Unofficial as it may be, Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer in the South. While we swear by our low n’ slow-smoked barbecue dishes year round, there are a few Puckett’s eat that just taste better when school’s out, the sun’s shining and a beach vacation is on the horizon. Here are our top five go-tos for summer grubbin’ at Puckett’s:

#1 Cherry wood- smoked Baby Back Ribs. They’re dry-rubbed Memphis-style and served with smoked baked beans and potato salad… and we can hear them screaming ‘hey there, summertime!” from here. Bonus points if you eat ’em on a Puckett’s patio.

#2 Brisket Taco Salad. We call this one the “best of both worlds,” because our famous brisket comes on a bed of crisp lettuce with black beans, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, tortilla strips and BBQ chipotle ranch for an unexpected (and guilt-free) flavor pairing you’ll come back for again and again. Try it with our pulled pork or chicken!

#3 Fried Green Tomato BLT. Easy-and-quick to prepare, the BLT is the perfect lunch to pack for a day at the pool or the ballpark. We add our Puckett’s flair to this favorite with a fried green tomato and BBQ chipotle ranch. Go ahead and order yours to-go from your nearest Puckett’s location and we’ll have it waiting on ya.

#4 Puckett’s Cobbler. Contrary to popular belief, the summer months are NOT the time to skip dessert! Made fresh daily and varying in flavor by location, Puckett’s apple, blackberry, peach, cherry and blueberry cobblers are an absolute must after a good Southern meal. You’d be crazy to pass up a scoop of Hattie Jane’s ice cream on top, if you ask us! Check out our daily chalkboard specials and cobblers by location here.

#5 Puckett’s Brew. Ok, so this is more of a summer sipper, but what better way to cool down in 90 degree Tennessee temps? Our Puckett’s Brew was crafted by our friends at Blackstone Brewery specifically to complement our menu. That means you can’t go wrong with any dish to pair with this refreshing helles-style lager. Drop in for Tennessee Tuesdays at Puckett’s Franklin, Columbia, Chattanooga and Murfreesboro, when local beers and spirits are half-priced all day!