The Fried Catfish at This Tennessee BBQ Joint Is Absolutely Legendary

Tucked off Park Ave in Lebanon, New Moon BBQ serves smoked classics in a quirky, down-home space that locals swear by. But the real legend here is the fried catfish, golden and crackling with every bite. If you have been chasing a plate that tastes like Tennessee tradition with a little honky-tonk charm, this is it.

Pull up around 11 AM, bring your appetite, and prepare to be converted.

1. Legendary Fried Catfish Platter

The catfish at New Moon BBQ is the story regulars tell friends to get them in the door. Lightly seasoned cornmeal crust shatters, revealing flaky, sweet fish that stays juicy to the last bite. A squeeze of lemon wakes it up, while the side of tartar adds creamy balance.

You get hushpuppies, beans warmed with a kiss of smoke, and that flat cornbread hoecake with butter. Dip into hot sauce if you like a little sting. If you are picky about fish, this one will surprise you.

It is the plate you order when you want comfort without compromise. Crispy edges, clean flavor, satisfying portions. Honestly, it is worth the detour.

2. Smoked Bologna Sandwich

If you have never tried smoked bologna, start here. Thick-cut, kissed by smoke, then grilled until the edges caramelize, it lands on a buttered bun that brings everything together. Add pickles for snap and a dash of hot sauce to make it sing.

This is humble food made with confidence, the kind of sandwich you remember on the drive home. It tastes like county fairs and backyard cookouts, with extra swagger. You will finish it faster than you planned.

Pair it with seasoned fries or beans for a full-on throwback meal. Order two if you are sharing. One bite and you will understand the hype, no explanation required.

3. Brisket Plate With Hoecake

Brisket can be a heartbreaker, but when it is on, it is exactly what you want. New Moon’s brisket leans tender, with a gentle smoke that does not bulldoze your palate. The slices glisten, and a little fat keeps things luscious.

Drag it through their hot sauce if you like a kick. Beans amplify the smoke, while the hoecake gives buttery contrast. You are here for texture and that slow-cook comfort that settles you down.

Some days it tastes like a backyard master put in the hours. On others, aim for the fattier cuts for more flavor. Either way, the plate and hoecake duo is a satisfying Lebanon staple.

4. Pulled Pork Sandwich

You come to Tennessee expecting a proper pulled pork sandwich, and this one checks the boxes. Piled high, sauced just enough, and easy to crush in a few minutes, it is the dependable order you can build a lunch around. Add slaw for cool crunch.

The sweet sauce leans thinner, so go light and layer the hot if you want more pop. The bun holds up well for a messy bite. It is familiar in the best way.

Pair with mac and cheese if you are feeling classic, or snag fries dusted with rub. It is comfort on a plate, no frills needed. Simple, satisfying, repeatable.

5. Smoked Wings With Buffalo Sauce

These wings steal the show if you love smoky heat. They start with a slow smoke that sets the meat up to fall off the bone, then a toss in buffalo sauce that clings and shines. Every bite is tender and loaded with flavor.

You will want extra napkins and maybe an extra order. The spice warms you without blowing your head off. Ranch or blue cheese cools it down perfectly.

Great for sharing, but honestly, order your own. Pair with cold sweet tea for balance. If wings are your metric for a place, New Moon clears the bar with ease.

6. Sides To Build Your Plate

Sides can make or break a barbecue meal, and here you build your perfect lineup. The beans bring sweet heat and smoke that complements any meat. Mac and cheese leans comfort, while the broccoli casserole and greens divide opinions but still draw loyal fans.

Coleslaw adds crisp relief when you are working through rich bites. The hoecake is best eaten in-house so it stays warm and buttery. Choose two or three, then see what you return to next time.

If you like a little adventure, try the seasonal specials. When everything lands hot, it ties the plate together. That balance keeps you going bite after bite.

7. When To Go And What To Expect

New Moon BBQ opens at 11 AM and runs until early evening most days, so plan a lunch or early dinner. Weekends bring steady traffic, but the laid-back pace is part of the charm. You will notice quirky decor, friendly servers, and plates that hit the table fast when the kitchen is humming.

Call ahead for hours and specials, especially fried catfish days. If you are picky about heat, ask for your sauce on the side. Parking is easy, and prices sit in that approachable middle.

Come with a craving and casual expectations. You will leave full and a little nostalgic. It is a Lebanon staple for a reason.

8. Tips For First-Timers

Start with the fried catfish and a side of beans to understand the local legend. Add a smoked bologna sandwich or wings if you are sharing, because both travel well across the table. Ask for the hot sauce and taste before you pour.

Hoecake is best fresh, so dine in if you can. If texture matters, request fattier brisket slices. For balance, bring in slaw or greens to cut through the richness.

Finally, keep it simple and follow your cravings. New Moon wins with comfort and portions, not fuss. You will find a favorite fast and plan a return visit.