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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.
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 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.
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.
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!
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!!!
2 years ago
Outstanding spot in Nashville, and worth the drive outside of the city. Perfect flavor, bark, smoke ring, etc. it just scratched the itch of watching all these competition bbq shows on Netflix. Consider this an investment in your taste buds and soul! read more
2 years ago
Yuck!!!! I drove 20 minutes here in a packed U-Haul just to taste the nastiest hardest tasteless ribs I've ever had in my life. I didn't even eat them. All they gave me extra. Customer service was very, very great. Very friendly staff but Lord, the food is so underwhelming I'm so upset $50 and I gotta go find somewhere else to freaking eat. Thanks Nashville. This is the best barbecue in town yeah right read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Shotgun Willie's is the best BBQ in Nashville. We tried a few places and can say beyond a doubt this was the most flavorful juicy brisket we had in town. I'm partial to Texas BBQ, and this exceeded expectations. Not only is the food amazing, but the staff was so sweet and gave us great recommendations for other places to try in the area. Thank you Phil, Belle, and Joanna! Hope to see y'all soon on another trip to Nashville read more
2 years ago
Omg.. visiting Nashville and ate here 3 times the food is that good. Had pulled pork twice and brisket sandwich . Deserts are phenomenal too and the people are amazing and super helpful read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
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Bill L.
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2 years ago
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I'm from San Antonio Tx where folks know what BBQ is supposed to taste like. I have found my home away from home. Great Brisket, great Sausage, ribs and chicken. Make sure to try the Queso Mac and cheese. The green beans are amazing. The place inside looks like an old smokehouse in Texas with the memorabilia. Just a comfy spot for a great lunch. But get there early they fun out of the great food fast. The best staff also, they are accommodating and great people to talk to. I'm a fan for life! read more
When visiting the Nashville area this is a must for me. The Jalapeño infused link is to die for. The chicken is outstanding as well. Fantastic selection of sides. Always greeted by the owner and the rest of the staff is outgoing and friendly. Highly recommend. read more
6 years ago
4.5 stars AHHH MAAAZZZZE IINNNGG Texas style Barbeque! Loved the brisket and sausage. LOVED! Mac n cheese was very good and interesting with chili's in it! The pickled potato salad was tasty. Thing I liked the least was the coleslaw. I will ABSOLUTELY be back! This is my new go-to barbeque! Small inside. No eat in right now. They do have outdoor tables set up. read more
2 years ago
Beautiful freshly opened location, very clean and friendly staff! The chicken was delicious; flavorful, juicy and meat just fell off the bone. Didn't even need sauce but the yummy bbq sauce elevated it. Omg the mac y queso is a must try. Cornbread has amazing texture and flavor is there. I was born in and spent a majority of my childhood in San Antonio, TX and this is precisely what I remember. The beans are delicious as well. Pickled onions & pickles have great flavor!! The brisket is also worth coming back again for! It's a bit on the more expensive side but most bbq in Nashville is nowadays. In my opinion, worth the high price. My new bbq spot for sure. My only feedback would be that the cole slaw was a bit dry and under-seasoned but that's my personal opinion & taste. Please keep up the good work!! read more
Its a good sign when theres a line. TX BBQ in TN does it again for the win. No frills building, friendly staff and good food. The standouts were the ribs and the sausage. The brisket was decent, I'd go back for sure. read more
2 years ago
Stopped here about 2 on a weekday afternoon. Cool Vibe, Friendly Folks as you order at the counter. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, chose the Potato Salad as my side, came with pickled onions and dill pickles. DELICIOUS and Priced Right! Easy parking, outdoor dining going in at this writing..No Frills good old BBQ Joint read more
2 years ago
1 year ago
3 years ago
Easily some of the best BBQ I've ever had! Visiting Nashville for Christmas and saw this place recommended on a few Reddit threads; I'm so glad I went by before they closed for their holiday break. Wonderful service and atmosphere, I can understand why there was a line out the door when we arrived. Regretted not grabbing some rubs and BBQ sauce before we left, so a friend is mailing some down to South FL. 10/10, I looking forward to returning next time I'm in Tennessee! read more
3 years ago
What a total gem on the east side! This is hands down the best BBQ I have had in Nashville. The ribs are so tender but still have a bite to them and the brisket is to die for! Highly recommend getting the potato salad and Mac and cheese for the sides! Not only is the food absolutely delicious, the staff are so wonderful and sweet. They welcome you from the moment you walk in till you leave! I would definitely try to get there early and be ready to possibly sit outside at their picnic tables because this is a popular joint but totally worth it! read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
Holy heck this is delicious. Just moved to town and have been looking for our bbq place and this is it. read more
2 years ago
Lived up to and exceeded it 4.5 stars. Great place, super staff, but the food, great place to represent TN!! read more
5 years ago
Amazing BBQ place in East Nashville Texas style and finger licking good Done right and the side choices are great Thank you Chef Bill and Team read more
3 years ago
2 years ago
3 years ago
Good bbq. Workers making food were very nice! The green beans tasted like homemade. The ribs weren't my favorite but still good. Brisket was good but a bit fatty for my liking. The smoked chicken was great!! By far my favorite there. My mom had the pulled pork and it looked amazing although I didn't get to try. The jalapeño corn bread was a bit on dry side and I didn't taste any jalapeño! Tony, the worker was very friendly and helpful. He kept the restaurant clean and neat. We must have just beat the lunch rush in. They have a nice steady flow of customers. read more
3 years ago
Delicious food and very kind people! My sister and I are visiting from new york city and the people working here were so nice in helping us out with the menu. This is a must visit! The BBQ was the best we had in and around Nashville. The brisket and pulled pork were amazing. read more
3 years ago
I've had the pleasure of dining at some of the best BBQ joints in Texas, so when a local place stakes the claim "Real Texas BBQ" I'm ready to eat. You have the option to dine outdoors or in the restaurant. The place is decorated with "Texas style" memorabilia and the "cutter" who took my order was friendly and accommodating. I selected the Brisket Plate and two sides choosing the Poppy seed Slaw, Queso y Mac, and added a slab of cornbread. The brisket was a bit dry, especially towards the ends of the cut and the seasoning did nothing for the meat. Not sure what wood this meat was smoked over but I sure couldn't tell by any hint of smoke flavor. I'm not a fan of vinegar based BBQ sauces but they offer a mild and hot version. The poppy seed slaw was interesting but the poppy seed overwhelmed the dish and I wasn't a fan. The slab of cornbread was cold and a bit dry, but the Queso y Mac is delicious with nice jalapeno flavors. Couple mediocre BBQ with a $26 tab (dinner, cornbread, and a beer) and I won't be a repeat visitor. If I were to compare this place to "real" Texas BBQ joints, this place would not be a contender. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
Really good good and super friendly. Very small place and if the run out of something they run out which makes it that much more exciting, it's like you scored big time. Infact as we were in line the guy came out and crossed out the chicken. The smoker is in the back chugging away in a propane tank which makes it better. Would I go back? Yep read more
The food here was just ok. The brisket was quite tender and juicy. There was very little fat on the brisket. It was very fresh. The sides for me were trash. They just lacked flavor. Jalapeño sausage was indeed spicy for $5. The food was overpriced just in general, especially with the small scoops of sides. I did enjoy the banana pudding for five dollars that is not featured here. It wasn't too sweet and was made fresh that day. The service was quick and easy and the staff were very friendly. This is my second time eating here. For overall barbecue, I think I will just stick with Jack's BBQ on Trinity Lane. read more
4 years ago
Shotgun Willie's BBQ boasts about Texas style bbq & with good reason - they can back it up!! Waited the line on a Sunday & was glad that I did! Brisket was tender & juicy, ribs were flavorful. Def worth a stop, or a drive, if you're in the Nashville/Opryland area 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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Shotgun Willie's BBQ - bbq - Updated September 2026
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