
Bain Barbecue & Bakery
$$Central Texas brisket crashes the dry-rub capital

“Cajun-meets-Memphis smoke in Binghampton”
Elwood's Shack is the most genre-bending barbecue stop in Memphis, a Summer Avenue roadhouse in Binghampton that runs Louisiana flavors straight through a Memphis smoker. Part BBQ joint, part Gulf Coast kitchen, it plates boudin and crawfish next to brisket and smoked chicken, then puts it all on a laid-back, dog-friendly patio. The smoked chicken is the sleeper masterpiece, juicy under crackling skin and a match for the city's better birds. The brisket earns its place on the tray, the Cajun boudin is the genuine article made to order, and the BBQ tacos fold smoke into something you will not find at the old-guard pits. Hickory-smoked wings carry a Gulf Coast lean of their own. Creative without ever losing the fire, Elwood's proves Memphis smoke travels well past pork shoulder, and the crowds on the patio agree.
Elwood's is the most creative barbecue room in Memphis, where Louisiana Cajun tradition meets Memphis smoke in dishes the old-guard pits never attempt. The smoked chicken rivals the city's best birds, and the boudin is the real thing.
6 dimensions, each scored 0-10
Regulars point to Smoked Chicken, Cajun Boudin, Brisket, and BBQ Tacos.
Tue–Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 11am–3pm
Elwood's Shack is closed Monday. Hours can change on holidays, so it's worth confirming before a trip.
Elwood's Shack is budget-friendly ($).
Elwood's Shack serves Memphis Style barbecue — Memphis BBQ is rib country. The great debate is wet vs. dry: dry ribs are coated in a paprika-heavy spice rub and served without sauce, while wet ribs are glazed with a tomato-vinegar based sauce. Memphis also claims BBQ spaghetti and the BBQ nachos.
Elwood's Shack has been serving Memphis barbecue since 2011.

Central Texas brisket crashes the dry-rub capital

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