Comfort food doesn’t get much better than Bang!‘s on 32nd Avenue. This longtime favorite spot has delivered its homestyle dishes since 1996. And legions of fans—us included—flock for the bacon-draped meatloaf, gumbo with griddled jalapeño cornbread, and tender squares of spicy gingerbread.

At lunch, we’re often tempted by the shrimp po’ boy. The chewy French roll comes slathered with kicky Tabasco-mayo and jammed with fried shrimp and fresh lettuce and tomato. Tangy pickles cut through the fat and add brightness. And then, of course, there’s the haystack of fries begging to be dipped in the house-made ketchup (the sauce is so legendary, it was featured on Diners, Drive-In & Dives).

Extra: Love the ketchup’s tangy flavor? Pick up a jar of Sir Kensington’s, or make your own with this recipe.

3472 W. 32nd Ave., 303-455-1117

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.