Gallo's Pit BBQ, Columbus

Gallo’s Pit BBQ lives by three words: “low and slow.” Though it doubles as a good tip for limbo, this phrase refers to a Southern-style barbecue method that begins by cooking meat languorously over a pit filled with lump charcoal and wood. Before meat meets flames, grillmasters rub each cut with their signature spice rub to create a flavorful crust that complements its tender insides. Finally, they slather on a tangy and balanced barbecue sauce, which they perfected with more than half a decade of tweaking and tasting.

After settling down in tall booths or long benches in the brick-lined dining room, guests devour platters of brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and pieces of chicken. They can also stick their forks into sides of made-to-order coleslaw and baked beans studded with bacon, brown sugar, and Kentucky bourbon.