Fabulous food. Authentic Memphis flavor--from a girl who grew up there!! So glad The Memphis King is in Schenectady. read more

It's nice to find yet another BBQ joint that has great smoked meats of high quality. The family run business is legit and have done their homework on getting the most flavor into the meat. What is not there in atmosphere is more than made up with great food at a good price. read more

This is a great BBQ spot. Thank you for the delicious food!

Very underrepresented bbq spot. The couple that operates Memphis King is highly passionate about bbq, and executes it wonderfully. They let us try some killer sauces on the house (all of which were unique and delicious), and overall provided excellent service. Genuine five star place. read more

It's dangerous to arrive at a BBQ joint when you've just stuffed yourself to capacity at brunch. But sometimes, you have to roll with the punches. This was the state I found myself in when I arrived at The Memphis King on Sunday afternoon. My plan was to just have a few nibbles of their meets and to get a better sense of the place. That plan flew out the window after I took my first taste of brisket. Man, there is not much better than a fatty piece of brisket that has been properly cooked so the fat is succulent and buttery. This was what I found in my slices of the stuff at The Memphis King. Tender, full of flavor, and deeply smokey, this is just my kind of BBQ brisket. It doesn't need sauce, but it also pairs nicely with the house and hot varieties. On my visit, the pulled pork failed to light me up, but the kiddo loved it. I did appreciate the nice chunks of bark that were included in my portion. However, I like my pulled pork to have a bit more fat in it. I'll get back there to try the ribs, chicken and a few more of the sides. The style of creamy coleslaw with its large pieces of cabbage didn't wow me. And I can't say that i"ll be getting the macaroni and cheese again. But on this visit the restaurant was out of beans and greens, so I was out of luck. Next time. And there will most certainly be a next time. However, I may wait until the weather cools off a bit, because in the heat of a June afternoon, the fans inside still left me sweating as I ate. And regrettably there is no shade at the picnic tables outside. read more

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It took all week to get in here when they were open, and that's only because I got out at lunchtime today. They aren't kidding about running out, a few customers after me ordered and then the sold out signs went up. To be fair, its a father & son run joint, and pops was on vacation which cut on manpower to be ready. It was nice to hear pops is from Memphis, so that made my expectations higher. For bbq in general, it was good....as far as Memphis bbq though, it wasn't one of the best. The pulled pork didn't taste like much rub was on it. I'm wondering if they even use a spice rub? The slaw on it wasn't runny, so that's a big plus. With the mustard in it, it was an interesting taste. I also don't think there was nearly enough sauce to match the amount of meat they give you, so it's hard for me to judge how good the sauce could be. The bread used was good, which I believe I overheard that it comes from a local bakery. I'm pretty picky about my beans, but the pork and beans was extremely tasty. Not sure what they do to it, but keep it up. I wish I could've tried the ribs. That would be a true test. Perhaps if I'm ever in Schenectady again I will get it. Overall I liked it and got seriously full, so much so I couldn't even finish the beans or bread from sandwich. I do recommend this place, but if you aren't there close to opening, call in your order so you can gaurantee you'll get an order. It seems everyone else does. read more

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Every time I crave bbq, this is my go-to. Very authentic. Now I need to go order .....

Great brisket and everything they make!!Heard about this place from a friend who loves it!!

The best bbq in the area. The ribs and pulled pork have a very heavy smoke taste and the homemade sauces compliment it well. The unsuspecting treasure however is the popcorn chicken. Small chunks of real chicken breast with a crispy flavorful batter. You will dream about it after. The macaroni salad is one of my favorites and the Mac & cheese is pretty good too. Brandon is always very welcoming. I just wish they were open later hours or on Sunday because they often sell out early and it's tough to get over there during the week, so Saturday lunch is the only good time for me. read more

The bomb.com!!!! It's a hit!!! It's hands down smacking ya Ma!! REALLY!!!!! New to the town just working, tried it and had them cater my crew! 5 stars!!! read more

After driving by Memphis King many times, I finally had a chance to stop in after hearing good things about them. We were greeted when we walked in, I said it was our first time, so we were given menus to peruse. It was quite busy for mid-afternoon on a Saturday, which I always take as a good sign. When it was time to order, I said that my wife and son are both vegetarians, so I wanted to make sure that none of the sides had "hidden" meat (e.g. chicken broth, lard, etc.) The man I spoke to went through all of the items that were vegetarian friendly, and even said that one of his staff is a vegetarian, so I took that as another good sign. I, however, and not a vegetarian, so I had the brisket with baked beans and cornbread. My wife and son got mac and cheese, mac salad, corn bread and lemonade. Everything was outstanding! When the brisket arrived they had forgotten the sauces, but I ate some anyway and it was fantastic just as it is. The sauces came out right after (house and sweet heat) and they were both delicious. The baked beans (with bits of meat in them) were the best I've ever had (sorry grandma!). My wife and son raved about the mac and cheese and the mac salad as well. The cornbread was top notch. I got an order of peach cobbler to go and I was very happy with that when I got home. Overall I couldn't be happier with my experience at Memphis King. My son, who attends Union College, plans to bring his friends there as well, which I'm sure they will find amusing (but delicious). read more

Updated Review: 2+ years later and this is still my FAVORITE BBQ Restaurant. It's to the point where I recommend this place to any and everyone if food is the discussion. It is simply a must try experience. They've recently reintroduced the popcorn chicken, which is cut from fresh chicken and breaded with love and care. The flavor is amazing, and the crunch just perfect. I would definitely give these a shot! They've become so busy now that I would also suggest calling ahead to ensure that they don't sell out on you. Honestly, that is what I love most about these guys: fresh ingredients. You know that they cook what they have, and sell out when it's gone. So call ahead... you won't have to wait for long, and you'll be guaranteed that they have what you want. Lastly, the mac n cheese....Please do yourself a favor and make sure you get this as one of your sides. Never in my life have I tasted Mac like this, no lie..it is to die for. Brandon and his father have done a great job with this establishment, a great addition to Schenectady! read more

A big thank you to 518 Foodies and Memphis King for preparing over 150 pounds of chicken and potatoes for Kingsway Arms Nursing Center workers during such a tough time! The food was delicious- moist and the BBQ sauce authentic. read more

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If you're looking for the BEST BBQ in the northeast, go here! I have been looking for a real BBQ restaurant for a long time- I ordered a fried chicken sandwich & house seasoned fries with their original dipping sauce. I went last week (during covid) - placed my order via phone & when the gentleman delivered the food to my car, it smelled so good that I had to take a bite before pulling away. It was sooo good that I had to take another bite...& then another. I sat in front of the restaurant & devoured the entire meal! It was super on every level- the chicken was fried perfectly, it was tender, moist & a portion enough to feed 3 people (not joking!). The seasoned fries were very good & the original dipping sauce was fantastic wThe homemade coleslaw was outstanding! Perfectly seasoned & a great compliment to the fried chicken sandwich. If the great taste & good price isn't enough, this father & 2 sons team also helped the local community during the pandemic & fed many people. Wishing them many years of continued success! I will be back!!! read more

The Memphis King Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Schenectady, New York

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What a great 1st time experience!! My husband wanted me to make a rack of ribs and the local stores haven't had anything that looked "great" and although I love to cook, I consider delivery a real treat, and this definitely is! First, we pre ordered with the idea that we would have it for when we wanted it and we didn't want to have them sell out. Don't regret that at all!! We were so interested in getting our order we basically made us want it the minute it got here. I always give a good tip, hoping my delivery drivers appreciate it. And with the tip, tax and the order, we were getting (and expecting) $70 worth of food. We got a little nervous when the driver (Melio btw - locally owned delivery business from Latham, NY) arrived with what looked like a plastic shopping bag that seemed less than 1/2 food. When we started to unload it my husband started laughing so I ran to grab my camera to take photos, yes... you're seeing it right, they are super eco-friendly. The hot meats were wrapped in a tight well compacted section of aluminum foil, keeping the meat nice and hot, with no leakage. The hot side was in high grade (reusable) deli-like containers and the cold side was the lesser grade that was recyclable. We ordered a small order (1/4lb) of brisket (to try it in case it wasn't "good") with a side of hot BBQ sauce, a full rack of pork ribs (12-13 ribs) with a side of Kings BBQ sauce, an 8oz side of coleslaw and an 8oz side of Mac and cheese. All I can say is OH MY GOODNESS, it is AMAZING! The 8oz containers were the perfect size to share with 2, or even with 3 people. The Mac and cheese was homemade. It had a good about of garlic flavoring in it, not too much but definitely more noticeable than most homemade versions. The coleslaw... simply amazing. The cabbage and carrots were fresh and crisp, and the sauce was light, not heave or over sugared or ladened with oily ingredients. It was clean good eats! Now let's talk meats! My husband lives brisket. I've only had really bad experiences with any brisket I've tried. So I took the smallest piece to "try". It was delectable!! Tender, moist, not super fatty, lightly smoky flavor and slow cooked to perfection! Having the sauce on the side is perfect and helps with not adding additional calories or unwanted over saturation to your beef bbq. But, I still like pork so much better than bbq beef. So it was time to move onto the ribs. Holy wow! They were probably the best bbq ribs I've ever had (and I grew up near the original Dinosaur BBQ, and had their competitors, Limp Lizard (central NY), and even Sticky Fingers in the western region of NY). Hands down, really freaking amazing. The meat fell right off the bone! And the Kings BBQ sauce is definable one of the best sauces I've tasted. I had 4 ribs and it was more than enough food (and is their actual per person serving size). It genuinely was a great BBQ meal, very well done! My husband has brisket for a sandwich tomorrow and we have enough ribs for another meal! Thank you for a good experience because as of late, other delivery food we've received has just been meh . Hats off to the best slow cooked smoked meats that I've found! It is without reservation, we recommend Memphis BBQ! read more

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Hole in the wall place run by very friendly son and father. Son told me everything is all homemade, all sides, cornbread muffins, sauces etc. Everything is tasty, fresh and moderately priced. Smoked chicken had a subtle smokey flavor, fairly moist and tender. However nothing spectacular in my opinion. 2 long picnic type tables to sit with others. Encourages people to call ahead to order. When he runs out of food , he just closes shop. Hubby had the pulled chicken sandwich that comes with coleslaw on it. Pay $1.00 extra if you want it on the side. All meats are pulled, basically coarse chopped and not shredded. Coleslaw is coarse cut in a runny tangy mayo mustard dressing. Cornbread muffin okay. I had the pulled chicken on a plate, very tasty. Nice to see he had a Alabama white bbq sauce among his sauces, which one hardly ever finds. I also like that one could order a side of scrambled eggs or to add it to a sandwich. Every additional topping cost extra whether lettuce , tomato, etc So overall an interesting place for Southern style bbq in the city of Schenectady Place was busy at normal lunchtime hours. I would go back to try the beef brisket and some other sides . read more

The Memphis King Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Schenectady, New York

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Awesome bbq, sides, cookies. Everything. I was surprised finding bbq this good around here. If you're around you gotta try it. And don't forgot the desserts and cookies. read more

This is serious bbq in a very unassuming location. I got the burnt ends meal and was absolutely delighted with the customer service from the two women at the register. The food was some of the best bbq I've had in this area and would definitely recommend. The one knock I do have is the amount of yelling that happens in the back. When I was there the phone was answered and I heard a shout of "no orders after 6:30" followed by an extremely loud "only a dozen ribs left..." I'm sure there is a way to communicate with the counter staff that doesn't involve screaming. read more

Not only is it top notch BBQ, but when you walk in, you are family. Hardworking, down to Earth, and carrying on a BBQ tradition that's worth the trip. May want to call ahead if you don't have the time to wait a few minutes, they get busy for good reason! Proud as a resident of Schenectady to have them nearby! read more

The food here is fresh, so dam good! They are cheap with portions. They are very talkative and friendly. They are a no waist place. They sell out daily. My only complaint it get there early or order early as they see out fast. Definitely the best in the 518 area code. I highly recommend this place. read more

AMAZING food, every single time! I would eat here once a week if I could give it a try!

Found this place about a year ago. I've been back several times, and will keep going as often as possible. Food is damn good and quick. Texture is 90% spot-on; just a few issues with the burnt ends (which are delicious BTW) and brisket over several visits. Pulled chicken, mac'n'cheese and beans are a 5 - outstanding every time. Smoked wings are show-stoppers, and I was nervous they'd be too smoky. Brisket and pulled pork were very good. Not a huge fan of the coleslaw or ribs, but to each their own. Overall 4.5, but for doing bbq right in Schenectady, they get a 5 and my sincere thanks. read more

The Memphis King Bbq - Barbeque Near Me - Schenectady, New York

Don't let the neighborhood deter you. This place is AMAZING!!! We had tried to order their food for delivery several times, but it was always sold out. And now we know why!!!! The food is SOOO good!!! And they are so popular, that sometimes, they have to turn off the online ordering to make sure to be able to accomodate walk in customers. I tried the Smoked Beef Brisket Philly Sandwich and it was SO good!! Husband had the Pulled Pork and loved it. I also got some fresh made zucchini bread that they had as a special that day. So good! And Brandon and Kim are super nice!! We felt immediately welcomed! We will be regulars! read more

Very good BBQ. Corn bread was good, not so sweet. I would suggest you to go for the sample platter.

This little gem is on the very short list of the very best BBQ I've ever had, and I've spent a lot of time in the South. Marvelously deep menu, seriously well-smoked meat, and the little garnishes (oh my, dry rub lemon and pepper fries, pile on the onions and pickles) that just take it over the top. You'll want to take out....though there's a table inside for dining in. Just put this joint into you regular rotation, and say 'thank you'. read more

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Local eats- always my favorite! I've had my eye on this place for MONTHS but due to my diet restrictions i couldn't have it until today! I made it a point to go there before my diet starts back up. Very small cozy spot. The store front looks similar to a house with big bay windows. Due to the quiet neighborhood off street parking wasn't an issue. We got the pulled chicken and beef brisket as well as a side of mac and cheese . The chicken wasn't dry at all and neither was the brisket. Portions are massive so my BF and I didn't get to finish the Queen combo we shared. The BBQ sauce options were great and has a nice kick. This place truly sells out fast so get it while it's hot! Customer service was very friendly and food was delivered with a smile. They are known in the area as people were starting to line up almost out the door waiting to order during lunch time. Bravo! read more

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Amazing food a bit pricey but you definitely get what you pay for good portions amazing owners they have showed me the whole kitchen and set up before super cool establishment read more

I have been to Memphis, TN to try BBQ twice and it really is some of the best in the business. This location is a family run business in a small space in Schenectady. At my most recent visit I got talking to one of the owners and he is a really thoughtful young man. The smoker they use is out back so you know everything is being smoked on the premises. I have had takeout from Memphis King but I recommend you eat in the restaurant, just my personal preference. During one of my visits I had the spare ribs and the smoked chicken. I did not care for the ribs at all. They were humongous, like the kind Fred Flinstone would eat. They had a good smokey flavor but they were under cooked and loaded with fat. I have never been to a BBQ joint that smoked chicken without bones but that is what they are doing here. I found it to be a bit dry and would not order it again. They also smoke chicken wings which I will definitely try some other time. On another trip I tried their burnt ends and the famous fried chicken thigh sandwich. The owner asked me what kind of burnt ends I wanted and they came out looking great. They were fantastic, smokey and full of flavor. MK has many BBQ sauces to choose from and I picked a few on both trips. I enjoyed the original and everytang. The fried chicken sandwich is a must try. Wow. Cole slaw, hot sauce and cooked perfectly. Wait 5 minutes before you take your first bite :) This has to be one of the best sandwiches in the Capital Region! Real Memphis BBQ? Not really. But they are making a good run at it. Definitely check them out. read more

We stopped in to grab a King's Fried Chicken Thigh Sandwich. Holy hell what a sandwich. I tried every sauce they had laid out on that table and I enjoyed them all. I wish they had a hotter sauce, but that's all I can complain about. Great establishment, and it was just before lunch time. So we witness the line grow out the door and down the street! This place is no joke when it comes to their food, you need to try it. read more

This is a fantastic bbq place. The ribs melt in your mouth. The pulled pork is sublime. The sides and corn bread are really good. They had peach cobbler and red velvet cookies I think so good.Awesome customer service from the people that run it if your craving BBQ this is the place to go. read more

Absolutely delicious! Some of the best bbq I've had! Good customer service also, definitely going back for more!

Great food! Of course, this isn't light but man was it good. I got the brisket with mac and cheese and collard greens. The collards were very fresh and they were not from a can because I've found a lot of places do that. The brisket had a good smokey flavor. Loved the mac and cheese it was the real deal! I'll be back for sure. I'm glad I finally decided to try Memphis King BBQ. read more

The BEST BBQ in the 518 hands down!! The owner is the nicest young man ever!!! He gives back to the community in so many ways that you just want to give back to his business! Try & you'll be hooked! read more

This is a great small bbq joint off the beaten path. Great customer service and friendly throughout. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich and 5 wings with Mac and cheese. Good portions without overdoing it. Wings were smoked with a dry rub and fried. If you eat in you choose the sauce. Mac and cheese was pretty good as well. Nice crust on the Mac and tasty! Seems like a lot of people order door dash and grub hub through them as well. In my short time eating there both arrived to pick up orders. Anyways, not sure if I will be back in Schenectady but if I am, this is the stop for bbq I would go to every time. read more

As usual food and service is outstanding. They are more than happy to assist you and answer any questions. You can't go wrong with the quality and prices of the food. Pulled chicken and beef brisket are outstanding. read more

Only gotten the brisket but it was excellent. I didn't think about asking but the BBQ sauce seems to be made there and is also very good. CALL AHEAD!!! We drove 45 mins two different times to eat here and they were sold out of almost all food. The 2nd time we thought going early would help, it was between 2:30-3 on a weekday and literally all meat was gone except some chicken I believe. 3rd time we ordered ahead with no issues. I'd rather a place making really good food run out of food then lose quality trying to increase production. It's also a sign this place is worth going to if they run out of food. But definitely call/order ahead. read more

Most of the stuff here is just ok, but the wings are out of this world. I'm not a wings person, but these are literally absurd. Staff is also really friendly and accommodating. read more

The number one spot for BBQ!! I always get the brisket, ribs, collard greens and mac n cheese. The food is consistantly amazingly delicious! Super friendly. The owners even came out to check with everyone how the meals tasted! The seating area is a little tight, that sort of thing doesn't bother me, but just so you are informed. The price to serving size is spot on. My meal: Queens Meal - 2 meats - 2 sides for $18. Plus a drink with your meal. Canned soda, bottled water or koolaid in a cup (creative!). Once it's gone, it's gone. They cook the food for the day and once they sell all the food they close for the day. No worries though! You can order ahead and they will hold your meal. Memphis King BBQ is definitely a hidden gem! read more

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My family and I were just in the area for the night and were looking for something for dinner. This place had the most reviews so we figured we couldn't go wrong choosing this place. We placed high expectations due to all the wonderful reviews and they were far surpassed. The food and the service were fantastic! The owner and staff were so welcoming and attentive between all of us we had a little bit of everything, the sandwiches, Mac n cheese etc and hands down one of the best BBQ we have ever had. If you're looking for a satisfying and delicious meal this is your place! read more

Amazing! If I was staying in town longer I would've went back multiple times. Call ahead early and order if you want something specific, I went at the end of the day and they were out of a few things already. I had the pork, wings and mac and cheese which were all incredible and fresh. The bbq sauce options are fantastic, I would've liked to try them all! Friendly and welcoming staff too. Not a lot of seating inside, I suggest taking it to go. read more