In Memphis it is common for BBQ joints to offer their ribs “dry,” without sauce, just a liberal sprinkling of spices and herbs. The most revered Memphis style dry ribs are served at Charlie Vergos’ Rendezvous (called “The Vous” by some fans). In fact, The Rendezvous is probably the most popular ribjoint in the world. It is easy to understand why.
Cool, dark, and classic, it's a step back in time to an earlier era. Few restaurants can claim to have singlehandedly created an entire barbecue category, but the Rendezvous can, for it's the birthplace of Memphis-style dry rubbed ribs.
After my dad and I had dinner at the legendary Rendezvous Restaurant in Memphis, I was inspired to create a slow-cooked version of tasty dry-rub Memphis ribs. Smoked paprika in the rub mimics the flavor that the ribs would get from being grilled over hot coals.
Founded in 1948, Rendezvous is crammed with memorabilia, romance, history, and you can't beat the location right downtown Memphis in an alley. Baby backs are the cut of choice, they are cooked hot and fast, and they are sprinkled liberally with their top secret seasoning.