BBQ isn’t just a summer food… It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for cozy gatherings or game days. That’s why it’s a great option to liven up a winter day, when reduced daylight and colder temps seem like they’ll never end (yep, even here in Knoxville).

If you’re looking for a local spot to enjoy a warm meal this season — or the perfect takeout for your at-home hibernation — our team here at Dead End Barbeque has got you covered. 

Read on for our top five recommendations for filling, flavorful dishes that bring the heat and comfort of southern BBQ during the colder months:

Our Top 5 BBQ Dishes to Warm Up Winter

Honestly, it’s hard to choose, but we’ve narrowed it down to these top Dead End BBQ winter favorites, in no particular order. (We’ll let you decide your own personal rankings!) 

1. The Smokehouse Stew

A hearty option with exceptional “warm-you-up” vibes is our Smokehouse Stew, a Dead End twist on classic southern Brunswick stew. Packed with tender pieces of smoked chicken, pork, AND sausage with fresh vegetables and potatoes, it’s the perfect antidote on any dreary day! 

2. The Hillbilly Chili

Let’s face it, good chili is a comfort food staple, hearty and chock-full of flavors to liven up your day. Our Hillbilly Chili stays true to our southern roots while adding signature Dead End BBQ flair: burnt brisket ends give it a smoky depth you just won’t get from traditional chili. But don’t worry, you can still expect delicious ground beef and beans, all slow-cooked with a secret Dead End blend of spices.

Seasonal alert: Get ‘em while you can! Since both our Smokehouse Stew and Hillbilly Chili are only on the menu from October through March, make sure you come by for a bowl (or a few) this winter.

3. The Spicy Chicken Wings

If you’re looking not just for warmth but for some real heat, these fiery favorites may be for you. And trust us, these aren’t run-of-the-mill chicken wings from any old sports bar; we start with the highest-quality chicken wings, coat them with our signature Dead End rub, and smoke them for at least four hours, then crisp them to perfection upon order.

Choose from lots of options to enjoy these premium wings: naked or sauced with your choice of classic Buffalo, spicy BBQ, or — for the truly brave — our Dead Hot sauce. We even offer a brisket-rub-tossed option.

Come in to enjoy the spicy wings in our unique atmosphere (complete with lots of local memorabilia and sports décor), or order online to serve up at home on game day!

4. The Loaded BBQ Baked Potato

Another option that will hit just right during winter involves two comfort food faves piled together: a tender baked potato smothered in your choice of Dead End BBQ meat (cooked to perfection) with all the fixins and Dead End red sauce drizzled on top! 

These Idaho Spuds are a limited-time menu item, back by popular demand, so come grab one to enjoy in our cozy dining room or take it home to enjoy by the fireplace!

5. The Build-Your-Own BBQ Platter

If you’re shaking off the winter blues at a gathering with friends, why not bring the heat with a custom BBQ platter from Dead End? When you offer a little variety, everyone gets to choose their own way to brighten up the season.

For options on items to include in your custom BBQ platter, check out our menu — and don’t forget the sides, drinks, and desserts!

The Search is Over, Knoxville

Winter can be an odd mix of dreary, cold days mixed in with the whirlwind of the busy holiday season. For all the ways you winter — from hibernation to holiday mode — Dead End BBQ has tasty options to keep you warm and well-fed.

When you find time to slow down, we’d love to have you dine in with us. But on those cold, busy holiday days? Curbside pick-up makes getting a hot, delicious meal easy. Either way, your search for winter comfort food is over. We’ve got you covered this season!