"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 fried okra. We like their three-meat plates because you can sample their BBQ Big Three (brisket, pulled pork, and sausage) and 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