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    Shotgun Willie's BBQ

    4.7 (256 reviews)
    Closed • Closed
    Updated 3 months ago

    Shotgun Willie's BBQ Photos

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    SHOTGUN WILLIE'S BBQ ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Outdoor seating

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    Table and sign.
    Hillary D.

    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.

    Ribs and stuff.
    Dan M.

    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.

    Delicious banana pudding
    Cody H.

    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.

    Doug G.

    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!

    Brisket Sandwich with Mac and Cheese and 2 Beef Sausage and Sauce.
    Ahmad W.

    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.

    Shotguns Menu
    Sidney Z.

    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!

    Courtnie C.

    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.

    Brisket, Mac&Cheese, and Cornbread.
    Isaiah R.

    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.

    Leeza D.

    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.

    Brisket plate, side of queso mac and jalapeño cornbread muffin
    Rachelle H.

    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.

    Lots of seating indoors
    Jeff T.

    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!

    Brisket

    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.

    Inside
    Rebecca Y.

    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!!!

    TX Trinity platter with half rack ribs, links, brisket, hominy green chile casserole, green beans, and mac and cheese. Easily feeds 3-4!

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    5 years ago

    Best BBQ in Nashville. Loved the brisket, bbq sauce, mac n cheese and baked beans. My regular BBQ place.

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    5 years ago

    Best BBQ I've had outside of central TX. I'm from Austin and this brisket really hits the spot

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    5 years ago

    All of the food here is amazing, but the brisket is by far the best I've had. Don't forget the bourbon banana pudding to finish it off.

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

    Great food, great service! One of the best bbq joints in town! An opinion from a born and raised local.

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    6 years ago

    We love their brisket! To-go ordering is a breeze and the restaurant feels really safe during the covid era.

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    6 years ago

    Legit TX BBQ with sides that hold up to the meats. Pumped I can get my brisket fix. All I need is a Lone Star!

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    Page 7 of 7

    Shotgun Willie's BBQ Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Shotgun Willie's BBQ

    Do they take Reservations?

    No reservations needed but they do close at 3 PM first come first serve

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    Peg Leg Porker

    4.3(3.9k reviews)
    6.8 mi•The Gulch, Downtown
    •$$

    Ribs were solid…read more Pulled pork - nothing special Mac and cheese - really good flavor, a touch watery? Baked beans - solid Potato salad - I'd get it again Coleslaw - mid Pork rinds - I'd get them again, kids loved them. Pimento cheese - decent but not super special. Great spot for bbq but was expecting really amazing as the "best bbq in Nashville " and it was just "pretty solid" spot, I'll still give it a 5 stars though. If I came back I'd buy a full rack of ribs with baked beans, potato salad and Mac.

    For a Thursday this place was packed! For me, this place was better than Martins…read more Inside is pretty big with a lot of tables. They have outdoor seating as well but its too hot today for all that nonsense. Lol. You order your food inside then pick a table. It is really affordable bbq in Nashville. I feel like in California youd be paying double unless you go on certain days for specials. I got half rack of ribs and deep fried ribs with potatoe salad and cole slaw. I also got a banana pudding. Now, for the ribs. I thought it was a big portion for 20$ and it comes with 2 sides. The rub on these ribs was pretty good but i found that its a bit dry. You get the sauce on the counters or near the soda machines. I got their sauce that was HOT by the cashier. This sauce had 0 spice, but it tasted excellent. For sure, the BBQ sauce here is better than Martins. The fried ribs had some sort of creamy white sauce lightly lathered onto the ribs. I actually enjoyed these. For me, this day, i liked the Cole slaw the best. The banana pudding was also good. I think this place hit me the most for Nashville. Its a good vibe with "better than most" food. Id come again for sure.

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    Edley's Bar-B-Que

    Edley's Bar-B-Que

    4.4(417 reviews)
    5.8 mi•Donelson
    •$$

    Stopped here on our way out of town. We were in TN for just a couple days and hadn't had BBQ yet,…read morewhich needed to be resolved. Food was phenomenal. I had the brisket and rib combo platter with Mac & cheese, and grits casserole. Everything was terrific, I loved every bite. Service is up at the counter, and they give you a number and deliver to your table. Nice folks all around working here. They also do something I absolutely LOVE that most bbq places do not - ask if you want fatty or lean brisket. I have never been asked this before, I always have to ask for fatty brisket myself. Place inside looks how a bbq joint should - lots of wood, lots of TVs, and lots of tables. If you're heading out of town it's only like 8 minutes from the airport, perfect place to stop.

    I gotta say.... I am way more impressed than I thought I would be when I first heard we were coming…read morehere. I am glad I was "brought" here because I may not have ever coon my own. I had heard of Edley's but had never seen one before. I do love BBQ so I am always down for some new versions of smoked meats I haven't tried. I might be a Nashville BBQ hater at heart, but I am trying to broaden my horizons and give people chances. This one is pretty damn good. I put them to the real test with a brisket plate on my first visit. They have better brisket than I can find in Memphis unfortunately. The trim was unique and I do not care for sauce on brisket (my fault for not reading), but this was some good BBQ. It's a typical setup for BBQ. You order at the counter, grab your drinks, find a table, and wait for the feast to arrive. They have all of the usual suspects. Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, burnt ends, turkey, and they have another menu with something they call "Nashville Style BBQ". I bet it's spicy, what ya wanna bet? I'll have to try that next time. I'll come back. I am curious now. I wonder if their sausage is any good. I guess I have to know now. See you next time, Edley's. '26 - 110

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    Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint - Ribs, pulled pork, brisket, sausage, and more

    Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint

    4.1(3.7k reviews)
    6.3 mi•Downtown
    •$$

    First time in Nashville so definitely had to try their BBQ. Saw rave reviews for Martins so was…read moresuper exited to try! They had open seating and there was a decent line but moved very quickly. Food also came out fast as well! Got the brisket sandwich with hush puppies and bake beans. The brisket was so tender! It paired well with their Jack Creek sauce which had nice kick and sweet and sour taste. The hush puppies are a must! They were had a nice crunchy exterior with a pillowy soft inside. I appreciated that they werent too sweet as well! Baked beans were also solid. It came with a decent amount of bacon in it! Definitely will be back when I'm back in Nashville. And excited tol try something else on the menu!

    I feel sad to say this but I did not enjoy any of the food here. This place gets so busy and its…read moreso popular. I see many many people just walking by to take a picture of the sign! I love the decor in the inside. They have a live band upstairs. The line to order is awesomely place with rubs and bottles of sauce. Now, back to the food. The brisket is tooooooo soft. It breaks apart just sticking a fork in it. The ribs are too dry and the bbq sauce didnt hit. The fish fry just falls apart. I really didn't enjoy the food but I really enjoyed the atmosphere. I wouldn't come again as I feel maybe other spots could be better.

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    Caney Fork River Valley Grille - Fritters - so yummy!!

    Caney Fork River Valley Grille

    3.5(935 reviews)
    2.1 mi•Donelson
    •$$

    In town for work so I walked over for dinner. Not a glitz…read moreand glam place but nice people and good food. I had a new york strip and fries with Oakra. It was cooked nicely and hot. I enjoyed it. A local man made small talk from the next table. Broke up the silence.

    Potential, maybe…read more Execution, not even close. Saturday at 5. We walk into a crowded lobby with a 20 minute wait. NBD, it's Saturday. It gave us time to peruse the menu. The menu was extremely protein heavy. This really isn't the place for a vegetarian. Not sure it's even the place for anyone watching their diet. Lots of meat, lots of fried, lots of carbs. Our server came by shortly after we were seated. Overall, she did a good job considering the number of tables she had. I was intrigued by the crawfish cakes. Our server dissuaded me from these. I asked about the cod which she heartily endorsed. I ordered the cod, okra and baked potato. The plate also came with fries and hush puppies. My husband ordered the chopped steak, cowboy potatoes and a side salad. Our server brought a basket of corn fritters. While they looked like hush puppies covered in powdered sugar, they tasted like funnel cakes. By far the best part of the meal. My cod was far more breading than fish. I peeled the breading off to find not much more fish than is in a fish stick. The okra was food service quality. Skip it. The fries were soggy. The hush puppies were completely flavorless.The saving grace of the meal was the baker. Honestly, save some calories, save some money - don't order the cod. Since I was still a little enamored by the crawfish cakes, my husband ordered one as an addition to his meal. Our server was absolutely right, skip it. I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the plating. The cake was about 3 inches wide. Served in the middle of a large dinner plate. We both found it amusing. My husband said his chopped steak was ok. The highlight being the mushrooms and onions topping the slab of hamburger. Likewise, the onions were the best part of the cowboy potatoes. The onion was not the highlight of the side salad. In this case, there were no highlights. The decor was DIY Bass Pro Shop. There is an attached ice cream shop if you want dessert. Parking was ample and service pretty good. Would we go back? No. Even if every other restaurant in town were packed? No. I'd probably just settle for a granola bar.

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    Shotgun Willie's BBQ - bbq - Updated September 2026

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