"What were your first impressions when you arrived? On the front windows of this small, counter-serve spot in the Columbia City neighborhood, you're greeted by two flags: U.S. and Jamaican. Step inside and the day's barbecue menu, displayed on two screens will draw equally from both cultures. For a sense of the vibe, see the sign on the wall: "Be Nice or Leave." What’s the crowd like? People are as likely to swing by for takeout as they are to post up at the four covered picnic tables out front. Either way, it's a mellow spot. What should we be drinking? Lil Red is about the food, not the drinks. But you can grab a sorrel tea, a Kool-Aid, or a ginger drink to cut the smoke and meat. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. Barbecue expert Adrian Miller didn't name this one of his 20 favorite Black-owned barbecue restaurants for nothing, and it's hard to go wrong, but be sure to try chef Erasto Jackson's takes on both the American and Jamaican meats—whether that's the punchy and achingly tender jerk chicken with a side of caramelized plantains, or a properly smoked brisket and some mac and cheese. Finish with the rum cake. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? It's quick counter service, so transactional interaction is pretty limited: "Do you want jerk sauce or barbecue sauce? Tell me when to stop." What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? Come with a group, when you're all ravenous and feeling decadent. There's a lot to try and none of it is light eating." - Stefan Milne
