Why go: This backwoods ’cue joint is the real deal—a shack where the only tables are picnic tables. Place your order, then watch the pit men cleave chickens and ribs and shred pork butts into thin, charred ropes as smoke from the pit—Charles County is the nearest county to DC that allows open-pit barbecue—rises high above you.

What to get: Pulled-pork sandwich with Mama Sophie’s red sauce and coleslaw; ribs; pulled pork.

Best for: A weekend drive with a delicious reward at the end.

Insider tip: Order the pulled pork and take it home to make sandwiches for the week. And ask for a large container of Mama Sophie’s red sauce—it’s marvelous on leftover chicken, too.

Open Wednesday through Monday for lunch and dinner.

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