Founded by competition pitmasters John and Melissa Cookston, the Memphis Barbecue Co. flagship in Southaven is a serious destination for slow-smoked pork. The Cookstons compete on the international barbecue circuit and the menu reflects it: pulled pork shoulder, dry-rub ribs, wet ribs Memphis-style, and a much-praised pit-smoked half chicken.
The room is big and friendly with picnic tables, sticky baseboards, and a bar that pours generous beer. Order the rib sampler if you cannot decide, and don't skip the barbecue nachos — a Memphis-area institution that gets done very well here.