Papa's Old Fashion BBQ

Pulling up to Papa’s Old Fashion BBQ feels like stepping into a quiet slice of Tennessee’s heartland. Nestled just off the highway in Erin, the air carries a smoky invitation that wraps around you before you even walk through the door. The pace here is unhurried and welcoming, a place where neighborly hellos and genuine smiles come as naturally as the scent of hickory-smoked meats drifting through the wooden walls.

Inside, the atmosphere is straightforward and comfortable—imagine worn wooden tables, friendly chatter, and a rhythm that feels perfectly in tune with the slow, deliberate craft of good barbecue. Whether you’re settling in for a breakfast purposeful enough to power a day’s work or grabbing a hearty lunch that feels like a warm handshake, the experience is rooted in simplicity and care. Plates arrive steaming, piled with familiar southern comforts, from tender smoked chicken and richly seasoned pork to sides that echo home-cooked traditions. It’s the kind of food that stays with you, quietly comforting without fuss.

The folks behind the counter seem to know the regulars by name—remembering preferences, offering recommendations, and making takeout orders feel personal. Outdoor seating adds an extra layer of charm on sunny days, inviting guests to savor their meal slowly, surrounded by the hum of country life. Papa’s Old Fashion BBQ isn’t just a stop for a meal; it’s a reminder of how good it feels to find honesty in food and warmth in small-town hospitality.