Spring Street Smokehouse

Nearly hidden in the weird no-man's land between Philippe's and Olvera Street, Spring Street Smoke House can be hard to find, but once you're inside the ambience is warm, unpretentious and inviting. More importantly, the barbecue is smoky and good! The St. Louis ribs and the hot links are the menu's standouts, as is the Best Beef sandwich, a pile of barbecued brisket drizzled with gorgonzola. Unlike most barbecue joints, you can also get fire-roasted veggies or green salad with raspberry vinaigrette. If you don't feel like a soda, there's plenty of Pellegrino water. At one time the smoked chicken sandwich even came with tarragon sauce and the sliced brisket included a side of au jus.

Bonus: the food costs significantly less than at most BBQ joints and the happy hour deals ($5 sandwiches and $3 beers) are killer. Plus, the selection of beers and ales is impressive.