Philly's Best Barbecue

Philadelphia magazine: Pig Daddy’s
693 Burmont Rd., Drexel Hill
Pig Daddy’s offers the best of Missouri-style barbecue, perhaps the best part about that being you don’t have to go to the Show Me State to try it out. Kansas City-style pulled pork is a popular favorite here, but we’ve been told the St. Louis-style ribs (which are slow-grilled to perfection, and really nail down the distinctive flavor of the sauce) are the reason folks line up for Friday night takeout.


AOL City Guide: Famous Dave’s
1936 S. Columbus Blvd.
AOL’s editors admit it’s out-of-the-norm for a national chain to be the best of anything—but, they say, Dave’s is just so good they’re willing to overlook this one little issue. The portions border on enormous, whether your order a slab of ribs, barbecued pork or one of a variety of sandwich offerings, and they’re all slathered in Dave’s tangy sauce. Most entrées come with garlic mashed potatoes, cole slaw or cornbread, the perfect accompaniments to such a meal. Prices are reasonable, as well, especially considering you’re more than likely to leave with doggy bags full of tomorrow’s dinner.


Citysearch: Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse

7500 State Rd.
Lucy’s is, plain and simple, a Mayfair standout. The smoker is stoked full with hickory wood, which gives everything—from the ribs to the pulled pork sandwiches to the brisket—a complex, hearty flavor. The prices are affordable all the time, but the Monday evening all-you-can-eat barbecue buffet for $17.95 can’t be beat. We’ve heard stories that the cornbread at Lucy's is almost as good as the stuff you’ll find in Memphis, which should serve as reason enough for you to check out the place.


Around Town pick: Ron’s Ribs
1627 South St.
We dare you to walk down South Street past Ron’s Ribs and not go inside the small storefront barbecue  joint. And if you do, you’ll be smelling Ron’s delectable smoky scent on your clothes all day (trust us, that isn't a bad thing). The platters—which are easily enough to feed two—are slathered in a zesty homemade sauce, and everything you order is more tender than you can imagine. Also, if you’re feeling particularly naughty, order a side of mac’n’cheese along with whatever barbecued specialty to choose, it’s about as heavenly as it gets.

Contact Us