Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Authentic Bar-B-Q Since 1972 in Knoxville
Since 1972, Buddy's Bar B Q has been a cornerstone of East Tennessee's dining scene, dedicated to delivering authentic, slow-cooked barbecue with unmatched value. Our family-owned business, now in its third generation, began with a passion for quality food and a commitment to community. Every day, we smoke our meats onsite in traditional pits, ensuring each bite honors the rich traditions of Tennessee barbecue. Over 50 years, we've expanded to 19 locations while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that made our original Knoxville restaurant a local favorite. Our menu features classics like Pork Sandwiches and Smoky Ribs, complemented by homemade Hushpuppies and desserts like our signature Hot Fudge Cake.We also offer catering services for events of all sizes, including holiday feasts with smoked turkeys and family packs. With drive-thru convenience at every location and 68% of sales for off-premises dining, we make it easy to enjoy our 'Smokin Good Deal' anywhere. Our enduring success stems from listening to guests who helped shape our iconic flavors, ensuring every meal meets the high standards set by our founders. Today, we continue to serve East Tennessee with pride, blending tradition with innovation to stay true to our roots while embracing the future.
Services
Pork Sandwich
Smoky Ribs
Hushpuppies
Catering Services
Drive-Thru
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We slow-cook meats onsite daily in traditional barbecue pits.
- Our menu includes family packs serving up to 10 people.
- We've catered events for East Tennessee communities since 1972.
- Our drive-thru service accommodates 44% of total sales.
- Homemade desserts include award-winning Hot Fudge Cake.
What people say
Perfectly smoked meats
Free Hot Fudge Cake program
Family packs serve 10 people
Quick drive-thru service
Traditional East Tennessee flavors
Services
Bar-B-Q Catering
Buddys offers full-service catering for weddings, corporate events, and holiday gatherings. Custom menus include smoked meats, sides, and desserts for parties up to 100 guests. Catering includes setup and service by trained staff.
Slow-Cooked Meats
All meats are hickory-smoked onsite daily in traditional pits. Signature options include Pork Sandwiches, Smoky Ribs, and Turkey Breast. Every cut is slow-cooked to maximize tenderness while preserving authentic Tennessee flavors.
Family Meals
Family Packs serve 4-10 people with meats, sides, buns, sauce, and cookies. Menu includes combinations like 3 lb Pork Shoulder with 3 sides and 12 rolls. Perfect for gatherings, tailgating, or easy weeknight dinners.
Drive-Thru Service
44% of sales occur through our drive-thru lanes. Guests can order full meals, family packs, and catering through drive-thru windows at all locations. Standard wait time is under 10 minutes during peak hours.
Homemade Desserts
Daily-baked desserts include peach cobbler, banana pudding, and signature Hot Fudge Cake. The two-layer chocolate cake with vanilla soft serve remains a bestseller since 1972. Shakes use house-made flavor bases.
People
Buddy Smothers
Founder
Buddy co-founded Buddys Bar-B-Q in 1972 after leaving a 20-year finance career. He pioneered the slow-smoking process using hickory wood and created the original recipe for Hot Fudge Cake.
LaMuriel Smothers
Co-Founder
LaMuriel opened the first restaurant in 1972 after running the successful Pixie Drive Inn. Her culinary expertise established the restaurant's signature barbecue sauces and recipes still used today.
Questions
How do I order a holiday feast?
Holiday feasts can be ordered directly through our website or by calling your local Buddys location. Advance notice is recommended for large orders.
Are catering services available year-round?
Yes, our catering team operates year-round. Special menus are available for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
What are your standard serving hours?
Most locations serve daily from 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM (Sun-Thurs) and 10:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Fri-Sat).
Is there a loyalty program?
Yes! Sign up for our loyalty program to receive a free Hot Fudge Cake on your first visit and exclusive menu updates.
Do you offer vegetarian options?
While our menu focuses on barbecue meats, we provide vegetarian sides like Mac & Cheese, Green Beans, and Cornbread.
Can I order catering online?
Yes, visit the 'Buddy's Custom Catering' section of our website or contact your local restaurant directly for customized orders.