- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Coffee & Tea |
- All
Memphis Blues Barbeque House
Category: Restaurants Barbeque Barbeque [Edit]
1465 W BroadwayVancouver, BC V6H 1H6
Neighbourhoods: Fairview Slopes, South Granville
(604) 738-6806
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
72 reviews for Memphis Blues Barbeque House
Review Highlights
-
"Mmm, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, yumm." In 28 reviews -
"Absolutely delicious, and their bbq sauce is perfect." In 12 reviews -
"The brisket was to drool for." In 21 reviews
Loading...
72 reviews in English
-
Review from S L.
Coquitlam, BC
5/19/2012
Good place for meat lovers. Five of us tried Elvis platter. Everyone is full and we got some for taking home. Price is a bit high but the food is unique. Come here if u wanna try something different then the usual burger and sandwich.
Tip: the way they order food is a bit different. After seated, you need to go n grab ur own drink and pay for it at counter. Same with ordering the food. The server do
es bring the food to the table though. -
Review from Ellen L.
Updated - 4/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
I promised the bf we'd be having BBQ on a quarterly basis. So 3 months after our last Memphis Blue soiree, we promptly returned for our next serving of meat, meat, and meat.
We were ambitious this time and took on the challenge in the form of the Memphis Feast. When this platter hit the table, it was drop-your-cutlery-and-use-those-digits every man/woman for him/herself kind of eating rampage. There was no talking. Nay, the mouth moved only for the food. Not conducive to building relationships, unless you want to get to know that delicious fat dripping tender piece of a pig better.
The Memphis Feast is suitable for 3 very hungry men. We had to pack home a doggie bag of shame. Let me tell you, lunch the day after was EVEN BETTER. Meat works in mysterious ways.
See you next quarter Memphis Blues. In the meantime, I be workin' off those calories.Listed in: Culinary Highlights 2012
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
1/14/2012
I will prelude this by saying that I've never really had BBQ before, other than Chinese BBQ. So this… Read more »
-
-
Review from Rick C.
A bunch of us hit up Memphis Blues to dig in some southern barbecue meat.
We ordered the ridiculous Elvis platter to split between six of us. This massive plate was filled with slab o' ribs, sliced beef brisket, pulled pork, barbecue chicken, ribs ends, and smoked sausage.
There was a full spread of side dishes including fries, potato salad, coleslaw, chili, corn bread, and barbecue sauce for dipping. It was all very tasty and filling as comfort food.
Memphis Blues is still the standard for southern style barbecue in Vancouver It was a ridiculous amount of meat and food for a very economical price.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/19/2010
Great place if you're in the mood for meat and lots of it. This BBQ joint is a classic southern… Read more »
-
-
Review from Stu C.
1/27/2012 4 Check-ins Here
Quick Notes: 1) Seating is limited this location with only about a dozen tables so you may have to wait 2) You will be taken to your table, but you have to go up to the cashier to make an order 3) They have specials Monday to Wednesday night on some dishes, but Wednesday is one of the best deals.
YAY BBQ! YAY again for BBQ cooked correctly! YAY a third time for also having good flavours with the BBQ meat. Memphis Blues has several locations spread throughout the lower mainland. However, don't think that just because they're a "chain" make the BBQ quality less. With that said, it's not the very best BBQ you'll probably have, but it's still really, really, really good.
As you walk through the door at Memphis Blues, you may feel you've been transported a little further southeastern US. The floors are wood, as are the walls covered in wood paneling/planking to give a rustic feel. There some pictures of the South and prominent people from the South or associated with Blues (such as BB King and Muddy Waters) are on the walls, adding to the feel of the restaurant.
As mentioned in the quick notes, this location is fairly small with only ~12-15 tables. During traditional dinner hours (5:30-7pm), you will almost certainly be waiting for a table. However, the kitchen staff have always been good at keeping up when I've gone to give a fast turnaround of tables. If you decided you just want the food, but not the atmosphere, all their food can be easily taken away, or you can call ahead and it will be ready for pickup when you arrive.
Once you are seated at a table, you'll notice 6 or 7 sauces in a basket by you (hot sauce, different type of bbq sauce, ketchup, malt vinegar) to be tried if you so desire. Each table also has a roll of paper towel (which you will need) when you eat the succulent, juicy meat. Menus are on each table and specials on a board behind the cashier. When you've figured out what you want, you have to go up to the cashier at the back and make an order there.
Every night there is a drink special of some sort. Although the beer and wine selection isn't vast, you'll probably be able to find something that you'll like. With that said, they have 2 house beers on tap, a few beers in bottles and about a dozen wines. If you're not sure if you'd like the beers on tap, they'll be more than happy to give you a small taste to see if you like it before you buy (definitely a plus). One item they do excel at having is whiskey (in which they have about 20-25 types ranging from $7 to $30 a glass.
Monday to Wednesday they have specials for dinner, with Wednesday being the best one in my opinion: you get the Memphis Feast which has every meat item and fixin' they sell, plus a slice of pie for each person (up to four people) for $44. Not too shabby at all. If you go just for BBQ at any time, I highly recommend the ribs($17 half rack meal) and my fiancé can't get enough of their catfish (in a salad, burger, entrée, whatever). Just as a note, their brisket can be a little hit or miss: 2 times I went it was absolutely perfect, and one time it was ok (not bad, just ok). So, I'll let you make the call on whether you want to try it or not :) The portions are large, so you will not walk away still hungry (even if you share the Memphis Feast with 4 people. Everytime, I've had some food to take away.
As far as BBQ goes, it's pretty darn good. It won't change your perspective on life or BBQ, but it is definitely a place you'll want to come back to again and again for some good reasonably priced BBQ done right. -
Review from Isabelle G.
Vancouver, BC
12/21/2011
If you like your food super salty...this is the place. My pallet can't handle overly salty things in general, however, their fries and ribs are a sodium overkill for me. The guy I am dating whom loves his salt was even shocked at the sodium suicide of the fries. I haven't eaten a lot of Memphis based foods to compare if the spice combination is appropriate to the culture, however, based on other reviews outside of Yelp, this seems to be the hot spot for the real thing.
They have the best corn bread that I've ever eaten. I've been to both this location and with some friends at the North Van location, each served with warm fresh cornbread. It's the right chemistry of sweet and savoury that compliments the meat dish.
The ambience is very DIY, low key and almost in some respect, self serve. It's a very casual afternoon easy going date location.
The kitchen staff are characters in themselves that seem to make the place. I've always been greeted with a smile and on the one occasion was greeted with a joke at the cash til.
They are one of the locations in the commercial drive area that serves the best craft soda's which compliment the dish. REAL craft root beer paired with ribs is a taste pallet compliment.
The prices are decent with the portions and service. In some cases, I think that they undercharge given the quality. Clearly they're more concerned with maintaining a sustainable affordable customer base without sacrificing quality. -
Review from May B.
Vancouver, BC
11/15/2011
"How's May?"
"She's good. I took her to Memphis Blues the other day. She wasn't eating meat at the time."
"How'd she like it?"
"She loved it."
"You're my hero."
True story brah.
Well, to be fair, I had decided to go back to meat before stepping foot into Memphis Blues, but it was the first restaurant I ate at after making that decision. This place is my boyfriend's go-to spot for meat; I think he's obsessed with BBQ after eating here so many times. I have to share in the love - I tend to not opt for red meat because I don't like the taste, but when it's cooked to absolute tenderness and slathered in sauce, I really can't say no. I've only tried the pulled pork nachos [which are an absolutely AMAZING treat for $10 - so much sauce, so much meat - just the way I want it] and the pulled pork sandwich but I'm keen on the other menu options.
Their portions are really nice and generous, especially for the price. And they have a fantastic selection of bourbon on the shelf - Woodford Reserve..mm. This is where my boyfriend and I go when we just wanna fill our bellies with great cheap eats, listen to some smooth jazz (the staff'll turn it up for you if you ask!), and just get messy. -
Review from Amanda H.
12/13/2011 2 photos
We have eaten here many times and as a southerner I was very pleased! My mother ran a BBQ place in Arkansas and I have to say that this was almost as good as hers. I always leave this place stuffed to the gills. I especially love their sweet tea with the simple syrup. MMMM! I doubt there is a better BBQ joint in Vancouver!
Another reviewer said that this place has horrible service because they weren't waited on hand and foot. I'm here to tell you, they don't do that in the south either. These are supposed to be casual places. I would have found it very surprising if someone came to my table! -
Review from Tamara L.
12/7/2011
I love this place. Big delicious portions. Friendly staff. Quick service. A 'two meat' platter (with choice of 2 different meats, fries, coleslaw, beans & slice of corn bread) is enough to feed 2 people and it's $21. Not bad!
Their french fries and beans are some of the tastiest I have ever had. I don't generally even LIKE beans.. but the way they make theirs?! YUM! They also have a nice selection of artisan bottled sodas-- the ginger ale & cream soda's are a particular favourite!
Pricey street parking only in this neighbourhood. -
Review from Jeff F.
Hmmm... I have been to this place many many MANY times... I love BBQ. (and I mean LOVE!!!) A lot of people like the St. Louis style of ribs... where everything is just falling apart.... this isn't that kind of place. There's some bite to the ribs.... but that's not why I'm coming here. My normal order (split with another person) is the 2 meat combo plate. I generally pick pulled pork and brisket (oh brisket... where were you all my life in a small town in Saskatchewan)... That however is not enough... I ALWAYS get a side order of sausage (OMG!!!! it goes so nicely with that other meat accompaniment).
Granted... I leave this place with a notch loosened on my belt... maybe some leftovers... but probably not... maybe just another loosened notch after that first one... some nice bourbon or lemonade in my belly (is it just me... or are more places bringing in more bourbons! Not just the run of the mill Jim Beam, or someone trying to tell me that Jack Daniels is bourbon... or the rare inclusion of that ever NOT so rare Maker's Mark... I'm liking it! More bourbon for everyone!), and good memories looking forward to my next time there... .. which will be soon. -
Review from Maria J.
8/26/2011 2 photos
I was so excited to eat here, as I did my research about good food. Memphis Blue's captured my heart, but soon left my heart after my 1st bite.
The ribs taste like they're baked in an oven. The taste was bad and I could see leftover meat residue from where the ribs sat in a baking pan. I overlooked that. I poured sauce on my ribs, but the sauce was THE WORST I've ever had... The beans taste identical to using a can opener and heating them in a microwave.. Like pork n beans. The colseslaw and potato salad was meh!!!! The only item that was semi alright was the cornbread, and that taste like, cornmeal egg and milk... I was looking forward to sweet cornbread with other fixins mixed, like other bbq joints I've eaten at.
I've not traveled to Memphis, but this bbq is a digrace to Memphis bbq... My daughter even said the food was nasty..... Add some more spices and smoke or grill the meat and UPGRADE the sauce and I might check back on another visit to BC.. For now, this is an aquired taste you need for Memphis Blues, sort of like caviar... ugh.
I honestly have no idea what the hype is about this food. -
Review from Isaac R.
Vancouver, BC
11/26/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Better for take out in my opinion. 2 stars because they are severely lacking in service.
However, Memphis Blues does have some of the best southern-style BBQ; better than anywhere else I've been to north of the border. Yes, the food is really really good.
Sadly, the place is really lacking that southern hospitality that I am used to.
The older guy at the counter was speaking to me at a deafening volume level at 2:30 in the afternoon, when the place was nearly empty. I couldn't figure out if he was deaf or what. It is small, but I'd prefer if the place had actual servers instead of the "food cart" feel, especially since it's not that cheap...
Still, I'd probably return for the food. -
Review from Mark F.
As a native Texan, I'm impressed beyond belief. I can't imagine you're going to find anything better outside of the South.
Brisket is top notch. No fat cutting here for a juicy, no knife needed love affair with beef
Second half is sausage is good not nothing special.
Potato salad is chunky and delicious but the Cole slaw is not my speed. I like the wet slaw but there's somehitng a little sour that kills it for me.
Beans are a change from the normal BBQ sweet beans. Great sauce with brisket drippings. Very nice
On to sauces. Slightly sweet with the smallest touch of spices is easy but not spectacular. A slightly more spicy honey mustard type and a terriachi with a kick. Mixed it with the base and it was mighty fine.
Partner had chicken which I thought was dry but with good smoke. He said "it's pretty good".
Not cheap, $60 for 2 combos and 2 beers. Well worth the price of admission.
Went back for a total of three times in two weeks. Hit up the Memphis platter and 4 of us devoured it. Amazing! Chicken, brisket, beef and pork ribs with shredded pork, beans, bread, slaw and potato salad. Had an order of shrimp on the side and it was finger lick'n good...no great! -
Review from D. F.
Vancouver, BC
10/4/2011
Mmmmmm....BBQ!
Great lunch spot if you work in the area. I usually get whatever happens to be the lunch sandwich special. Mmm, ribs, pulled pork, sausage, yumm....tried the lambwich once but that was just ok.
The seasoned fries are tasty.
Service is friendly.
Be prepared to use a lot of napkins...paper towels actually (sorry trees!)... because the fingers will get messy. You get an entire roll of paper towels on each table so no worries.
Washroom kinda divey, but suffices if needed. Some wobbly tables.
Potential heart attacks if you go there too often, haha!
I'll be back occasionally though. -
Review from Jenna B.
Coquitlam, BC
2/16/2012
Craving meat? This is your place. I'm not a big meat person. This is not for vegetarians, or vegans. However, as someone who isn't a big meat person can I say the meat is delicious. If you are ever in the mood for meat you've found heaven. The best option is to get some friends and spilt a platter with various meats, just come with a big appetite. The decor is very American, and blues era. They play some great music. Not the cheapest meals are around $15 depending on how you spilt the platter, and because I went with people who eat much faster than me I didn't leave feeling full
-
Review from Justin L.
8/15/2011
OK, here's the thing: Memphis Blues is not only the best BBQ in Vancouver ('cause, well, yeah, it's Vancouver, not exactly the BBQ capital) -- it's actually some of the best BBQ I've had, even compared to reputable spots in California, Texas, and North and South Carolina. All of which fills the first statement -- that's it's the best in Vancouver -- with some more gravitas and respect.
Pulled pork with BBQ sauce? Great. But if you really want to knock the socks off some meat lovers (don't kill your uncles, though; bring the kids you own or mentor), order the ELVIS PLATTER. Come hungry, but take it slowly, and take it easy. -
Review from Giovanni A.
Vancouver, BC
9/1/2011
Alright - don't mean to brag, but I was the very first customer at Memphis. Got to know George & Park over the course of that first week, as I literally ate there every lunch.
Anywhoo on to the review - Best BBQ in town - hands down. However I think it's a bit of "small pond, big fish" syndrome. Given that, the brisket is absolutely gorgeous, as are the sausages and ribs. Does anyone actually eat the chicken? The pulled pork's not bad either. OK pretty much everything is tasty.
In short if your craving BBQ, hit up Memphis as it is remarkably consistent and good. -
Review from Jee M.
Vancouver, BC
2/10/2012
One word amazing only thing about this location too dang small but everyone there who works are friendly and the food is sooo good not really for veggies lol but this place will make you want meat
-
Review from Niko D.
7/13/2011
I am a big fan of BBQ and meat! I have traveled all over the united states and hit some pretty good BBQ pits and dives.
I have to say that Memphis Blues is the best BBQ joint in Vancouver I have found to replicate the excellent southern delicacies like Pulled Pork and Brisket.
I LOOOOVVVEEEEEE Pulled Pork and this is one of their specialties. The moist, juicy stranded meat is complimented with a warm smokey BBQ sauce. The dish is complimented with a side of Mash potatoes or french fries. All of which is made in house. The mash is really good! I was impressed with its freshness and flavor. The french fries were fresh cut fries with an amazing seasoning on them. This is definitely one of my favorite dishes.
They also have a very unique selection of root beers and colas. From Jones Soda to actual Organic Cane Sugar Root Beer... It was a great addition to the pulled pork Sandwich.
WARNING!!!!!!!!!! If you Love Poutine....Try the Pulled Pork Poutine. It is a heart attack waiting to happen but once a year is ok...gosh gee i'm getting a craving for it! Gotta Go.. Happy eating! -
Review from Stacy G.
6/21/2011
Since the meat is cooked earlier in the day, you get your meal surprisingly fast after you order at the counter here. The smoked sausage was the best, followed by the ribs and then the chicken. Nice BBQ sauce. I didn't care for the beans or the coleslaw, but the tiny wedge of corn bread was moist and sweet and the potato salad was ok.
After we ate, we looked at the carnage of our meal and felt a little sick. Also, we saw a mouse run across the floor about the same time, which may have had something to do with it. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't great.Listed in: Vancouver BC
-
Review from Alice L.
Vancouver, BC
9/23/2011
Went here tonight with a couple of friends for a pre-birthday celebration. I went there previously with my boyfriend for lunch some time ago and loved the food there which is why i wanted to give it a second try. The food was fantastic, as usual, but I couldn't believe how bad the service was--actually, we were not served at all.
The waitress did not ever bother to come to ask if we wanted water or anything, while she obviously went over to other tables more than one time and was being super friendly to all of the rest of the customers.
We ordered around $100 bucks food plus wine, and I still left a $20 tip, because myself being a waitress, would never dream of not leaving a tip. Nevertheless I would very much like to point out that, if you really want to try out this place, do take out, and dont bother dining in, because you will get pissed off at the poor service.
At one point I wanted to order a second glass of wine, and said as such to the waitres, however she told me to order it myself at the front counter. What's the point of having wait staff?! Not only that, but when I asked if we could take our leftovers home, the waitress dropped an empty take-home container on our table without saying anything. Seriously, what are these people being paid for?
From somebody who works in a restaurant, I found the service here not only inadequate, but insulting. Still, I'll give credit where credit is due - the guy behind the counter was super helpful, not trying to upsell me and my two friends a larger platter than we needed, and generally was funny and friendly.
To sum up; food is awesome, service is fast-food chain substandard (with exceptions). -
Review from Lisa L.
Vancouver, BC
3/24/2011
If you like meat and don't mind heart attacks, this place is for you. It smells like barbeque as soon as you walk in and every item on the menu has meat in it. (There's coleslaw and potato salad, but I'm pretty sure that's got meat in it, too.)
Not only is there loads of meat, but all of it is delicious. My favourites are the platters. Large enough to share with friends (or have plenty of leftover to take home) and let's you sample a bit of everything. The only thing lacking is the service, which is friendly but not great, and the popularity of the place leaves few seats available at peak hours. -
Review from Rachel D.
Richmond, BC
7/19/2011
Found the sandwiches to be seriously overloaded with bbq sauce and not in a good way!
The pricing is ok but in general I just find everything either way too seasoned (sandwiches/fries) or weirdly bland (cornbread).
The pecan pie is pretty great though and the staff are really friendly.
I like the fact that it's licensed as well, beer always helps! -
Review from Martina M.
Vancouver, BC
11/21/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I came here with my fiance on a Wednesday night. When we arrived a girl came right over and cleaned up a table for us, so we were seated really quickly. At Memphis Blues, you have to order at the cash register. My fiance wanted a beer, but didn't know which one to get. He asked the cashier for a recommendation, and the cashier said that he didn't drink alcohol, but would gladly let him try any beer he wanted. This was unexpected and awesome. The wine they had on special for $6/glass was very good too. My fiance ordered the half rack of ribs, which were fall off the bone delicious. I ordered the catfish salad, which came with an absolutely huge piece of battered catfish, tartar sauce, and a small salad with vinaigrette on the side. The catfish was so good that I barely touched my salad. I highly, highly recommend the catfish salad, because you get a ton of food for the price you pay.
I would definitely come back here again. -
Review from Kate R.
Vancouver, BC
5/21/2011
As a Southerner, I feel it is my duty to review this place. After living in Vancouver for almost 2 years, I finally broke down and tried it last night, so here goes.
The cornbread was really, really good, but they give you such a small piece (if you get any at all). Anyhow it was pretty reminiscent of home and wasn't too dry, so props for that. Their fries were also awesome, but that has nothing to do with their Southerness.
Now for the less than spectacular. The pulled pork was okay, but it wasn't anything special and I was a little freaked out because it looked less pulled and more mushed. I think it was scooped out with an ice cream scoop, which just seems wrong. Their sauce was pretty disappointing, not very strong or flavorful, but did have an interesting/not so great after taste. I put on some of the other sauces at the table, but again, nothing very flavorful. The baked beans were just weird tasting, I don't know what that was about.
So, will I go back? Probably. I'm too lazy to make my own pulled pork. Will I tell others to go? Sure, but I'll tell them I know of lots better back home. -
Review from Anthony R.
8/2/2011
Order at the counter and before you sit down your food is ready. Since the meats are all pre cooked, the flavor and tenderness suffer, especially for the ribs. The pulled pork was pretty good with their bbq sauce, though I would have liked more heat.
Their french fries were cooked the way I like and were very well seasoned. The cornbread was moist and sweet, and almost took the role of desert.
While the fries and cornbread were good, the meat was not up to my expectations for the prices they charge. I'd go again, but I've had much better. -
Review from Will K.
Vancouver, BC
2/27/2011
Pork is indeed a gift sent from heaven. And this place reminds us of this fact every time we step in and indulge ourselves in this deliciousness!
Can't go wrong with the pulled pork. It's the best I had in Canada and almost in par with recipes from Texas and Mexico. BBQs are tender, juicy, and the sauces compliment them very well.
The decor is reminiscent of a southern highway saloon where one can get off their Harley Davidson and have a bite before continuing their journey.
Best of all, the price is more than right. One sandwich with some sides can cost less than $10 even with HST included and one can leave satisfied. Going with a group? Starting with a $42 CAD Memphis Feast platter with a good variety and sides can make 3 people very happy. Bigger platters are available.
Finger-licking good. Literally. -
Review from Adrian V.
Richmond, BC
3/20/2011
My mother and her friends ate her and enjoyed it so she decided to bring the entire family here for my brother's birthday. Since he's a big pork fan, he simply could not wait.
We arrived at the tiny restaurant at around 6:30 and the place was already full. We had to wait around 20 minutes to get seated but thank goodness we arrived early because once we were seated, the dinner crowd came rushing in. From the great food, I can see why.
For starters, we had the BBQ nachos. I thought there would be a lot of add-ons to it but there was only the nachos, pulled pork, BBQ sauce and cheese. Maybe it's a good thing that there were only a few components because it was delicious. I could tell the chips were from a bag but it overall it was still good. I would have liked more cheese on it though.
Around the table, we had the half slab o' ribs with potato salad and baked potato, pulled pork sandwich, beef brisket with fries, and the ribs end meal. The ribs were tender, moist and very tasty. The pulled pork sandwich and the ribs end were also a hit. The birthday boy enjoyed his beef brisket meal as well.
The beans were good, although I would've liked it to be served on something other than a small paper serving dish. There was a small serving of cornbread which was yummy; I wish it was a bigger serving. The salad had a little too much dressing, but the baked potato and the fries were delicious.
Overall great service and I felt like I was in the south enjoying a nice southern meal. I would give it 3 or 4 "$" in terms of price point.
Would I come back? Definitely. My only suggestion: I wish the place was bigger! -
Review from Tyler S.
Vancouver, BC
10/22/2010
The mere mention of Memphis Blues gets me salivating like Pavlov's dog (not kidding). Although I've never been to the barbeque states myself, I have it on good authority that Memphis Blues can contend with the best real southern American barbeque joints.
If it's your first time here, I cannot over-stress the importance of ordering a platter.* Although unnatural mixtures of meats can lead to disaster (looking at you, BSE), I like to think the platter's variety is magical, like turducken, or wrapping anything in bacon.
*N.B. Never order platter without a teammate. Once I ordered a Memphis Feast by myself and ate it over three days. For a variety of reasons, don't do that.
P.S. I recommend the Boylan's unsweetened lemon soda as part of a good eating strategy. It won't blunt your appetite and the crisp taste cuts the grease. -
Review from Sarah H.
Halifax, NS
7/6/2011
My friends nearly threw me down when I mentioned to them that I'd never had pulled pork before. (I know. So sue me.) They WERE, however, excited that my first experience was going to be at the Memphis Blues Barbeque House - a staple in their neighborhood.
When we arrived we were greeted by about three servers, who cheerily recommended that we take a quick look at the menu while they "scrubbed" the booth that we were eying was clean. Great service there.
We ordered a platter that was topped with everything from rib ends, to bbq chicken, to corn bread, to the absolutely scrumptious, delicious, pulled pork. There were some great additions like bbq sauce, beans, coleslaw and potato salad, all of which were amazing.
The price was very reasonable, and who really can complain when you can get a bucket of beer (4 beers) served to your for 10 bucks? My only suggestion would be encourging more outdoor seating, seems like it would be easy to fill. -
Review from Alicyn C.
12/10/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Drool.. oh my goodness. I finally made it to Memphis Blues after always walking by and not venturing in. I went with my co-workers and ordered the beef brisket sandwich (lean). The brisket was to drool for. Not sure why I didn't go sooner but so thankful that I was finally convinved to go.
I look forward to going again soon for some lunch hour gossip and drooltastic meat. -
Review from Nam N.
Vancouver, BC
10/29/2010
Aw man I love this place, the basic platter is good for 4 to 5 ppl, we went with a group 3 and that was just too little. You end up eating too much, ugh, I don't think I'll be back for another year...but once I get the craving again I'll be back with a vengeance.
Southern style BBQ is so tasty, tons of sauce and some for dipping too, every morsel of meat is cooked perfectly. Juicy tender meat, nothing burnt, over or undercooked. I'm a BBQ fanatic so this place is thumbs up for me.
We had their Memphis Feast which includes every type of meat they offer and fixings for $41.95 plus a side of ceasar salad...we were really hungry and thought salad might balance it out...don't think so.
PRICE: Reasonable considering the serving size. Also some good beer specials.
SERVICE: Self-serve. But the servers are really friendly and so are the cooks. I like the atmosphere, very down to earth stuff your face with meat kind of place. Cool Jazz music and neat memorabilia on the walls.
SUGGEST: Grab a group of carnivores and go for the Memphis Feast platter to feed 4 big people or 5 small peeps. Great way to sample everything in a group. Upgrade to the bigger platters for more people. The waitresses are there to clean up but its self-serve like at a fast-food joint.
They've got cheap pitchers of beer too...but ugh with that much meat I couldn't really drink beer...maybe a Diet Coke next time. -
Review from Fritz S.
4/6/2011
This place is great for some good ol BBQ meat sweats!
with tasty southern classics such as the pulled pork po boi sandwiches, beef and pork ribs, bbq chicken, catfish, deepfried oysters, collard greens, baked beans, coleslaw, potato salad,... hold on... *wipes drooling mouth*... ok im good, its hard to find a seat in this little piece of animal hell ;)
There is a lot for everyone, even a simple meat sandwich and fries with some fixins can really fill you up. This place also caters to big parties with their Elvis and Priscilla platters which has a little of everything to try!! a little pricy but worth it!
come early, leave sleepy ;) -
Review from Brian S.
10/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Been going there for 10 years and it always pretty darn good for a fair price. From time to time they will get a new staff person that 's not with the program & treating you indifferently but they never seem to stick around. If its really busy and you really need to sit down and eat ask for the executive sweet which they set up on the back counter. It can make for fun visit.
-
Review from beki L.
Vancouver, BC
4/18/2011 1 photo
I have just finished the vancouver Sun Run for the first time...
I'm tired, but not exhausted...
I'm not hungry, but RAVENOUS...
all I could think about was meat...!!
Memphis Blues is a great BBQ joint if all you came for was a messy good time of eats!
Best way to experience this place is to come with a crowd (min. 4 pple at least!) to order up a platter! They just pile it up with all their meats and fixin's.....and its no holds bar for who takes what first!
My personal faves:
brisket - so soft, tender...juicy, great taste! i watched the boys dip it up with the bbq sauce, i chose not to add it.
pulled pork - there were some dry pieces, but for the most part, very moist and tasty. i tried a little with the bbq sauce and i didn't mind it so much. prefer without it though.
corn bread - it wasn't served warm this time...but when you are able to catch it slightly warm still, it is just perfect. i absolutely love the corn bread here.
coleslaw - surprised with the yumminess! i like the tartness and the flavors of the veggies, awesome balance to all the grease!
Ribs - the baby back ribs were more moist compared to the larger ribs...i have to say that my brothers ribs are the best in town.
the chicken was okay...nothing special about the flavors. some of my friends thought it was rather dry, the breast piece i had was moist though. -
Review from Jonathan T.
Vancouver, BC
6/24/2010
Order The Brisket. Yes, in caps. It is The Brisket. The Brisket is good. If you're terminally ill (with some incurable, degenerative heart disease) you might as well come here, order The Brisket, and die happy. That's how good it is.
According to other reviews, The Pulled Pork is good as well. I'll give The Pulled Pork the benefit of the doubt and spell her in caps as well. I was planning on trying The Pulled Pork the next day when I eventually came back for more. Unfortunately I underestimated The Brisket Hangover I got the next morning and was unable to return for my date with The Pulled Pork.
Curses.
You might ask "If you liked it so much, why the 4 stars?". Because this place is tiny. When you dine here, you're dining intimately with everyone else. Which is kinda cool in a way. But when you serve food like this, you need to expect some of your patrons are going to have a tough time trying to walk to and from their tables in your Nicole Richie sized spaces in between tables. -
Review from Erin S.
2/17/2011
On a recent trip to Vancouver, we hit up Memphis Blues on a rainy afternoon. We had received several recommendations from assorted people. Plus my brother & his girlfriend seemed very eager when we suggested this as a meeting place for a late lunch. How could so many be wrong?
They weren't! We were smacked in the face by the smoky deliciousness of some southern style BBQ. YUM! Makes my mouth salivate just thinking about it.
Prices were great. Ambiance was alright. Staff were there, but not overly helpful.
Not sure how we decided that the Elvis platter would be the right choice for our group of 4, but it ended up being WAY TOO MUCH food. Sent my bro home with a ton of leftovers at the end.
The sides were meh. A big disappointment next to their fine meat offerings. This meant I ate too much BBQ without it being balanced out by other food offerings. This resulted in some serious meat sweats which left me feeling rather gross. Still wouldn't stop me from going back - just would be more careful about what I ate.
If I lived locally, I'm sure I would be back a few times a year. Seeing as I don't, given the choice, I'll be checking out other fabulous Vancouver food options. -
Review from Alexandria M.
Vancouver, BC
1/10/2010 ROTD 4/6/2010
My coworker brought Memphis Blues takeout to our office Christmas party. I tried the pulled pork with incredibly gooey, dark, molassesy sauce, and I almost wept with delight. The meat was so tender it literally fell apart on my fork, and melted in my mouth like candy.
It's hard to maintain one's dignity (and clean face and hands), so next time I get Memphis Blues takeout I may have to dine alone, in my bathtub. -
Review from Michelle R.
Vancouver, BC
12/3/2010
Good eats.
Small place.
My companion: Big meat. Big flavour. Liked: melt in your mouth beef brisket. Ribs: smokin' good. Casual atmosphere for a 'pig out'. Good portions. $20 (about) gets you all you can eat ribs and fries. Exercised some self-discipline and opted for brisket and rib combo instead which was more than filling.
Moi: Oyster po'boy. Best oyster sandwich I've had- the oysters were coated in cornmeal and were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Us: Memphis honey lager, good, cold, big. -
Review from Jenni B.
4/29/2009
Mmmmm.... BBQ.
When you want to go for a basket of ribs and fries march your butt down to Memphis Blues BBQ House. So down south hole in the wall, this place is much too reliable for some oh so good but oh so bad for you barbeque. Personally I always good for the ribs.
Service is always pretty fast and definately friendly and the prices are very reasonable, especially considering the amount of food you get.
Now just remember to wipe your face real well when you're done. -
Review from graham r.
Updated - 1/25/2009 1 photo
Since I've become more familiar with my local BBQ joint and since I wanted to become less quick to throw out five star ratings, I have to subtract one star from Memphis Blues. I just really don't like brisket and steak is a major draw for a BBQ joint.
I was trying to get them to offer tri tip as a special but I don't think the owner was into it. I didn't realize tri tip is a central California term for a of cut of steak (more commonly known as Bottom Sirloin), so they had not heard of it when I recommended it. Tri tip is much better it can be slow cooked and it comes out medium rare and has much less gristle than brisket.
So I'm limited to pork items, and lately I been getting my pork related meals from Ramen bowls... If they add tri tip I will give them their 5th star back. As Trav W. stated, I'm holding the last star for ransom.1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
8/26/2008
If you like BBQ then you will like this place. Many times I just get a large pulled pork sandwich to… Read more »
-
