When Tim Bednarski opened a tiny barbecue joint inside an old cinder-block tractor shed in a Lowe’s parking lot back in January 2013, the skeptics probably thought he’d lost his mind.
After all, who puts a restaurant in a literal shack next to where people buy power tools? 🛠️ But the folks of Memphis quickly discovered that this humble spot wasn’t just serving food—it was serving up absolute magic on every plate.
Within months, Elwood’s Shack became a local legend, with lines stretching out the door and customers raving about the incredible flavors pouring out of that tiny kitchen.
How Elwood’s Shack Won Local’s Hearts
The secret to Elwood’s Shack’s meteoric rise? Authentic, scratch-made food with soul. From day one, Bednarski refused to cut corners, smoking meats low and slow and creating inventive dishes that pushed beyond traditional barbecue boundaries.
The fish tacos became an unexpected sensation—so popular that they’re now the restaurant’s bestselling item, outselling even the ribs and brisket that initially put them on the map.
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Customers who came for barbecue stayed for the Debris Po’boy, which won the Great Memphis Sandwich Showdown in 2016, beating out 31 other competitors from well-known establishments across the city. 🏆
Word spread like wildfire through Memphis neighborhoods. Locals couldn’t stop talking about the tender Memphis-style dry ribs, the incredible potato salad with its perfect mustard-mayo balance, and the BBQ pizza that somehow married two comfort foods into one unforgettable dish.
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The quirky atmosphere—complete with deer heads on the walls and picnic tables outside—only added to the charm.
By the restaurant’s 10-year anniversary in December 2022, Elwood’s had become such an institution that Bednarski opened a second location on Park Avenue, expanding from the original 1,100 square feet to nearly 5,000 square feet.
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The shack that started in a parking lot had conquered Memphis hearts one plate at a time.
Food Highlights
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Fish Tacos: Featuring perfectly blackened steelhead trout with a sweet and spicy marinade, these generously-sized tacos are packed with fresh toppings and have become the restaurant’s most popular item—customers often order multiples despite their substantial size
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Memphis-Style Dry Ribs: These fall-off-the-bone tender ribs come with Elwood’s signature dry rub that delivers incredible flavor without sauce, though barbecue sauce is served on the side for those who want it
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Debris Po’boy: The 2016 Sandwich Showdown champion, this juicy roast beef masterpiece is slathered with mustard and packed with tender meat that practically melts in your mouth
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BBQ Pizza: Topped with smoked pulled pork, onions, peppers, and a perfect cheese blend, this creative mashup has earned rave reviews and loyal fans who claim it’s the best BBQ pizza in Memphis 🍕
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Texas Brisket Sandwich: Smoky and slightly spicy with tender, fatty brisket that barely needs sauce—the meat quality speaks for itself
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Potato Salad: A Memphis favorite featuring loads of crunch from celery and pickles, dressed with a tangy mustard-mayo sauce that has customers ranking it among the best potato salad in the city
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Atmosphere
Step through those double doors and you’ll feel like you’ve walked into someone’s quirky backyard barbecue party.
The interior rocks a Southern roadside shack vibe complete with deer heads mounted on walls, rock-n-roll memorabilia, and a blues-infused aesthetic that screams authentic Memphis.
The space is tight but mighty—with just a handful of tables inside and picnic tables scattered outside in the Lowe’s parking lot. Despite the humble digs, the place buzzes with energy as customers pack in for lunch and dinner.
The friendly staff keeps things moving quickly even when lines form, and the whole experience feels refreshingly unpretentious and welcoming. This is the kind of place where the food does all the talking. 🎸
Bottom Line
Elwood’s Shack proves that incredible food doesn’t need fancy surroundings.
Visit for the legendary fish tacos, stay for the award-winning Debris Po’boy, and don’t skip the potato salad. The scratch-made barbecue and inventive menu make this parking lot gem an absolute Memphis must-try.
You’ll understand why locals keep coming back. ❤️
Address: 4523 Summer Ave (In Lowe’s Side Parking Lot), Memphis, TN 38122
📞 (901) 761-9898
🕔 Mon-Sat: 7 AM–9 PM, Sun: 8 AM–3 PM