Ever since this popular Compton barbecue spot opened an outlet on La Brea, it's shaken up the local 'que game. The team behind the Golden State teamed up with Kevin Bludso to bring his unique brand of Texas-style barbecue, with marvelous brisket, superb ribs, and a slew of great sides.

This authentic-as-you-could-get Texas barbecue has received accolades from the likes of Jonathan Gold. The by-the-pound system placed on trays, along with the bench-style seating, makes it feel right, but in the end, the smoky, tender brisket and other meat completes the deal.

Though the takeover was a little unsung, the new management behind the former Atwater Crossing is taking its barbecue seriously, taking cues straight from Austin's Hill Country. The by-the-pound brisket, ribs, and more are deliciously smokey, inbued with more flavor than most other 'cue's around town. Arguably the best brisket in town at the moment.

An old standard in South L.A., Phillips is old school barbecue done right. The flavor is spiceful, the meat is tender to the bone, and the sauce is righteous. What more could you want from a barbecue. Before the newer places opened up, Phillips was considered one of the best bbq spots in the city by Jonathan Gold.

An old Venice standby with an offshoot in West Hollywood, the word is a little mixed on Baby Blues. The Memphis-style ribs tend to get the most attention, while the brisket sandwich on ciabatta, while not perfectly authentic, is still great in a pinch for those living on the Westside.

Though the location of this barbecue might depend on the day, this farmers market mainstay around town. The style itself isn't Texas or Carolina, just a blend of everything. The pulled pork and the ribs are the things to order. Sundays at Atwater Village (10 a.m. - 2 p.m.), Pershing Square Downtown on Wednesdays, Century City Farmers Market on Thursdays, and Bank of America Plaza on Fridays.

The semi-outdoor location of this South L.A. barbecue spot makes the experience that much better. Order at the counter (with the smokers behind in the yard), and take a seat at the picnic style tables. The meat itself isn't revolutionary or mind-blowing, but sometimes digging into a tray of brisket and ribs is the perfect antidote to boredom. Cash only.

Just south of Chinatown and nearby Union Station, this hideaway of a barbecue spot has an impressive beer selection to boot. As for the meat? Stick to the brisket and the burnt ends, and douse it all in the sweet sauce. The pulled pork is also very good.

This Culver City barbecue spot won't win awards, but for the Westside, it's more than respectable. The variety platters are a good way to try a little of everything, from the rib tips to the brisket to the beef links. The sweet potato pie is the right way to finish a meal here.

This competitor to the Park's Finest is another Asian-style barbecue, this time infused with the flavors of Thailand. This is still American-style barbecue. Think baby back ribs, satay, brisket, and beef curry, all under one roof.

This Sherman Oaks restaurant is might be more known for its stellar beer selection, with an epic bottle menu, the barbecue is at least respectable. The brisket can range from very good to just fine, but with this kind of craft beer available, it's hard to complain.