18th and Vine Barbeque

This decidedly upscale Oak Lawn meat palace not only specializes in Kansas City-style barbecue (think sweet-glazed ribs and crusty burnt ends), but it also serves up an assortment of chef-created dishes such as grilled salmon served on smoked cauliflower puree, and burnt ends shepherd's pie filled with peas, carrots, and barbecue mashed potatoes. Barbecue aficionados will probably want to go with the "Whole Sha-Bang," which includes a pound of 'cue plus an app, two sides and dessert. Pair it all up with a spicy craft cocktail like the Mexicutioner, made with Cimarron Tequila, mezcal, jalapeno and pineapple.