Like lobster in Maine and deep-dish pizza in Chicago, you can't visit Memphis, Tennessee and not have barbecue —more precisely, dry rubbed ribs at Charles Vergos' Rendezvous.
Charles Vergos' Rendezvous has been serving up their world-famous dry rubbed pork ribs since 1948. The location is right off Union Avenue, in an alley of all places, directly across from The Peabody Memphis.
As soon as you step foot onto Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous Alley —really that's the name— the scent of barbecue smacks you in the face and you know you're in for some good eats. Or at least that was my experience when I dined there for the first time, just last month.
The restaurant has the atmosphere of a "hole in the wall", with random memorabilia in every nook and cranny. I thought the eclecticness just added to the appeal and made me feel like I had found a hidden gem, even though I'm pretty sure that Rendezvous is known (and recommended) by just about everyone in Memphis!
Before I even looked at the menu, I knew what I was going to order— how could I not try the charcoal-broiled pork ribs that make this place so famous? There was only one decision ... large or small?
I went with a small order (half rack) with baked beans and mustard/vinegar coleslaw, but after one bite I knew I could have handled the large portion (full rack). As a rib lover, I had high expectations given all the hype that surrounds Rendezvous; but, believe me— these dry rubbed ribs were some of the best I've ever had. What makes them unique is the combo of the dry rub (a secret blend of seasonings and spices) and vinegar, which is basted on the ribs to keep them moist without BBQ sauce. I found Rendezvous' rub so tasty that I bought my own bottle of seasoning to take home.
After dining at the Rendezvous, it was easy to see why their ribs are world-famous. If I ever find my way back to Memphis I will definitely stop by for another round -- I encourage you to do the same!
Charles Vergos' Rendezvous
52 S Second St (in the back on Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous Alley)
Memphis, Tennessee 38103
http://www.hogsfly.com
Colleen says
This would so be my husband's kinda food. He loves barbeque. Maybe I just haven't had any good barbeque maybe I need to go to TN
Donna says
I live in Knoxville and have never been to Memphis. I would love to go there to try the barbecue!
Penelope (NYC Blogger) says
I lov ribs!
LyndaS says
Those look good. That would be a good place to go and eat after watching the march of the ducks at The Peabody.
Jennifer @ The Quirky Momma says
I so love BBQ of any kind. When I was pregnant with my first child, I couldn't eat enough BBQ. Almost every night I had my hubby take me to a local BBQ joint!
Liz @ A Nut in a Nutshell says
Based on how you described it, I'd be inclined to take some home with me too to try to replicate it!
Tiff @ Babes and Kids says
I'd go in based on the smell alone! Those ribs look amazing.
Jenn @TheRebelChick says
Whoa that looks amazing! I am a huge fan of BBQ, I need to go to Memphis!
Kelsey Apley says
Now that is what I call BBQ!!! Yum I so wish we lived near cause I want that for supper!
courtney says
Oh man that's massive! Glad you can buy the rub so you can make it whenever 🙂
Night owl mama says
that looks amazing. I'd love to give that a try some day
Robin Gagnon {Mom Foodie} says
I love dry rub BBQ, sloshed around in good sauce!
Angela says
I am a huge fan of bbq, although I have never had it in Memphis.
Lolo says
World famous ribs!! Sounds so yummy!
Anne - Mommy Has to Work says
We hope to go to Tennessee next summer. Would love to try these.
Kathleen says
Yum! There are few things better than authentic juicy barbecue.
Toni says
Those ribs look to die for. I love a good rib and those are making my mouth water LOL
Jenn says
Mmmm. Nothing like dry rub!
Ty @ Mama of 3 Munchkins says
Mmmm, those ribs look good!
Vanessa: thequeenofswag says
Looks like an awesome place to get BBQ!
Shell Feis says
Ooh BBQ sounds really good right now!
HilLesha says
I'm sure my husband would love something like this! 🙂
Tammy says
Oh that looks delicious. Our daughter loves ribs and it's quite funny to see the faces of the wait staff when she orders a rack because she's so tiny.
Marcie W. says
I am always excited to try new BBQ spots, especially they they look as good as this one!
Leilani says
I'm a huge fan of BBQ and ribs. Those look yummy. I'd love to try the food there some day.