Looks like two nighst in Memphis late August and looking for Fodorite reviews/recommendations of the assorted BBQ restaurants, including Neely's (both), Corky's, Leonards, etc.

I know taste in BBQ can be intensely personal, so looking more for for location, service, quality, portion size, menu chioces, etc.

My personal ranking from living 20 years in Memphis would be :

1 - Interstate
2 - Germantown Commissary
3 - Corky's
4 - Rendevous

I have gone to the Rendevous several times over the past 35 years and have always enjoyed it. I love the atmosphere and the ribs and BBQ sandwiches are great.

Another vote for Rendevous! Corky's is right up there too! Haven't tried Interstate or Germantown yet ... must work on that! ENJOY!

I prefer Corky's over Rendez-vous... The rib meat is tough at Rendez-vous IMO. The atmosphere is fun though.
Corky's falls off the bone.... that is how I prefer it.

Cozy Corner for cornish game hens and BBQ spaghetti!

Rendezvous for BBQ

and if you are in the mood for some great fried chicken, Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken on Front Street is a must!

Ah Yes! I've read a lot of reviews about Gus's. We will be staying not too far from there at the Comfort Inn. If we can fight our way in Gus's will be our second night.

We went for lunch several years ago, I think a late lunch and we had no wait for a table. Restaurant is small, very charming and out of the way. Definitely go if you can.

Should say we went to Gus's for lunch!

My brother lived in Memphis several years and loves Germantown Commissary. He also went to the Barbeque Shop on Madison a lot, but that may have just been due to proximity (he was in med school close by).

Four years afterwards, Interstate is still my boys all time favorite. Just reading this thread makes me want to go back.