Spicy, salty, sweet. It’s the combination of flavors that makes barbecue so amazingly good. And whether you like yours coated in dry-rub or slathered in sauce, Philadelphia has a number of restaurants that make a mean version of the all-American summer staple. – Chelsea Karnash

(Credit: http://www.tommygunns.net)

The location—sandwiched onto a miniature lot on Ridge Ave. near the edge of Manayunk—isn’t ideal, but the BBQ (particularly the sauce!) is deee-lish. Order the brisket and the fried mac and cheese from this tiny take-out spot, and don’t even think about the resulting spike in your cholesterol!

(Credit: http://www.sweetlucys.com)

Sweet Lucy’s serves up their ‘cue on Styrofoam trays, which is probably doing a disservice to the food. But the brisket and dry-rubbed meats get rave reviews, even from those who like their BBQ dripping in sauce. Oh, and the cornbread. Just try it—you won’t be disappointed!

(Credit: http://www.phoebesbbq.net)

5002 Umbria St.
Philadelphia, Pa.

www.phoebesbbq.com

This South Street BBQ eatery has been serving up oversized platters since 1994, and recently, they opened up a second location in Manayunk. It’s a true meat lover’s dream, but Phoebe’s also serves a number of Southern sides, including skillet cornbread and collards. A while some complain about the service, Phoebe’s ribs get many sauce-covered thumbs up from Philly taste-testers.

(Credit: http://www.percystreet.com)

Fans rank this the place to get BBQ in Philadelphia, and with their dry-rubbed and expertly smoked meat (sauces are on the side) it’s not hard to see why. Mouth-watering mac ’n cheese, flavorful meat falling off the bone and scrumptious pecan pie make Percy’s a must-try for any Philadelphian. But buyer, beware: you will pay a higher price for quality.

(Credit: http://www.pigdaddysbarbecue.com)

From the outside, Pig Daddy’s is nothing special, and the name is…well, interesting. Inside, however, you’ll find a massive menu of take-out items that even includes BBQ-style cheesesteaks and burritos (!!!). Frequenters of the place recommend the pulled pork and brisket, and one swears you’ll never eat another plain old Philly cheesesteak after trying PD’s chipotle BBQ-style sandwich. We’ll just see about that.

(Credit: http://www.lecochonnoir.com)

Southern transplants to Philly swear by this spot and it’s amazing, fall-off-the-bone, meaty goodness. Though the place attracts larger parties and often has live music acts that can make for some noise, the food makes up for any cons. Plus, there’s parking, as well as some healthy options for those that want to eat light.

(Credit: http://www.roseysbbq.com)

505 Old York Rd.
Jenkintown, Pa.

9 N. Main St.
Ambler, Pa.

www.roseysbbq.com

Complimentary pickles and pickled jalapenos. Refreshing sweet tea. Spicy coleslaw. And the “Spicy Crunchy” Turkey Sandwich! Rosey’s truly is “Southern Taste, Up North”: The meats are tender and juicy, with homemade BBQ sauces served on the side, and the signature dry-rub is great.