Our Original Italian-Style BBQ Spaghetti That Defines Memphis Tradition

November 12, 2025
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A Memphis Classic Born at Marlowe’s

Since 1974, Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant has been more than a stop for great barbecue — it’s been a true part of Memphis culture. Just one mile from Graceland, Marlowe’s has welcomed locals, Elvis fans, and travelers from all over the world.

And while our ribs, brisket, and shrimp have earned plenty of attention, there’s another dish that’s been quietly building its own fan base for decades — our famous Italian-style BBQ spaghetti.

This isn’t a passing food trend. It’s a Marlowe’s original that perfectly represents Memphis — soulful, creative, and full of flavor that brings people together.

What Makes Marlowe’s Italian-Style BBQ Spaghetti So Special

A Signature Blend of Southern and Italian Tradition

At Marlowe’s, our version of this Memphis classic starts with what we know best: real, slow-smoked barbecue. We blend tender pulled pork and our signature BBQ sauce — a recipe perfected over nearly fifty years — with a rich tomato base and just the right touch of Italian seasoning.

The result? A sauce that’s smoky, savory, and slightly sweet — coating every forkful of spaghetti in pure Memphis flavor. Each bite brings together two comfort food worlds: barbecue soul and Italian warmth.

How the Dish Became a Marlowe’s Favorite

From 1974 to Today: A Memphis Tradition

When Marlowe’s first opened in 1974, Memphis was alive with Elvis Presley Boulevard energy, live music, and the smell of hickory smoke in the air. Families came for ribs, tourists came for the pink limo rides, and everyone came for the atmosphere.

It didn’t take long for our Italian-style BBQ spaghetti to earn a loyal following. Visitors fresh from Graceland were surprised to find pasta at a barbecue restaurant — until they tasted it. Locals returned again and again, and soon it became one of our most talked-about dishes.

Nearly fifty years later, our spaghetti remains a staple — a dish that connects generations of families and fans through the same comforting flavor.

Why This Dish Represents the Spirit of Memphis

Memphis is known for creativity — it’s a city built on rhythm, soul, and bold ideas. Italian-style BBQ spaghetti captures that same spirit. It’s the perfect balance of Southern barbecue heritage and Italian comfort food, a combination that only Memphis could make famous.

Every plate tells a story about what Marlowe’s stands for: family, flavor, and authenticity. That’s why it’s been part of our identity since day one.

Visit Marlowe’s and Taste a Piece of History

If you’re planning a trip to Graceland or exploring the heart of Memphis, add Marlowe’s to your list. Come for the ribs, but don’t leave without trying the dish that’s been winning hearts since 1974.

Our Italian-style BBQ spaghetti is more than a menu item — it’s a Memphis experience that’s been connecting generations through good food and good company.

Stop by Marlowe’s Ribs & Restaurant on Elvis Presley Boulevard today. Pair our spaghetti with award-winning ribs or brisket and discover why this one-of-a-kind dish has become a Memphis classic.


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