The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint: Where Southern BBQ and Soul Converge
Step inside The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint—a Mississippi icon fusing inventive BBQ, quirky charm, and true Southern hospitality.
The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint: Mississippi’s BBQ Landmark
In the heart of Ocean Springs, along a stretch of Highway 57, lies a destination that has captured the taste buds—and imaginations—of both locals and travelers alike: The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint. Combining inventive barbecue techniques, award-winning flavors, an unmistakably quirky character, and the energy of live music, The Shed stands as an enduring testament to authentic Southern hospitality and creativity.
Overview: A Funky BBQ Experience
More than just a restaurant, The Shed is an experience. Uniting melt-in-your-mouth barbecue with a laid-back, rustic atmosphere adorned with witty signs, old license plates, and folk art, you’ll feel like you’re eating at a friend’s backyard party—if your friend happened to be a world-champion pitmaster. Patrons can expect large portions, a lively, unpretentious vibe, and the unmistakable scents of pit-smoked meat drifting through the air.
- Location: 7501 Highway 57, Ocean Springs, MS 39565
- Type of Cuisine: American, Barbecue
- Meal Services: Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
- Atmosphere: Casual, family-friendly, and music-filled
The Story Behind The Shed: Humble Beginnings, Big Dreams
The saga begins in 2001, when college student and entrepreneur Brad Orrison turned his knack for dumpster diving and junk collecting into a barbecue joint built—literally—on reclaimed scraps. What started out as a small, ramshackle take-out shed is now a 15,000-square-foot BBQ mecca with national recognition, media attention, and a reputation for both culinary excellence and unyielding character.
A Family Affair
From the outset, The Shed was a labor of love involving Brad’s sister Brooke Lewis and, ultimately, the entire family. Together, they transformed the humble joint into a barbecue legend and a must-stop eatery for foodies and music lovers traveling along the Gulf Coast.
Growth, Recognition, and Awards
Through years of hard work and innovation, The Shed has gone from a beloved local secret to a national sensation, featured on the Food Network and celebrated in barbecue competitions. The ultimate testament to their craft came in 2015 when The Shed won the World Grand Champion title at Memphis in May, one of the most prestigious BBQ contests in the world.
Atmosphere and Vibe: More Than Just a Meal
What truly sets The Shed apart isn’t just what’s on your plate; it’s the infectious spirit that fills the air. The haphazard, “thrown together and unplanned” look is part of its charm, creating a homey, inviting environment where guests dine on wooden benches, surrounded by music, laughter, and walls crammed with eclectic memorabilia. Don’t expect air conditioning—embrace the open-air authenticity, especially on sultry Mississippi days.
- Live blues performances are a regular treat, ensuring that every visit to The Shed is both a feast and a celebration.
- Outdoor seating and a welcoming attitude make it perfect for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.
The Menu: Legendary Barbecue and More
At the heart of The Shed’s appeal lies its steadfast focus on quality barbecue. Using all-natural ingredients, time-honored smoking techniques, and the very best commercial equipment, the kitchen produces consistent, crowd-pleasing classics every day.
Signature Meats
- Brisket: Smoked low and slow, sliced thick, and renowned for its flavor. Though some diners prefer a different cut style, many hail it as succulent perfection.
- Pulled Pork: Tender, juicy, and piled high—an enduring favorite praised for being so generous it makes a meal (or two) all on its own.
- Baby Back Ribs: Fall-off-the-bone tender, slathered in house-made sauce that’s tangy and bold.
- Sausage: Plump, perfectly seasoned, and finished in custom ovens for consistency.
- Chicken: Moist and smoke-kissed, balancing a depth of flavor with irresistible tenderness.
Homestyle Sides
- Mac n’ Cheese: Creamy and rich, though occasionally hit-or-miss in texture according to guests.
- Fried Okra: Crispy, classic, and pairs delightfully with BBQ mains.
- Potato Salad: Housemade, with a traditional Southern twist.
- Macaroni Salad: A refreshing, cooling counterpoint to smoky meats.
- Baked Beans: Sweet, savory, and a timeless barbecue staple.
Menu Flexibility
- Lunch, dinner, and drinks available every day.
- Special diet accommodations, including gluten-free options upon request.
Cooking Methods: Tradition Meets Modern Innovation
Preserving barbecue heritage while mastering high-volume service requires the right tools. The Shed takes pride in its pit-smoking process and finishing its proteins in advanced Cook & Hold ovens equipped with the innovative Halo Heat® technology. This technology ensures an even distribution of heat for peak flavor and consistency, even when the Mississippi heat outside pushes 110°F.
- Overnight smoking in custom pits infuses each bite with authentic Southern flavor.
- State-of-the-art ovens maintain moisture and tenderness while controlling costs and environmental impact.
Customer Experience: What Diners Are Saying
Patrons rave about the shed’s welcoming, down-home feel, huge portions, and unforgettable flavors. The array of positive reviews highlights key aspects:
- Atmosphere is “the best of any restaurant” for those who prefer comfort over formality.
- Ribs and pulled pork are standouts, often cited as highlight dishes.
- Brisket can be divisive—many rank it among the nation’s best, while a few suggest thinner slices or alternative seasonings.
- Family-friendly service and accessible parking add to the appeal for all ages.
- Occasional minor issues with side consistency (e.g., mac n’ cheese temperature), but overall satisfaction remains very high.
Award-Winning Legacy
The Shed’s accolades speak for themselves. Achievements include:
- World Grand Champion, Memphis in May (2015)
- Consistent honors in regional and national barbecue competitions
- Frequently earns the Traveler’s Choice award as #1 Quick Bite in Ocean Springs
Access, Amenities, and Hospitality
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seating | Bench and table, open-air (no AC), outdoor seating available |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, highchairs for toddlers |
| Alcohol | Serves alcohol, full bar |
| Parking | Ample, on-site |
| Credit Cards | Accepted |
| Takeout | Available |
| Live Music | Frequent, blues and local acts |
Shedheds Unite: More Than Just a Restaurant
The restaurant’s loyal following—affectionately called Shedheds—extends far beyond Mississippi. If you can’t travel to Ocean Springs, The Shed offers nationwide shipping of its sauces, rubs, and select barbecue specialties, meaning anyone can savor the flavors that made this joint famous right at home. The fun doesn’t stop at food: The adjoining Cozy Rosy Glamp Ground lets guests combine a culinary adventure with Gulf Coast camping, creating unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Where is The Shed Barbeque & Blues Joint located?
A: The Shed is located at 7501 Highway 57, Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39565.
Q: What are the hours of operation?
A: The Shed is generally open from 10:00 AM until 8:00 PM daily. Occasional holiday and special event hours may change, so it’s best to check ahead.
Q: Does The Shed offer gluten-free or special diet options?
A: Yes, gluten-free options and special requests can be accommodated.
Q: Is The Shed family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. The Shed offers highchairs, ample seating, kid-friendly options, and a relaxed environment perfect for all ages.
Q: Can I get The Shed’s barbecue shipped to me?
A: Yes! The Shed offers nationwide shipping, allowing you to become a “Shedhed” in your own home.
Q: Is there live music?
A: Live music, especially blues acts, is a beloved staple at The Shed. Check their schedule for upcoming performances.
Q: What makes The Shed’s BBQ unique?
A: Beyond the award-winning, pit-smoked meats, The Shed is defined by its quirky atmosphere, friendly service, and family-driven spirit. Consistency and quality set their barbecue apart.
Plan Your Visit to The Shed
To fully experience what makes The Shed a Mississippi treasure, plan plenty of time to relax, sample the variety of BBQ specialties, and soak up the buzzing energy. Whether you’re seeking world-class barbecue, a family gathering spot, or simply a dose of Southern soul, The Shed is ready to welcome you—one massive rib at a time.
- Parking is plentiful, and major credit cards are accepted.
- Seating is first-come, first-serve; expect a lively crowd, especially on weekends and music nights.
- Contact the restaurant directly for group bookings, special events, or catering options.
