Alabama boys Mike Fernandez, Ben Gilbert, and Jeff Kennedy began Moe’s Original Bar B Que out of a doublewide trailer in Minturn, Colorado. Now, 19 family-run restaurants later, they’ve opened the newest outpost in Boulder—right across the street from the University of Colorado's largest dormitories.

The trio, along with local manager Mike Shelly, now offer barbecue (and whiskey, wine, and beer) where Suki Thai Noodle House used to stand. Using fruitwoods to impart a subtle, sweet smokiness into pulled pork, brisket, ribs, chicken, turkey, and even tofu, Moe’s pit masters turn out tender meats that pair well with an array of “Bama-style” sides. Try the vinegar-based, marinated slaw with pickled onions and peppers; the flavorful black-eyed pea salad, and the buttery, jalapeno-flecked grilled cornbread. (All are made from heirloom family recipes.)

Tip: If you think barbecue is all about pork and beef, you haven’t tasted Moe’s chicken wings.

Moe’s Boulder, 675 30th St., Boulder, 303-440-4227 (and other locations in Colorado, Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina)