How long should I spend at Corky's Ribs & BBQ?

Plan on 45-75 minutes for a sit-down meal, depending on your group size and how busy they are. Drive-thru visits are obviously much quicker.

Is Corky's Ribs & BBQ good for kids?

Absolutely - they have kids' meals, highchairs, and a very casual atmosphere where messy eating is totally expected. Our kids love the pulled pork and chicken tenders.

Is there parking at Corky's Ribs & BBQ?

Yes, they have their own parking lot right at the restaurant. Just be aware that during peak dinner hours and busy seasons, the Parkway traffic can make getting in and out slower.

Do they have gluten-free options?

Yes, Corky's does offer gluten-free options on their menu. We'd recommend asking your server about specific items and preparation methods when you visit.

What's the difference between wet, dry, and muddy ribs?

Wet ribs come with their barbecue sauce, dry ribs are seasoned with Memphis-style dry rub, and "muddy" gives you both the rub and the sauce. It's a great way to try their full flavor range.

Corky's Ribs & BBQ

Duration

45-75 minutes (longer for large groups during peak times)

Best For

BBQ lovers seeking authentic Memphis-style ribs • Families wanting huge portions and kid-friendly atmosphere • Groups needing quick drive-thru option during busy Parkway traffic

Pro Tip

Order your ribs "muddy" style to get both the dry rub and wet sauce - it's the best way to experience their signature Memphis approach without having to choose sides.

About Corky's Ribs & BBQ

When you're craving authentic Memphis-style barbecue in Pigeon Forge, Corky's Ribs & BBQ delivers with their signature slow-smoked meats and generous portions. Located along the bustling Parkway, this casual barbecue restaurant stands out for smoking their ribs and pulled pork on-site for up to 15 hours, developing that deep, smoky flavor that serious barbecue fans seek.

The menu's star attractions are the ribs, available in three styles: wet (slathered in their tangy sauce), dry (seasoned with a flavorful spice rub), or "muddy" – a popular combination of both preparations. Portion sizes run notably large, making Corky's an excellent value for families or anyone planning on next-day leftovers. Their baked beans and coleslaw consistently rank among the better barbecue sides in town, and they offer local craft beers to complement the smoky flavors.

Pro tip: During peak tourist season (summer and fall), the Parkway location can get crowded, especially during prime dinner hours. Consider using the drive-thru during busy periods or arriving around 4 PM to beat the rush. Parking can be challenging when the restaurant is full, so plan accordingly.

The atmosphere keeps things casual and family-friendly, with efficient service even during busy periods. While Corky's Ribs & BBQ may not be fine dining, it's become a reliable go-to for visitors wanting quality barbecue after a day exploring Pigeon Forge attractions. The combination of well-executed Memphis-style barbecue, substantial portions, and convenient location makes it a solid choice for satisfying those barbecue cravings.

Last updated: February 22, 2026 • Based on 3,903 reviews

Amenities & Features

Fall-off-the-bone ribs with authentic smoky flavor and tender meatExceptional servers (especially Harriett, Megan, and Tracy) who provide attentive service with frequent drink refills and great menu suggestionsOutstanding value with generous portions—family of five ate for under $100Traditional Southern sides like fried okra and cornmeal-crusted catfish that taste homemade

Don't Miss

15-Hour Smoked Ribs

The signature ribs are smoked onsite for up to 15 hours using hickory wood. You can get them wet with sauce, dry with Memphis rub, or "muddy" with both - and honestly, the muddy style is our favorite way to experience their full flavor range.

Pulled Pork Perfection

The pulled pork gets the same long smoking treatment as the ribs and comes piled high on sandwiches or plates. We've never had a dry piece here, and the portions are so big you'll definitely have leftovers for later.

Drive-Thru Convenience

When the Parkway is packed and parking looks like a nightmare, their drive-thru saves the day. You can get the same great BBQ without fighting tourist traffic - just be ready to wait a bit during peak dinner hours.

Memphis-Style Sides

The baked beans and coleslaw consistently get rave reviews from our family and other visitors. They're not just afterthoughts - these sides are creamy, flavorful, and complement the smoky meats perfectly.

Local Craft Beer Selection

They feature local Tennessee craft beers that pair surprisingly well with the rich, smoky flavors. It's a nice touch that sets them apart from some of the more generic BBQ chains in the area.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Kids' meals, highchairs, and a casual vibe where messy eating is totally expected make this a stress-free dining choice for families. Our kids love the chicken tenders and pulled pork, and the staff is always patient with little ones.

Know Before You Go

Parking is available but can get crowded during peak dinner hours - consider the drive-thru during busy times
Bring extra napkins or wet wipes - ribs and pulled pork are wonderfully messy
They accept cards and cash, no reservations needed for walk-in dining
The restaurant is air-conditioned year-round, but a light jacket helps in cooler months after outdoor activities
Wheelchair accessible with parking available right at the restaurant

Opening Hours

Monday11 AM to 9 PM

Tuesday11 AM to 9 PM

Wednesday11 AM to 9 PM

Thursday11 AM to 9 PM

Friday11 AM to 9 PM

Saturday11 AM to 9 PM

Sunday11 AM to 9 PM

Best Times to Visit Corky's Ribs & BBQ

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend dinner rush 5PM - 8PM

☀️Relaxed

Tuesday & Wednesday evenings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Corky's Ribs & BBQ?

Corky's is open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM for dine-in. The drive-thru typically runs the same hours, but online ordering sometimes cuts off at 8:00 PM.

How much does Corky's Ribs & BBQ cost?

Expect to spend $10-13 for pulled pork sandwich meals, $25-30 for full racks of ribs with sides, and $12-18 for burgers or catfish plates. It's mid-range BBQ pricing but the portions are huge.

Do I need reservations for Corky's Ribs & BBQ?

No reservations needed - it's casual dining with table service. They also have drive-thru and takeout if you want to skip the wait during busy times.