Memphis-style barbecue is known for its dry rub, smoky flavor, and tender meats. The Memphis King BBQ in New York City aims to bring that authentic taste to the Big Apple. But does it live up to the hype? This in-depth review dives into the menu, atmosphere, and overall experience to help you decide if it's worth a visit.
Exploring the Memphis King BBQ Menu: A Taste of the South
The Memphis King BBQ menu offers a classic array of barbecue favorites, showcasing the best of Memphis-style cooking. Their menu isn't just extensive; it's designed to cater to a broad range of tastes and preferences, from purists to adventurous eaters.
Starters & Sides: More Than Just an Appetizer
Before diving into the mains, the starters and sides at Memphis King BBQ set the tone. The fried pickles are a standout, crispy and perfectly seasoned. Their coleslaw is a creamy, tangy delight that complements the rich meats. They also offer a variety of other classic sides, such as baked beans, mac and cheese, and potato salad. Each side dish is thoughtfully prepared, not simply an afterthought.
Meats: The Heart of Memphis King BBQ
The heart of any barbecue joint lies in its meats, and Memphis King doesn't disappoint. They offer a variety of options:
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Pulled Pork: Tender, juicy, and infused with smoky flavor, this is a quintessential Memphis King offering. The dry rub is expertly applied, providing a perfect balance of spice and savoriness.
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Ribs: Available in both St. Louis-style and baby back ribs, these fall-off-the-bone tender ribs are a must-try. The slow-cooking process ensures maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
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Brisket: For those who appreciate a more challenging chew, the brisket is a fantastic choice. The bark is perfectly crisp, while the inside remains juicy and succulent.
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Chicken: The smoked chicken is another crowd-pleaser, offering a lighter alternative to the heavier meats. The smoking process gives the chicken a unique smoky flavor that elevates it beyond the ordinary.
Sandwiches & Platters: Customize Your Experience
Once you've chosen your meat, you can customize your experience with various options like sandwiches, platters, or combo meals. The pulled pork sandwich is a popular choice, offering a satisfying blend of meat and their signature sauce on a toasted bun. Platters provide a more substantial meal, allowing you to sample multiple meats and sides.
The Atmosphere: A Slice of Southern Charm in NYC
Stepping into Memphis King BBQ feels like stepping into a different world. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and distinctly Southern. The decor evokes a rustic, yet modern feel, blending seamlessly with the overall ambiance. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to offer recommendations or answer questions about the menu. This contributes significantly to the overall positive dining experience.
Customer Reviews: What Others Are Saying
Online reviews for Memphis King BBQ are generally positive, with many praising the quality of the meat and the authentic Memphis-style flavors. However, some reviews mention slightly longer wait times during peak hours, a common issue for popular restaurants in NYC. Here's a summary of common themes found in online reviews:
| Aspect | Positive Comments | Negative Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Quality | "Fall-off-the-bone tender," "perfectly smoked," "delicious" | "Slightly dry on occasion," "could use more smoke" |
| Sides | "Excellent coleslaw," "tasty mac and cheese" | "Some sides can be inconsistent" |
| Service | "Friendly staff," "helpful recommendations" | "Can be slow during busy periods" |
| Atmosphere | "Warm and inviting," "authentic Southern feel" | "Can get noisy" |
Pricing: Value for Your Money?
The pricing at Memphis King BBQ is in line with other high-quality barbecue restaurants in New York City. While it's not the cheapest option, the quality of the food and the overall dining experience justify the cost for many patrons.
Conclusion: Is Memphis King BBQ Worth the Hype?
Overall, Memphis King BBQ delivers on its promise of authentic Memphis-style barbecue in New York City. The high-quality meats, flavorful sides, and welcoming atmosphere make it a worthwhile destination for barbecue lovers. While wait times can be an issue, the exceptional food and service generally outweigh any minor inconveniences. If you're craving a taste of the South in the heart of Manhattan, Memphis King BBQ is definitely worth checking out. Just remember to factor in potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
