Three Lip Smackin’ Finger Lickin’ Barbecue Eateries

Whether you love a dry-rubbed, fall-off-the-bone rack of ribs or a pulled pork sandwich smothered in a sweet and spicy sauce, Tennessee barbecue is in a class all its own. While Nashville gets the lion’s share of attention for its meaty delicacies, Kingsport is a sleeper for the most delicious barbecue in the Volunteer State. If you’re in the mood for perfectly smoked meats and delectable sides that bring the meal full-circle, make sure to check out these lip-smacking, finger-licking barbecue joints in Kingsport.

Pratt’s BBQ

Located off E. Stone Drive, Pratt’s BBQ is easy to find thanks to a 20-foot-tall Native American statue greeting you from the road. It stands in front of the iconic red barn that functions as both a restaurant and a catering hall, while also giving you a country-style atmosphere unlike any other. A Kingsport institution since 1971, Pratt’s is most famous for their glazed hams and ribs, although almost everything on the menu is a home run.

The St. Louis-cut ribs get a dry rub of secret ingredients and then hit the smoker for four hours over a bed of Tennessee hickory wood chips. Pratt’s legendary honey-glazed ham is also a popular menu item. If neither of those strike your fancy, grab a brisket sandwich, pulled pork, barbecue chicken, or catfish. Make sure to pair them with one of Pratt’s “sidekicks” like smokehouse beans, bacon-laced mac n’ cheese, or fried okra.

Braeden’s BBQ

For great service and barbecue that’s made with love, head to Braeden’s BBQ at 823 N. Eastman Rd. At Braeden’s you have plenty of options to quell your hunger, from traditional barbecue staples to 100 percent black angus burgers. The best way to proceed is with one of their combos, which offers one sandwich or entree, one side, and a 32-ounce drink starting at $8.

If a burger sounds good, grab the one-third-pound Braeden burger that has smoked cheddar and a house sauce on top of Texas toast. For the indecisive diner, Braeden’s offers a sampler platter with pork, turkey, a quarter-rack of ribs, and two sides. Choose from coleslaw, baked beans, seasoned fries, or another delicious side for a full meal.

Phil’s Dream Pit

Phil’s Dream Pit starts every day with its quest to create the perfect barbecue. High-quality meats are just one part of the equation, and only with the tastiest sauces and best sides can barbecue reach its apex. That’s just what you’ll get every time you hop into one of the three area locations of Phil’s Dream Pit.

Pork, beef, turkey, and chicken are all smoked to perfection around the clock, ensuring your entree is always fresh and cooked to perfection. The sweet baby back ribs are always in high demand, the fatty, delicious pork belly is overindulgence at its finest, and the brisket is flavorful and tender. Slather each up with Phil’s famous barbecue sauce, and you have a recipe for the ultimate meal.

After you stuff your face full of barbecue, you might feel a slight tinge of drowsiness, but don’t worry. A food coma is a surefire sign that you’ve chosen the right entree and sides. It’s just your body’s way of saying thanks for the feast. Plus, the gym will still be there tomorrow.
Image by Greg Reese from Pixabay

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