Pig Beach BBQ Brooklyn

"The original location of the barbecue spot Pig Beach, known for its group-friendly outdoor setup, is shutting down. The final day of service at this location is December 30. Pig Beach also has other locations in Queens, Palm Beach, and an upcoming one in Louisville. It is praised for its Carolina pulled pork and sprawling outdoor seating." - Emma Orlow

"Pig Beach is a huge BBQ spot next to the canal in Gowanus. It's a classic warm-weather hang, and most of its square footage is devoted to an outdoor courtyard. Sit at a picnic table, and eat some pulled pork and brisket as you mingle with other strangers who also brought their dogs." - Team Infatuation

"Many of the BBQ spots on this list have outdoor space, but none of them can compete with Pig Beach. The courtyard at this restaurant next to the Gowanus Canal is about the size of a quidditch pitch. The best thing here is the very messy cheeseburger that you can get with one, two, or three patties. But if you want more traditional BBQ, get the sampler platter, which includes ribs, pork shoulder, and turkey. Come here in the summertime, when you can spend an afternoon drinking frozen cocktails with friends while feeding cornbread to other people’s dogs." - Neha Talreja, Hannah Albertine, Bryan Kim, Matt Tervooren

"Tickets are now on sale for the Brisket King NYC outdoor festival on April 21 from 5 to 9 p.m. at Pig Beach in Gowanus. More than a dozen local chefs will be competing." - Bao Ong

"It’s never fun to stand in line. Pig Beach understands that, and tries to make it as enjoyable as possible. Not only can you look forward to brisket, fried chicken sandwiches, and frozen cocktails once you get to the front of it, but TVs above the bar mean you can watch sports while you wait." - Matt Tervooren