Day 3: Memphis BBQ

After our rendezvous in Graceland we headed for our hotel in downtown Memphis.  We stayed at the Holiday Inn so we could watch the rich folks stumble in and out of their Cadillacs into the famous Peabody Hotel.  Feeling adventurous we took a walk to experience some real down at home BBQ.

Neeley's seemed close and famous enough that it wouldn't be to much trouble... One piece of advice, drive, don't walk! Needless to say tourists is the most p.c. way to describe us wandering the back streets of Memphis. Actually the city appeared more threating to a couple of Upstater's than it actually was.  Though, as you can see Neeley's wasn't much to look at from the outside.

Before I get into the food, some may wonder how I found this place.  I had a list of possible "off Beale" BBQ joints to try.  Beale is Memphis's version of Bourbon Street, actually I read somewhere it's the second most visited street after Bourbon.  Either way, Neeley's is owned by Pat Neeley of Food Network's "Down Home with the Neeley's" and his brothers and sisters.  Going on that information, some good reviews, and perceived walking distance we took a chance.

GOOD CHOICE.  This slightly less corporate joint was so fast and delicious.  Not to mention to whole meal was $20 including 20% tip.

The lemonade was made fresh and the pork was smothered in sauce.  We got the small pulled pork sandwiches and were stuffed but the platters and large sandwiches looked amazing if you're going hungry!

I'd have to say I wasn't to impressed with Memphis as city overall but the Neeley's gave me reason to consider another go at it!

More to come on a night on Beale Next!