Crafty Bastard Brewery, where the names are cheeky and the beers pack a punch.

Tennessee summers were made for long drives, full plates, and cold pints. Whether you follow this trail or blaze your own, BBQ and brews make the perfect pairing for savoring the season—and discovering the flavors that make Tennessee unforgettable.

Find more smoked goodness at https://www.guidetotennessee.com/barbecue-joints and more summer sips at https://www.guidetotennessee.com/breweries.