"Gene's is a BBQ joint in Kirkwood with dive bar energy. There are no TVs playing sports, but there is a gigantic red alligator hanging from the ceiling, multicolored lights, and jello shots. So when you want to sprinkle some life into another dreary weekday night, head here. And while this spot has a mashup of great smoked meats that dabble in Viet-Cajun flavors, make the lemon pepper wings a priority. They’re plump and fried to crackly levels with snappy skin, and the balance of citrus and spice is just right." - demarco williams, juli horsford, jacinta howard