Shotgun Willie's BBQ
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The customer service at this establishment was essentially top of the line. Someone very important to me and I were stopping for a quick lunch bite while we were on a roadtrip. I did not anticipate the food to be so fast...but it was serve instantly as we got there. My boyfriend got pork and I ate a vegetarian option to stay healthy since the chicken I wanted was just too big for my portion preferences. And as someone who eats vegetarian from time to time...this did not bother me. My favorite parts were the beans and the mashed potatoes along with the five star customer service. We will be back in the future as they were playing my favorite Scooby doo show and the temperature was ideal.
Yesterday... J (my son): "Why did you hold up the line at Shotgun Willie's?" PAUSE! Do I seem like the type of dude that would hold up the line? I got my faults, vices, mannerisms, OCDs, lack of patience, and all that, but.... Wait a second. I got a lot (a ton) of people reading these reviews now but many readers are just people looking to see if this place is good. It's not about me, is it? I guess I should add narcissistic to my list above. I'm actually not at all. But we'll roll with it. If it makes one or two people feel better. One Week Ago... J ordered brisket with two sides and Texas toast. He told me to get the brisket. But I was thinking logically at the time and thought I could just taste his brisket while I got ribs. I got ribs because if you scroll down on the reviews, some dude from Canada said it was the best ribs he ever had. Maybe he had only tasted Canadian Ribs. I actually don't know if he's from Canada. I just wanted to say he was from Canada. But he did leave a review. As I approached the dude (and former drummer) behind the counter, I inquired about a half-and-half plate--as in 1/4 lb and 1/4 lb. Instead of 1/2 lb of brisket, ribs, or smoked chicken. I know this is a famous place with Michelin mentioning but I had never seen a BBQ place with no half-and-half. This inquiry led to him explaining what he could and couldn't do with half-and-half. I was only following at about 36% of what he said, which made me feel like I was back in 8th Grade Spanish class and the teacher said, "Cómo estuvo tu semana?" I stared back at him as if I knew what he was saying and nodded my head and played it off with: "Nah. I'll just get the ribs then. Thanks though!" So, did I hold up the line? Maybe but it wasn't intentional. As for the brisket and ribs (and other food items).... The brisket was superb. The ribs were good yet nothing amazing. The Mac 'n Cheese was very good and would probably be loved by most. The green beans were very wet. I like some things very wet but not green beans. As for the Texas Toast, it was just a big piece of white bread with no taste. The service and atmosphere were excellent. The price for two was $56. I recommend this place but not as a regular spot and for the experience. And only if you get the brisket. I don't know much about the smoked chicken because I didn't eat it. This was a cool spot for sure but our best meal when in Nashville was for $14 at a pizza place, which is the review just before this one.
I had a friend in town that looks for really well reviewed restaurants, and he wanted to come here since it's Michelin reviewed. We ordered one of the platters that came with brisket, sausage, ribs, bread, and 2 sides. For the sides, we got potatoes and green beans. The prices were a little high, but not astronomical. We didn't wait very long at all for the food. I'm usually not a brisket person, but theirs was delicious! It was so tender that it melted in your mouth. The seasoning was perfect with plenty of salt and just a little bit of spice. The sausage (especially the jalapeño cheddar) was super juicy and full of flavor. The ribs really fell short. They didn't fall of of the bone and they weren't very tender. I think they weren't cooked long enough (not raw but not "done"). Definitely get the green beans! They were delicious as well (not healthy - nothing here was healthy). For dessert I got the banana pudding, which was probably the best part. It was fresh, chilled to the perfect temp, and delicious. They didn't have hot sauce - that was a huge bummer. Also their BBQ sauce wasn't that great. The good thing is that the meat had so much flavor that you didn't really need the sauce.
Shotgun Willie's BBQ is located in Madison directly on Gallatin Pike a stones throw off of Briley Parkway and shares a small strip with Vega and Daddy's Dogs. If that isn't ringing a bell, the small strip they occupy sits at the front of the Eastside Bowl complex! This SGW is an upgraded and expanded location for the brand, who used to have a smaller spot just right up the road. The space is large, bigger than expected, and is one large open air space where you almost feel like you are dining in the back of the house. The line forms immediately to the right upon entry and takes you past a wall of BBQ and of course, Willie Nelson, themed decor. It's leads you right to the counter where they are freshly cutting the meats and scooping the sides as you order. The dining room features plenty of seating, and if the weather is good, then they have a large outdoor picnic area to enjoy. It's unconverted, hence the weather dependency. They do have a rule here and ask that you do not grab a table until you order and get your food. And I appreciate that! Now speaking of food, I have d ample a few things on the menu with my normal and favorite being the sliced brisket plate and the habanero cheddar sausage link. I appreciate the option of fatty or lean brisket, which you normally don't get...and I usually go lean, as it gets you more meat in my opinion. The sausage is great, a smokey essence with a perfect snap to the casing. You'd expect more heat, but the balance is nice. We have also gotten the pork shoulder sandwich and it's always tasty. They dust the meat with seasoning before tossing it on a bun, which is a nice touch. They have a solid selection of sides, and while they are all tasty, none really stand out as top tier bbq sides. The Mac n cheese, along with the green beans are usuals, and are both kind of one note in flavor. They aren't terrible by any means, but just okay. Pricing is in line with what you expect at local BBQ joints around Nashville. Lunch for two including drinks and dessert will run you around $50. SGW is a lunch spot, only open 11a - 3p, so if you are hungry, get in there early! Overall, Shotgun Willie's is a good spot that pulls a solid 3.5 stars for me. Not my favorite in town, but tasty and convenient when the meat cravings get the best of me!
So my sister is visiting town again. I asked her to get this world famous bbq for me. She actually lives down the street like 10 minutes away! When I visit it's going to be on a Saturday so that I can get a beef rib.Brisket sandwich is loaded I tried the delicious brisket sandwich and the delicious beef sausage. Best beef sausage I ever had from a bbq restaurant! The Mac and cheese is delicious also the sauce is good. My family members tried different entree's from here also This food is delicious! My bro and I watch Ant bbq channel on YouTube iykyk! The food here is delicious! Pull up and check them out if you are ever in the area! I tried this food for the first time today on 4-3-2026.
I Love BBQ! I've had it from Seattle, WA to Miami, FL! From Portland, ME to San Diego, CA and everywhere in between; I just love it. And, of course I have my favorite places which would take me 30 minutes to name them all. But the top three is easy: Green Street BBQ - Chicago, IL 12 Bones BBQ - Asheville, NC Shotgun Willie's BBQ - Nashville, TN Shotgun Willie's was today (for lunch) and immediately took a Top Three spot on my illustrious list of BBQ joints. Everything about Shotgun Willie's was great: The ambiance was fun, creative and very interesting The service was bright, witty and some of the most expert Q'ers I've ever seen The food was just sublime - the brisket we ordered had just the right amount of fat. The meat was tender as hell and the bark on the edges was addicting This was Texas BBQ at its best; in Tennessee? Go figure. The sides were ridiculously good as my potato salad and cole slaw was like a narcotic. I couldn't get enough of it. The seating was great and mostly communal and the restaurant itself was immaculate. The cutters / servers / cashiers were humorous and fun loving. What else can I say except having a Shotguns Willie BBQ lunch was the very best way to end this very fun golf trip!
Incredible brisket they slice it right in front of you and let you choose how lean or fatty you want it. Portions are very generous. My husband and I shared a plate and added the smoked half chicken, which they split for us. The sauce was solid, the seasoning had great spice, and the queso mac was comfort-food perfection with just a little kick. Paired with a Mexican Coke, it was the perfect lunch. Free and easy parking in their lot makes it even better. A really fantastic spot.
Absolutely some of the best bbq I've had in my life! Excellent bark and still so moist. We will definitely be back next time we're in Nashville.
I did a mini barbecue tour in Nashville. Shotgun Willie was my absolute favorite in terms of the baby back ribs. They are just beautiful and not only did they look good, they taste very good. I wasn't a huge fan of the sauce though as it was a bit runny for me. However the ribs are flavorful and stand up by themselves with no sauce. The sides were heaping and also very enjoyable compliments to the meat. The restaurant was decorated with nostalgia. This was also the only restaurant I went to with a formidable line and consistently so. Casual. Easy parking. Indoor seating. Please come and create your own adventure.
We're big fans of Texas brisket, and I'd heard Shotgun Willy's was the real deal -- and they did not disappoint! My son and I stopped by for lunch today. By the time we arrived, they were already sold out of the cowboy caviar, chicken, and ribs (a good sign, honestly). He ordered the brisket plate with queso mac and a jalapeño cornbread muffin, and I went with the brisket sandwich and dill pickle potato salad. We ate there to soak up the full experience, and everything was delicious. The brisket had a bold, flavorful crust and was melt-in-your-mouth tender -- not too fatty, just right. Honestly, it's the best brisket we've had outside of Texas, and even compared to our favorite Texas spot, it would be a serious contender.
The best Brisket in Nashville. The staff are super friendly and the sides are delicious, but their Brisket is the star of the show here with its perfect bark, excellent flavor, all while being perfectly moist and tender. I love that they measure the meat portions; 1/2 pound for a plate and 1/3 pound for a sandwich. You can get your Brisket sandwich slices or chopped. Both are delicious, but I prefer mine chopped. All the sides are homemade and tasty. The Green Beans and the Mac & Cheese are really special. There is lots of seating. I really hope they get their soda dispenser repaired soon. More than half the drinks were out of order, including all of the diet options. I highly recommend Shotgun Willie's BBQ!
I would give it a 3.5. The meats are great. Brisket was juicy and they ask if you want a fatty or more lean piece. Pulled pork was also good. Service was good as well nice people. The only bad, the sides. They just aren't good at all. Tried baked beans, potato salad and Mac and cheese. All of them are better at Walmart. If they improve those 5/5.
OMG. this place is amazing. Best BBQ I've ever had and #1 in Nashville. The meats were all spiced and cooked to perfection. Wait time is quick and they prepare it as you order. brisket was top tier. Ribs were fantastic. I highly HIGHLY recommend. Absolute 11/10 and will definitely be back!!!
4 years ago
3 years ago
BEST JALEPENO CHEDDAR SAUSAGE ON EARTH! You won't regret stopping here, don't be scared by the vape shop next store! This place deserves 5 stars, BBQ is phenomenal!! read more
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Stopped in for lunch...which is pretty much the only time you can eat here as their current hours of operation are 11-3 Tues-Sun. Was Super Bowl Sunday...several large pick-up orders went out the door while we sat and ate. They ran out of most of the meats soon after our order which made sense leading into their days off. I've had BBQ all over the country. My typical order consists of ribs, sausage, and sometimes a 3rd meat. Ribs and brisket are what set most BBQ joints apart. Make them amazing and people line up---if not, you're lumped in with the "it's good, but there's better" crowd. Unfortunately this was the latter. My ribs were tough. They needed more smoking time IMO to loosen things up and get that nice bite. The sausage link was good, well spiced and solid smoke flavor. My friend got the brisket. He liked the taste, but found several bites to be on the dry side. To be honest the mac n cheese side was the highlight of the meal. Real good. The green beans with brisket was pretty good too. Prices were on the high-side, but mostly on par with typical BBQ--be mindful their bulk meat prices are shown per 1/2 pound. It's understandable with the high costs of meats these days though, so it's hard to fault the business for that. Overall I'd give Shotgun Willie's another chance one day. Nice people working there for sure. Friendly and pleasant. read more
6 years ago
As an East Nashville resident I try to support my local businesses, but Shotgun Willie's but problem, because it's so good, I eat there way too often and putting on weight. Honestly, my husband and I have eaten BBQ in Austin, Dallas, Kansas City and Memphis. I'm not going to say at ALL that I'm a BBQ expert. I'm not. But what this little gem in my neighborhood offers real Texas BBQ, is a real meat treat. Every time we walk in, the staff says hello while the sweet 'smokey' air carries through the air. Bill, the owner, has been there trimming the brisket every time I've gone in and says "Oh hey, I remember you guys, Brisket and sausage right?" YES!, I'm always impressed when someone can remember an order despite me only going there 3-4 times. The sides are amazing too. Queso mac but really my favorite and the tangy vinegar coleslaw. With each plate, it comes with 2 sides. They have ribs, chicken (both I haven't tried yet but I'll update once I do) but I can't go in there and not get the Brisket. It's melt in your mouth flavor. It stays with you. It makes you sleepy. All the things good BBQ should do. TIP1: Once they run out of food, they close up. Brisket goes fast! Get there early to ensure your meal - Wednesdays & Thursdays right now seem to be not a problem, Friday, Sat & Sunday we've gotten there too late - SO GO EARLY! TIP2: Parking is available on the side of the building. TIP3: Seating is a bit limited, but take away has not been a problem. Nice packaging that kept food fresh. read more
2 years ago
6 years ago
Real Texas BBQ. I came on opening day and there was a line down the street. I was very impressed at how the staff took our safety during the Corona lockdown with cleaning the laminated menus between guests, having a hand sanitizer station, the employees in masks and every guest I saw there had a mask on. I got there a little later in the day and they were out of a couple of items, but that is the price you pay for having quality fresh food. They open at 11AM and stay open until they sell out. We ended up each getting the pulled pork sandwich, one with potato salad and the other with the beans. The meat was amazing and the sides were great. I really liked the sauce that came with it too. I can't wait to go back and try more stuff. read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
BEST bbq we've ever had! The brisket is the best we've ever had, melts in your mouth and so flavorful. Greta pulled pork and homemade sides-potato salad, green beans, baked beans, jalapeño cornbread, and coleslaw. Get there early because they sell out pretty much daily. read more
5 years ago
4 years ago
Stopped here on the way to Florida coming from the Chicago area. This place was great! Great food; sides are great and the staff are extremely nice and friendly. I am going to try to stop on my way back! read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
Ate here for lunch today. Ordered the brisket sandwich. Brisket was flavorful and juicy. Really cool restaurant. Staff were super friendly and place was super clean. Highly recommend eating here if you're craving BBQ. Only negative is there is not much seating inside, so if it's busy you're taking it to go almost guaranteed. read more
4 years ago
PHENOMENAL! true bbq made in the smoker out back. Had so much flavor and not dry.. at all!! Corn bread was a little dry, but loved the jalapeño in it. Got the check and a roll on the side to make a sandwich. GREAT hidden gem in nashville!!! read more
5 years ago
Best Hawaiana BBQ around. You know what they say. If you're gonna play in Hawaii you gotta have a fiddle in the band. Was sold out of Jap/cheese sausage read more
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I've been searching for years in nashville for real Texas style brisket and this place nailed it. $18 for half pound and 2 sides, I got the lean cut of the brisket and it was tremendous. All slices were clappers and passed the pull test. I'm not a fan of lean cuts as opposed to fatty cuts or burnt ends but damn was the brisket good. I didn't even use the bbq sauce on the meat because it was so flavorful. But I did use the sauce on the bread they gave me and it was crazy flavorful, Nothing but sweet heat on it. If you are a fan of Texas style bbq this is the only place in nashville to get it. read more
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We're not from around here but several locals recommended Shotgun Willie's and we're so glad they did. The best BBQ we've ever had - incredibly tender and flavorful. Delicious sides, too - especially the Mac and cheese and potato salad. Also the employees were just the nicest. read more
BEST TEXAS STYLE BBQ EVER. Seriously. This is one of my favorite places to eat in Nashville, period. The food, the people, and the atmosphere is all amazing. I cannot eat brisket anywhere else because I am spoiled here. I think it is the best I have ever had. My boyfriend always gets the brisket so I alternate between getting the sausage and the ribs and both are excellent. I've had their chicken as well to say I've had it, but the ribs, brisket, and sausage are the stars for me! The queso Mac may be my favorite Mac and cheese I have ever eaten and I'm telling you that you can't go in there and not get it! I also enjoy their potato salad, it's got big chunks of pickle in it which gives it a good texture. One of my favorite parts of the meal is their sauce, I love a good vinegar bbq sauce and I think theirs is the best! I look forward to coming here every single time! read more
4 years ago
This is the best BBQ I've had in the South east. It is true Texas style BBQ with perfectly smoked brisket. Ribs were really juicy and tender. Sides were all great. My only regret is I couldn't eat more. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
Finally! It seems like we've been waiting forever to both have a day off at the same time and drive up to East Nashville and check out SGW! The anticipation was worthy! It's the closest thing we've got to true TX BBQ in Nashville, and it doesn't disappoint. The brisket was solid but the jalapeño hot links took center stage for us. The green beans were outstanding as well. We enjoyed the banana pudding although our preference is for more pudding and less banana (as in why do we actually need banana in the banana reminiscent pudding?) this is banana forward pudding. Note that the Shiners are 24oz and we should have shared. But that's our bad. read more
More info about Shotgun Willie's BBQ
1500 Gallatin Pike S
Ste 104
Madison, TN 37115
Directions
(615) 942-9188
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https://sgwbbq.com
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Do they take Reservations?
No reservations needed but they do close at 3 PM first come first serve
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