Memphis

It is no easy task to stand out from the crowd in a town as discerning about their barbecue as Memphis, but Central BBQ has managed to do just that, attracting throngs of hungry Memphians with a decadent offering of ribs, hot wings, and most importantly, pulled pork sandwiches (they also have famously delicious side dishes). You're likely to find a line outside Central BBQ, but it is sure to be worth the wait.

With a long history in the city (it started as a basement sandwich shop in the 1940s) and now legendary Greek dry rub ribs, which manage to find the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, The Rendezvous is synonymous with Memphis dining and should not be missed.

"Italian cooking, southern roots" - a tagline that encompasses everything Hog and Hominy is all about. Chefs Andrew Ticer and Michael Hudman, the kings of Memphis dining, have received praise from major publications, including GQ and The New York Times, for their fabulously executed wood-fire pizzas.

Though it now has 24 locations across 11 states, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is a Memphis institution. Its roots can be traced back to 1973, and it's the first place any local will tell you to go for fried chicken, and with good reason. Do not skip the sides (the mac and cheese, in particular).

Laid-back and uncomplicated, Soul Fish Cafe serves some of the city's most scrumptious po' boys, as well as tacos and no-nonsense seafood (the desserts are pretty great, too). Several locations can be found around the city, in Midtown, East Memphis and Germantown.