Summer is the time of BBQ and roadtrips. So why not combine them both and hunt down America's best 'cue joints. From Kansas City to the Carolinas, here's a list to start checking off.
JOE'S KANSAS CITY (KANSAS CITY, KANSAS)
This is one of Anthony Bourdain's top ten places to eat before you die, so you know it has to be good. Formerly Oklahoma Joe's, they recently got a name change but are still located in their famous gas station location. Everything here is good, but classics include the ribs, the Z-Man sandwich, and the burnt ends.
BIG BOB GIBSON BAR-B-QUE (DECATUR, ALABAMA)
Alabama barbecue is famous for one thing -- white sauce. This tangy, mayo-based sauce was first created at Bob Gibson. Started in 1925, they've won five Memphis in May World BBQ Grand Championships.
FRANKLIN BARBECUE (AUSTIN, TEXAS)
Recovering from a recent fire, Franklin is back in action. A place where you could once hire people to wait in line for you, owner and James Beard Award-winning Aaron Franklin is often credited with making the best smoked brisket anywhere in the world.
CENTRAL BBQ (MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE)
Memphis is famous for Elvis, the Blues, and dry ribs. At Central BBQ, no sauce is ever introduced into the pit, and their quality has made them a Memphis favorite for more than a decade.
SKYLIGHT INN BBQ (AYDEN, NORTH CAROLINA)
Often credited with the most iconic pork sandwich in the country, Skylight Inn is one of those spots on an America barbecue pilgrimage. As part of the Carolina whole hog tradition, they've been leading the way since 1947. This is simple barbecue done right.
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