Big Tom's Backyard Grill & Bar

Big Tom's Backyard Grill & Bar is a beloved family-owned BBQ restaurant located at 88 Mouse Creek Road in Cleveland, Tennessee. Founded by Tom and Sabrina Anderson, former high school sweethearts who met at Bradley Central High School in 1993, this restaurant embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and home-cooked comfort food. The Anderson family took over the charming location that was previously home to Jenkins Restaurant and Yesterday's at Willie's, maintaining the nostalgic atmosphere including the signatures on the wooden walls. The menu features an impressive array of smoked meats, with their famous smoked bologna being a standout favorite among locals. Adventurous eaters flock to try the legendary Big Tom's Big Porker—a massive sandwich loaded with smoked bologna, pulled pork, and chicken-fried bacon—or the Defibrillator, which combines Texas toast, pulled pork, a quarter-pound hot dog, and creamy Mac 'n' cheese. The restaurant employs 45 dedicated staff members, with seven Anderson family members working together to create what they describe as 'the gathering place where friends become family.' Live entertainment graces the venue every Wednesday evening, and the restaurant offers full catering services along with private event rentals for special occasions like weddings and birthday parties. Open Monday through Thursday 11am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday until 10pm, and Sunday 11am to 3pm.