New York

I decided to live high on the hog and enjoy one of my favorite BBQ delicacies, the pulled pork sandwich with a side of beans and see how the competition matched up. Jakes on the Columbia waterfront is usually my go-to guy for BBQ delivery but he let me down this time. The pork was dry which is just inexcusable. (PPS $8.95, SOB $3.95). Sorry Jakes, ain't goin' back. In fact, I tossed out your menu. So I stumbled over to The Smoke Joint in Fort Greene to try out their fare (PPS $7, SOB $3). The sammy was decent but I found the beans lacking. Beware the can of Porkslap beer. You will be tempted but do not order one. Next time though, I'll get the beef short rib which I hear is amazing. The best deal is Bar BQ in the South Slope. On Monday's they do free bourbon and $2 Blue Point pints from 7-9:00pm with live music. (PPS w/ SOB $9.00). You have your choice of Carolina Vinegar or Sweet BBQ sauce and they concoct their own batches of hot sauce. Damn tasty (and drunk) times!

Photo:  Andy Heidel

OK, let’s clear this up first thing—it’s not THAT kind of smoke joint. But the food they serve here is just as addictive. Founders Craig Samuels and Ben Grossman decided to create their idea of what a real New York BBQ place should be, and so far it looks like the locals have taken to their vision. Their in-house smoker (oh, it’s THAT kind of smoke!) makes sure that the flavor of the wood really infuses the fall-off-the-bone ribs, all of the sides are solid, and the customer service makes you feel right at home (last time I was there, one of the owners was running food out to customers). They’ve even got sweet tea. One thing I can guarantee—you won’t walk away from this joint with the munchies.

Photo:  Kyle Haden