"Although Rene “Ray” Ramirez, the founder of Ray’s BBQ, passed away in 2022, his legacy lives on through his surviving wife Anabell, and sons Sebastian and Raul The team managed to preserve the same quality and distinct smokiness that kept Ray’s BBQ in business long before the newer wave of custom pit smokers became the norm. The marbled brisket is a must; the ribs have a wonderfully peppery crust that can be gently pulled apart by fingers or teeth. The baked beans are a meal on their own, while coleslaw detractors might be converted by Ray’s crunchy, lightly dressed version. The room is as casual as it gets with, many diners opting for a massive takeout box with various selections that are sure to impress their guests. — Mona Holmes, editor, Eater Southern California/Southwest Must-try dish: Brisket" - Mona Holmes