Abe's Bar-B-Q is a historic barbecue restaurant in Clarksdale, Mississippi, near the famous Blues Crossroads. Established in 1924 by Abraham Davis, a Lebanese immigrant, the restaurant has been serving mouthwatering barbecue to locals and visitors for nearly a century. Over the years, it has become a local institution and a must-visit spot for those exploring the rich culinary and musical heritage of the Mississippi Delta.
Welcome to the legendary Crossroads at Highways 49 and 61 in Clarksdale, Mississippi, where blues history and folklore come together in a unique and fascinating way. This is the very spot where, according to legend, Robert Johnson made his infamous pact with the devil, trading his soul for the ability to play a mean blues guitar like no other.
Right across the street from this fabled location, you'll find Abe's Bar-B-Q, a culinary institution that has been serving delicious barbecue since 1924. The founder, Abe Davis, is said to have surrendered his soul to Jesus in exchange for the recipe of his now-famous barbecue sauce. This story adds another layer of intrigue to the already rich history of the area, creating a unique juxtaposition between the blues and the good news.
Clarksdale has always been known for its strong connections to blues music and its vibrant culture. The town has produced numerous blues legends, and its reputation as the birthplace of the blues continues to attract visitors from all over the world. In addition to its rich musical heritage, Clarksdale is also celebrated for its delicious Southern cuisine, exemplified by Abe's Bar-B-Q.
When visiting the Crossroads and Abe's Bar-B-Q, you'll not only be able to appreciate the deep musical roots of the blues but also savor the mouthwatering flavors of Mississippi barbecue. This combination of blues history, folklore, and culinary excellence makes Clarksdale a truly unforgettable destination for anyone seeking to explore the vibrant heart of the Mississippi Delta.
Abe's Bar-B-Q is known for its distinctive blend of Southern barbecue traditions with influences from the founder's Lebanese heritage. Their signature dish is the "Big Abe" sandwich, which consists of slow-smoked pulled pork or chopped beef topped with coleslaw, pickles, and Abe's famous hot barbecue sauce, all served on a soft bun. In addition to the Big Abe, the menu also offers a variety of other barbecue dishes, such as ribs, smoked sausage, and chicken, along with traditional Southern sides like baked beans, potato salad, and fried okra.
The restaurant's unassuming exterior belies the rich history and culinary treasures that await inside. The walls are adorned with memorabilia, photographs, and newspaper clippings that tell the story of Abe's Bar-B-Q and its connection to the local community and the blues music scene. The laid-back atmosphere and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for first-time visitors and long-time patrons.
Located just a short distance from the legendary Blues Crossroads and the Delta Blues Museum, Abe's Bar-B-Q is an integral part of the Clarksdale experience. A visit to this historic eatery is not only an opportunity to enjoy delicious, authentic Mississippi barbecue but also a chance to immerse oneself in the rich history and culture of the region.
The open road stretched before us, beckoning us to embark on a journey of discovery and adventure. We set out from Vicksburg, Mississippi, the historic town known for its charm and Southern hospitality. Our first stop was the Corners Mansion Inn, a grand old mansion where we spent the night in luxury and indulgence.
The following day, we ventured to the Levee Street Marketplace, a vibrant hub of local culture and commerce. We strolled among the stalls, admiring the handcrafted goods and sampling the delicious fare of the Deep South. From there, we continued to the Vicksburg National Military Park, where we explored the hallowed grounds and learned about the history of the Civil War.
Our journey then took us to Rolling Fork, Mississippi, where we visited the Visitors Center & Museum and discovered the rich heritage of the Mississippi Delta. We also stopped at Mont Helena, a beautiful plantation home with a stunning view of the surrounding landscape.
As we made our way to Clarksdale, Mississippi, we drove along the Blues Crossroads Highways 61 and 49, taking in the sights and sounds of the region that gave birth to the blues. At the Delta Blues Museum, we were immersed in the area's musical history, learning about the legends who paved the way for modern music.
Our final stop was at the iconic Hollywood Cafe in Hollywood, Mississippi, where we savoured the flavours of classic Southern cuisine and basked in the ambience of a bygone era.
As we left Clarksdale, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm glow over the rolling hills of the Mississippi Delta. We hopped back in our car and made our way towards Tunica, eager to take in the natural beauty of the Mississippi River at sunset. The Tunica River Park did not disappoint - the tranquil waters were bathed in a golden light, and we spent a few blissful moments just taking in the scenery. As the sky turned from gold to pink to purple, we realised we were hungry and decided to head towards our final destination for the night, the Hilton Garden Inn Memphis East Germantown. The drive took us through some charming small towns, and we chatted happily about the memories we had made that day. Finally, we arrived at the hotel and were delighted to find a cosy room waiting for us, complete with all the amenities we needed to make our stay comfortable. We couldn't wait to explore Germantown and see what adventures the next day would bring.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
