Phil's BBQ- Located on Gravois in South County, this popular restaurant is always filled. Maybe it's the pig decorations or the service, but my money is on the food quality. The owners of Phil's are Italian and know how to make a mean spaghetti; my advice: order spaghetti as your side to your rib eye or pulled pork and you will not be disappointed.  They could have a larger selection of beers, but beggars can't be choosers - they practically let you eat a feast fit for a King on a peasant's salary. The one thing I notice about Phil's that makes it stand out is that the barb-b-que seems to be a tad vinegary tasting which adds a nice zing. If you are looking for a tangy bbq and awesome spaghetti, Phil's is your kind of place.

Pennie's BBQ- Also located in South County on Reavis Barracks Road, this medium-sized family oriented restaurant is well worth a visit...or two.  The owners of this joint have invested their money in great quality bbq and providing excellent prices as opposed to pouring money into the furniture, which, I think just adds to the true feeling of a good slab of ribs, beer and fellowship with friends and family. The servers are great, beer prices are relatively cheap ($2.00 for a beer on tap), and a great selection of food. The thing that makes Pennie's stand out to me is their unique approach on sandwiches: think ¾ of a foot long from subway loaded with thick slabs of meat and all kinds of topping goodies on the side. When they say "Jumbo Bacon Cheese Burger" they mean JUMBO.  Everything I have tried from here is great, from the Jumbo burger to the BBQ Polish Sausage to the Toasted Ravioli. Bon Appetit!

Barney's BBQ- Located off Manchester in West County, this family owned, seasonal joint popular for its outdoor seating on picnic tables. It is only opened on the weekends during the summer to help cut down prices.  It is slightly more expensive than Phil's and Pennie's, however, what makes Barney's different is its dry rub barb-b-que that is smoked for days.  Barney's offers take out if you do not wish to sit at the picnic tables. The cooks are generally pretty nice and food comes up fast. 

Pappy's Smokehouse- Located on Olive Street in St. Louis, this joint was given the title of St. Louis's best Barb-B-Que in 2008 by the Riverfront Times. The owner Mike Emerson has competed in various cook offs and has also barb-b-qued with Super Smoker's owner, Mr. Steele. Prices for a plate are around ten bucks and are very satisfying.  This is a great place to order food for a large group of hungry people, such as your family or your relatives who come into town for the fourth of July. Choose from sausage links, turkey breast, pulled pork, beef brisket, rib slabs or pulled chicken. The meat falls right off the bones and the sauce runs thick and plentiful!