Smokin' Woody's combines a fun and friendly atmosphere with down-home Southern cooking fit for the family. Vintage ads and funky road signs adorn the walls, simple wooden booths and tables offer ample seating and a new patio out back provides an excellent summer option for diners. Owner and chef Calvin Woods opened the place in 2001, and focuses on creating fresh food with authentic taste.

Nearly everything on the menu tastes fabulous. The pulled pork sandwich, beef brisket and catfish fillet take top marks, with the baby back ribs, rib tips and Southern-fried chicken close behind. Woodys' barbeque sauce tastes nicely spicy and sweet with just the right amount of tang, and the sweet potato fries make an excellent side. Steaks, shrimp, turkey legs, burgers and salads can also be found, with desserts made fresh daily. Prices range $2-$4 for most sides and $5-$18 for entrees. Family buckets (enough for four to five people) offer great value at $23 for a rib and tip combo to $65 for four whole slabs of baby back ribs.

Centerstage Reviewer: Genevra Gallo