Beginning in the early 1970's, Don Pelts began to visualize a Memphis-style BBQ "joint" that made great premium BBQ in a fun 50's environment. After spending over a decade operating an existing Memphis BBQ restaurant (1970-1983 ), he finally set out to realize his dream. In 1984 Don found the perfect location and was ready to bring Corky's to reality. All he could think of was a small cozy place with old barn wood walls, lots of neon, polished brass, interior aged brick, ceiling fans, servers in bow ties and white shirts, and of course piping in all the great music hits of the 50's and 60's. The rest is Memphis history!

Memphis Magazine Voted #1 BBQ 17 Straight Years
Southern Living Magazine Readers Poll: Voted #1 BBQ 3 Straight Years
MEMPHIS Flyer: Voted #1 BBQ 6 Straight Years
FODOR'S: Corky's is the place to do some down and dirty barbecue eating.
PARADE Magazine: Sheila Lukins says, "This was my first taste of real BBQ, years ago. When piles of ribs, brisket, and Corky's magical slaw were brought to my table, I knew I was in heaven. Barbecue just can't get any better than this."
V.P. Dan Quayle: "Great Ribs! They are the best."
Former Secretary of the Navy, John Lehman: "The Best BBQ ribs I have ever tasted."
Farrah Fawcett: "Corky's, thank you for the best BBQ ever, and I'm from Texas."
Anette Benning: "The BBQ is fabulous!"
Memphis Blues Legend Rufus Thomas: "Corky's is the funkiest BBQ in the world."
PGA Great Tom Kite: "Thanks for the Great BBQ!"
NFL Great Ken Stabler: "Awesome!"
Kirk Gibson: "Great BBQ!"

No Fat, No Cholesterol Ingredients: tomato paste, molasses, vinegar, brown sugar, salt, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, onion, garlic, smoke flavor and spices.
From Tennessee.