According to folk etymologists, the term barbecue is derived from the French barbe coup, referring to an annual pig picking that commemorates the infamous Bearded Rebellion. Pick from less esoteric and more delicious fare with today's deal: for $15, you get $30 worth of authentic regional barbecue at D.B.A. Barbecue, a restaurant and bar on Highland Avenue.

D.B.A. provides authentic barbecue straight from the depths of an in-house smoker, and serves it all up in a casual, exuberant environment laden with southern comfort food, signature cocktails, and plentiful beer. Snuff burgeoning grumbles with a savory starter, such as fried pickles and bacon with ranch dressing ($4.95), or a bun-crowned beef brisket sandwich ($9.95). Save a seat at the table for a platter from the smokehouse, with two signature sides; baby back ribs come wet or dry ($14.95 for a half rack, $22.95 for a full), while the meat-averse can still enjoy the barbecue experience with a plate of smoked tofu ($10.95). Keep it local with Virginia Highland pulled pork ($10.95), then moisten your palate further as the smoked flavors meld with a side of fried okra, braised collard greens, barbecue baked beans, or grilled Texas creamed corn, to name just a few of the complementary possibilities.

The warm environs at D.B.A. cloister patrons in exposed brick walls, barn-wood paneling, and reddish-hued booths, and a covered patio provides the ideal middle ground between inviting the sun to the table and telling him to take off his distracting top hat and leave you alone. With delicious aromas emerging from a smoker and mingling among restaurant-goers, barbecue brings people together, whether they be old friends, new relatives, or a circus union of disgruntled roustabouts.

Reviews

More than 90 Yelpers give D.B.A. an average of 3.5 stars, and OpenTable diners give it an average of 3.7. Citysearchers average a full five stars, and 75% of Urbanspooners recommend it.

• The BBQ dishes are delicious and well-priced. But, what knocks it out is the fantastic and yummy selection of sides. My favorites are sweet potato crinkle-cut fries and garlic green beans. But, there are over a dozen that are just as good. – OpenTable reviewer who dined on 5/26/10
• Two words: Fried bacon. I still cannot believe it exists! This appetizer (paired with fried pickles) and the pimento cheese/bacon/tomato toasts were absolutely astounding. – OpenTable reviewer who dined on 5/15/10
• The amount of smokiness in the meat is perfect. Wings, brisket, pulled pork, and turkey BLT are amazing as are the side items...try the corn. – jcamp2, Citysearch