The Cookhouse

Inexplicably, Connecticut is home to some thumping-good barbecue joints. This is the current champ. It's set, appropriately enough, in a converted barn on often-tacky Route 7. Cast aside the diet for the day and start off with hush puppies or Nappy's Nachos, a plate piled with chips, pork, beef, jalapeños, and jack cheese. Continue, if you can, with ribs, chicken, pulled pork, or beef brisket, which are slow-smoked for 10 hours or more. They come with such bountiful sides such as baked beans, collard greens, and mashed potatoes. Separate menu categories list grills, fish, and "comfort foods," the last including burritos, fajitas, macaroni and cheese, and chicken-fried steak.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.