It doesn’t get much more southern than Kentucky’s famous fried chicken until you head a little further south to the ‘barbecue capital of the world’ Memphis, Tenn. for some basketball and, of course, some famous Memphis, fall-off-the-bone barbecue.

What better way to watch the Cats dominate than while eating at some of Memphis’ finest local barbecue joints? The Memphis Tourist Information Center gives a list of the top five barbecue places to try while rooting for the Cats.

Central BBQ, with two locations in Midtown Memphis on Central Ave and on Summer Ave, not only offers some ridiculously delicious and tender ribs, but they also offer a great local beer selection for the brew lovers, which can be  plentiful during tournament season. Central offers a fun and friendly atmosphere with a bustling patio and live performing bands on the weekends, weather permitting.

The Bar-B-Q Shop, located on Madison Ave. in Memphis, is a classic, Midtown Memphis barbecue joint with some deliciously tender slow smoked, dry-rubbed ribs and pulled pork. The Bar-B-Q Shop is a local, family-owned joint and is one of the highest rated barbecues in Memphis. They are also the founders of the original BBQ spaghetti and a great tourist restaurant to stop to try their award winning Dancing Pigs Bar-B-Q Sauce.

Cozy Corner Bar-B-Q is next on the list, located in Downtown Memphis in a slightly weathered strip mall, but don’t be fooled by the aesthetic . This family-owned restaurant certainly has a homey feel with ribs served on paper plates and plastic tablecloths. Of course, they serve some delectable ribs, but their Cornish game hen house specialty is what really makes Cozy Corner unique.

Blues City Café, last but certainly not least, situated on the corner of Beale St. is hard to miss with its extravagantly lit up exterior. Not only does Blues offer some tasty catfish and tender ribs, but they are also full of history. Blues features live music seven days a week and have even been host to some famous musicians such as Courtney Love, BB King, Kid Rock and R. Kelly.

Don’t deny the opportunity to try some delicious Memphis barbecue this weekend while cheering on the beloved Wildcats. Make sure to stop in one of these fine establishments to enjoy some Memphis ribs and brews while watching the game.