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Menu Snapshot

Pit Nachos
Pork Nachos
Deep Fried Bologna and Onion Rings
Deep Fried Bologna and Green Beans
  • Top categories (Plates / Sandwiches / Sides / Favorites / Family Packs)
  • Most orders: $10–20
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Overview & Highlights

Nestled in the heart of Tiptonville, Tennessee, Cheatham's Pit BBQ offers an authentic Southern barbecue experience that’s both comforting and memorable. Specializing in classic regional BBQ delights, this humble eatery brings the rich, smoky flavors of pulled pork, chicken, and ribs front and center, inviting you to savor each bite with pure delight.

The menu is a celebration of down-home favorites, featuring a variety of sandwiches, from the tender and juicy Pulled Pork and Pulled Chicken Sandwiches to the uniquely Southern Deep Fried Bologna Sandwich. If you’re craving something heartier, the “Just Meats” selection delivers in spades — imagine sinking your teeth into a half or full rack of ribs that literally melts in your mouth, or indulging in a whole Boston butt slow-cooked to perfection. For those with smaller appetites or kids in tow, the “Little Piglets” menu offers sliders, chicken strips, and comforting grilled cheese, proving there’s something for everyone.

What truly sets Cheatham's Pit BBQ apart is its devotion to authentic flavors and a genuine, welcoming vibe. According to longtime visitors, the pulled pork bursts with moistness and a beautiful crust, kissed by a mild smokiness that’s complemented by the house’s carefully crafted mild hot sauce. Fried okra aficionados will find it nearly unparalleled, while other highlights like the crispy BBQ french fries and the nostalgic banana pudding add layers of home-cooked charm.

The dining atmosphere perfectly matches the food’s soul — rustic, cozy, and imbued with Southern hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family from the moment you walk in. Whether seated indoors at the screened-in outdoor spaces or enjoying the casual setting, customers repeatedly praise the friendly service and the easy, laid-back ambiance that invites long, hearty meals with loved ones.

Whether you're stopping by after a day at nearby Reelfoot Lake or simply craving authentic regional barbecue, Cheatham's Pit BBQ deserves a spot on your must-visit list. Its flavors linger, the service makes you smile, and the memories made here keep diners coming back year after year.

For a true taste of Tennessee barbecue excellence, make sure to call ahead at +1 731-253-8600 and prepare to be delightfully satisfied.

Comforts & Conveniences

Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park

Where to Visit

Visitor Testimonials (570)

Great regional BBQ! The pulled pork is very moist, good crust, mild smoke. Good mild hot sauce. 2nd best okra. The chess squares are great. Good parking, easy to see. Some outdoor screened in seating.

I come down to Reelfoot lake once a year. On my way to the hotel I saw this place so the wife and stopped in. If you love southern hospitality and bbq then look no further, this is your place. The slab of ribs literally melted in your mouth, the fried okra awesome. The wife had pulled bbq chicken which she was not sharing with me… lol She was also introduced to fried green tomatoes, I have had them all my life but I also have southern blood in me. She absolutely loved them ! So if you are driving through this town make sure you stop in here you will not be disappointed.

Really good food. Fast service. Cozy little BBQ joint by the lake

The service is always great and the food is delicious! The nachos are my favorite.

The service here is excellent, The atmosphere is really cool and rustic looking, and the food is unbelievably outstandingly great! I highly recommend this place.

What a charming restaurant!! The decor is fun and quaint and a bit odd. The atmosphere is down home as it gets. My boyfriend and I loved our BBQ french fries! The slow cooked meat was spot on!! So good! We also ordered banana pudding. It wasn't anything to brag about nor was the tea but the BBQ was a place holder in our hearts. Tbh, commenting about the service being lackluster is not to be missed. The girl at the counter was sweet but we had to remind her of our pudding and the gallon of tea we ordered. We were the only customers so it stood out she forgot part of our order. Otherwise, a great stop for a full belly and satisfied heart.

From a Memphian, this is solid bbq. Pork had good flavor if not a bit fatty and smallish portion. Ranch-style potato salad is great, but slaw was the cloyingly sweet kind you find premade. I like the flavor of the sauces, especially the hot. Pork plate was a good value including drink for $14.

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