A Taste of Tennessee in the Windy City: My Unforgettable Memphis BBQ Food Truck Experience

This post is sponsored by Tennessee Vacation.

Last week, my social media followers on Snapchat and Instagram (username: abeautifulplate) might have caught glimpses of my exciting adventure into downtown Chicago. I had the incredible opportunity to visit Corky’s food truck and experience my very first taste of authentic Memphis BBQ. It was a truly memorable and incredibly fun experience, one that has left a lasting impression, and I’ve been eager to share every detail with you ever since.

For those who have followed my journey, you know that food trucks and I share a deep, long-standing connection. My initial foray into the vibrant world of the food industry began behind the scenes, baking and decorating for a dessert food truck. This pivotal role offered me invaluable experience, not only in the bustling kitchen environment but also in directly serving customers on the lively streets of Washington D.C. These formative experiences were instrumental in shaping my career path, ultimately inspiring me to pursue further education at culinary school. As they say, the rest is history, but the passion ignited by those early food truck days continues to burn bright.

It goes without saying that food trucks hold a special, nostalgic place in my heart. The unique blend of culinary innovation, community spirit, and the sheer joy of serving delicious food on the go captivated me from the start. There’s an undeniable charm in the mobile kitchen, a direct connection between the chef and the customer that often feels more intimate than a traditional restaurant setting. Every time I encounter a food truck, it’s not just about the food; it’s a journey back to the roots of my culinary aspirations, reminding me of the dynamic and exciting beginnings that set me on this path. This personal history made the invitation to Corky’s food truck even more meaningful.

In anticipation of last weekend’s spirited Blues Festival celebration, the great state of Tennessee decided to bring a piece of its heart to Chicago. They sent up one of their finest BBQ food trucks, Corky’s, last week to spread both cheer and, more importantly, absolutely delicious food to the eager streets of the Windy City. It was a brilliant initiative, showcasing the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Tennessee.

When Tennessee Vacation extended an invitation for me to make an unusual mid-week trip downtown, not only to visit the truck and savor some delicious dry BBQ ribs but also to enjoy live music by the incredibly talented Southern Avenue Band (who were truly excellent and added so much to the atmosphere!), I literally jumped at the opportunity. The thought of soulful music, complimentary, authentic dry rub ribs, and the vibrant energy of a food truck event in the very heart of Chicago was simply irresistible. It promised to be an afternoon rich in sensory delights and cultural immersion. Yes, please!

I absolutely love moments like these – having the chance to photograph people, capturing genuine interactions and the lively atmosphere, rather than just focusing on food for a change! Documenting our life and travel adventures is a true passion of mine, and it’s one of my biggest goals this summer to share more of these exciting experiences and vibrant moments with all of you. This event perfectly aligned with that aspiration, offering a fantastic blend of culinary exploration and rich cultural expression.

Believe it or not, I could probably count the number of times I’ve truly tried or even properly eaten BBQ ribs in my entire life on one hand. I know, I know! To many, especially those who appreciate classic American cuisine, this might sound like pure blasphemy. I’ve never really considered myself a “rib girl,” often gravitating towards other dishes. But oh, wow. These ribs from Corky’s were absolutely phenomenal. From the very first bite, I was captivated.

They were incredibly tender, melting in your mouth with an explosion of rich, smoky flavor, and perfectly seasoned with that distinctive Memphis dry rub. The meat practically fell off the bone with the slightest nudge, a true testament to masterful slow cooking. I confess, I may or may not have stealthily snuck seconds, completely forgetting my previous reservations about ribs. This experience wasn’t just about eating; it was a revelation, proving that a truly well-prepared rib can convert even the most skeptical palate.

And speaking of sneaking around, I also managed to sneak onto the truck for some behind-the-scenes pictures! The hardworking owners and staff of Corky’s truck were so engrossed in serving the eager crowd that they barely noticed me quietly documenting their operation. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to prepare and serve food in a food truck, let me tell you, it’s exactly as small and cramped as you could possibly imagine. Space is a precious commodity, and every inch is utilized with remarkable efficiency. Yet, despite the tight quarters and the fast pace, there’s an incredible energy and a palpable sense of fun among the crew. It was a nostalgic trip back in time for me, vividly bringing back so many cherished memories of my own days working in a food truck. The dedication, the camaraderie, and the passion for food were truly inspiring.

As you can imagine, fellow Chicagoans were lining up in droves, pouring out from their nearby office buildings, all eagerly waiting to grab a bite of this authentic Southern delight. The line stretched, a testament to the irresistible allure of Corky’s BBQ. There I was, holding my camera, a succulent rib in one hand, trying desperately not to get a speck of that flavorful BBQ spice all over my face (or, even worse, my camera lens). It was a fun, chaotic, and utterly delicious challenge!

This event truly offered a vibrant and authentic taste of Tennessee culture and its renowned food right here in the bustling heart of Chicago. I felt incredibly lucky to be able to partake in such a unique experience and capture all of its lively essence. Despite being quite well-traveled, I’ve surprisingly never had the opportunity to visit the beautiful state of Tennessee. It has been prominently featured on my travel bucket list for many years, a destination I’ve long dreamed of exploring for its rich musical history, breathtaking landscapes, and, of course, its legendary food scene.

Fortunately, the stars seem to be aligning for a future trip to Tennessee. One of Connor’s close friends from medical school recently matched to a program in Memphis, which means we now have a fantastic reason (and a place to stay!) to explore the home of blues, soul, and, of course, incredible BBQ. Furthermore, one of my dear blogging friends, Lindsay, resides in downtown Nashville, providing yet another wonderful excuse to visit the state’s vibrant capital, known for its country music scene and thriving food culture. What’s even better is that Tennessee is only an eight-hour drive from Chicago – a journey that, while long, is entirely reasonable for a memorable road trip!

I often forget that I actually live closer to Tennessee now than to my hometown of Washington, DC, making this Southern state an even more accessible and appealing destination. Adding to the excitement, my sister and brother-in-law are planning their own trip to Tennessee later this year to celebrate their anniversary at another highly coveted bucket list location, Blackberry Farm. With all these connections and opportunities aligning, I feel like it’s definitely my turn next to explore this captivating state. If this past week’s experience with Corky’s food truck is any indication of what Tennessee has to offer, I have no doubt that I will absolutely love every moment of my visit. The rich flavors, the soulful music, and the genuine hospitality that radiated from this small slice of Memphis in Chicago have only intensified my desire to immerse myself fully in the Tennessee experience.

If you live in Tennessee or have had the pleasure of traveling there before, I would absolutely love to hear your recommendations! Please share your insights on must-visit places, hidden gems, historical sites, breathtaking natural attractions, and, of course, your top picks for things to eat and the best BBQ joints. Your suggestions will be invaluable as I plan my dream trip to this incredible state!

This post is sponsored by Tennessee Vacation. I extend my sincere gratitude for supporting brands and companies that make it possible for me to bring you unique, engaging, and authentic content like this!