CHARLIE VERGOS RENDEZVOUS - MEMPHIS

CHARLIE VERGOS - RENDEZVOUS

MEMPHIS, TN

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A visit to Memphis would not be complete without trying the ribs at Charlie Vergos Renezvous. Started in 1948 when Charlie discovered a coal chute in his basement, the place is now a bbq legend and destination restaurant. Located down an alley in downtown Memphis in a part of town that you may not want to walk alone at night, but very friendly when you get in the door. I was amazed when I hit the front door and walked down the stairs to the hostess. The place is huge with cubby holes full of tables going in all directions. There is also a long bar down the middle of the space with plenty of seats to drink and eat. The bartenders are friendly and fast. The pitchers of beer flow like water here. I tried the half rack and brisket combo. This is a huge portion that I could not even finish half. This plate will serve 2-3 people in my mind. The price was about $17. The ribs and brisket are served with warm rolls, cole slaw and baked beans. The ribs are slow cooked and covered quite liberally with a dry rub. The rub has a distinctive flavor and has some heat. I found the ribs to be a little dry. I added the hot bbq sauce and "wow" and big bold hit of flavor and heat to wake up the senses. I loved the hot bbq sauce. The brisket was moist and served over a large piece of bread. You can really taste the smoke bbq flavor in the brisket. Add the hot sauce and boom. Great taste. The cole slaw is tangy and a little too vinegary. I liked the baked beans. The staff at Rendezvous was great from the front desk to bartender and waiters. The place is electric with hungry patrons diving into ribs and cold beer.