If you're uncertain where the best barbecue restaurants are in your area (or even state), hop on the Internet and look for a website where they're ranked by the patrons. You'll find plenty of them for just about any decent-sized town or city, and you can add your two cents' worth, too.

Different barbecue restaurants may specialize in different types of barbecue, of which there are many: Mongolian, Texas, Kansas City, and Memphis, to name just a few. Don't be disappointed if what you get isn't quite what you're used to: different styles offer different dishes and sauces for you to enjoy.

Many barbecue restaurants offer catering as a sideline, which makes them ideal for the occasional get together or special event. Expect, however, for the catering to be plain and down to earth rather than fancy, and for it to cost a substantial amount per person.