"Ray’s Real Pit BBQ Shack has been around since 1984 and is the best Third Ward spot for consistent barbecue. Ray’s is a key part of the neighborhood–usually, this joint is filled with regulars whose weekly ritual includes coming here for a loaded brisket baked potato, and folks craning their necks to catch glimpses of a football game between forkfuls of smoked mac & cheese. We like their four-meat plates because you can sample their best—brisket, pulled pork, and sausage—along with sides like sweet hushpuppies filled with corn, and smoky baked beans that make us yearn to live a rustic cowboy lifestyle." - gianni greene, chelsea thomas