Flying piggies at Charlie Vergos' Rendezvous

Memphis, TN

Do you like barbecue?  If so, make your way over to the little alley off of Union Avenue and South 2nd.  From what I hear from the locals, this place is THE BBQ place.   I read several reviews saying its rather hit or miss but I was willing to chance it for some good old Memphis bbq.  I think I went on a pretty good day, though I'm sure many have had much better experiences.

This place was packed to say the least.  We went on a weeknight for an early dinner and there was a 20 minute wait.  I don't think the private party that reserved the whole upper floor helped much either.  We stepped up to the hostess at the podium on the bottom floor.  I think she was a bit flustered with the large crowd and was a little cold to the parties ahead of us.  After leaving our name, we were directed to wait on the top floor or in the middle floor lobby area.  I was dining with an elderly family friend, so the climbing of the stairs wasn't so great for her.   Waiting wasn't too bad though because there were lots of fun things to look at (and the bar upstairs) to keep you entertained until your name was called. I was afraid that I wouldn't hear my name being called, but the lady at the desk calls for you over the speaker system, so you can hear her, even from outside.

We all made our way through the massive dining room that was covered in all sorts of decorations.  Sports memorabilia, photographs, fun light fixtures, and sporting equipment? among so many other things.  The atmosphere was quite fun but a bit on the noisy side. 


The menu is short and simple but you can't go wrong with lots of barbecued meats and sides.

Being the creative and unique individuals we are, my table ordered 3 of the Pork Ribs & Brisket Combination.  These came our relatively quickly, considering how many people where there that night.  The ribs were spiced to perfection but unfortunately were a little on the dry side.  The brisket had the same smoky spice rub and were very nice.  No large pieces of fatty stuff and thick slices of meat... mmm.  All of our meat definitely benefited from the extra barbecue sauces since they were on the drier side.  The bread was a normal hamburger bun, but was to awesomeness.  I'm not sure if it was the warm crispy crust and chewy insides or the fact that I love bread that got me, but mm mm mm.  :)  The mustard coleslaw left something to be desired.  I know it's a party favorite, but I didn't really like it too much.  The beans on the other hand were delicious.  Sweet, smoky tangy deliciousness.

This little bottle holds the Rendezvous magic.  It is a signature blend of tasty herbs and seasonings that is use on all of the meaty deliciousness.  For just $7, you can take one of these shiney bottles home to make everything taste like Rendezvous magic piggie meat.

So overall my dining adventure was a success.  Good food, excellent and friendly service, and a great atmosphere.  But just a few friendly tips.  Free parking was non-existent so it would be smart to make a visit to Beale Street and other local stores just to make a day parking pass worth it.  Drive around before parking too close to the restaurant if you want the cheapest local parking.  I found a little bank about 2 blocks away that was close to the restaurant and Beale Street for after dinner sight seeing and shopping.  If you are going for a visit with a larger party and have to wait for a table (especially with older family and friends) send one person down to the front desk to put your name down while everyone else finds a comfortable place to wait.  Don't worry about waiting outside in the alley at night- there are always tons of people and a police officer standing watch right outside the door!

Rendezvous is nice place for everyone.  It's a fun almost dive like place with lots of character and is really an experience.

Just a little snapshot of where the magic happens...

Overall, How Nuts Are We about Rendezvous?

Food: 4 coconuts.  The reheated leftovers were even better than what we ate at dinner!  I made sure to bring home the meat covered in extra sauce (which made the meat nice and juicy.

Service: 5 coconuts.  Our server made sure no cup went empty, we always had our fill of bread, and she was great with our questions and even helped us save money by suggesting the combos.

Repeatability: 4 coconuts.  The lady at the front wasn't very inviting and the meat could have started out a little juicier but I was very happy with my trip overall.