Our Story
The Original
Neighborhood
Hang-Out
Dead End BBQ started as one big neighborhood block party, where over 40 locals came together to enjoy a community pig roast in honor of Memorial Day 2000. At first, this exclusive celebration was a coveted experience for select neighbors, who gathered to break bread and hone their barbecue skills at the end of a dead-end street. But by the next year, it evolved into an annual gathering, serving more than 500 hungry neighbors and community members.
“Friends and neighbors were always raving about the food and saying we needed to enter BBQ competitions. So, around 2004, we started on the national competition circuit and a few years later, we became the State Champions of Tennessee. Then, in 2008, we were selected to represent the state at the Jack Daniels World Championship Invitational Barbecue competition. After that national recognition, we knew we had a great product and decided to go for it. We opened a custom-designed restaurant space about a year later.”
The
Dead End
Rules
- Eat real, good, fresh, never-frozen food
- Enjoy your favorite beverage
- Always save room for dessert
- Let us cater your next gathering
- Enjoy the party!
Elevating the Community
Over the years, Dead End has evolved into more than just a place to fill up on traditional comfort food with a twist. It’s become a community staple—bringing picnic-style BBQ plating and a wide collection of Knoxville memorabilia to locals and visitors from all over the nation.
Beyond serving guests, Dead End continues to elevate its community by supporting youth programs, teaching the art of BBQ through cooking classes, and giving back to local organizations and causes (which you can learn about on the restaurant’s gallery walls). Today, Dead End’s goal is the same as it was on day one: To bring people together over great food.
“No matter where you’re from, the BBQ you grew up eating will always hold a special place in your heart as the ‘best you’ve ever had.’ We want to be the next best.”
Dead-ending (verb): The act of enjoying tender, competition-style BBQ and homestyle sides with others in your community
Thanks for choosing
Dead End BBQ!
Like the tunes you heard while dining with us? Join us on Spotify for backyard party-inspired playlists that are perfect for your next brunch, tailgate, or family gathering.