Fox Bros Bar-B-Q - Atlanta, Georgia

There's been a lot more travelling than I'm used to, and that's really saying something for someone who strives to leave the country twice a year. The trips are mostly domestic, but they've come rapid-fire, month by month. In September there was a short trip to North Carolina, and in October we took a too-short trip north to Reno. November brought another blessing, a five-day fling with Hot-lanta.

A beautiful wedding is our main objective, but even the joy of watching a friend of 14 years walk down the aisle comes with its own bonus; Fox Bros BBQ. 

The parking is rough, but the side-streets are safe. The brick-red walls are unassuming, and the interior is so casual it's cool. Fox Bros is full of history, full of life, and best of all, it's full of south. 

Starting with a fatty slice of fall-apart, don't-need-a-fork, hours-under-the-lid-of-a-giant-grill Beef Brisket. Be prepared for this mouthwatering latticework of hexagonal morsels of meat held together by filigree fat.

You have two choices of sauces, but you can take 'em or leave 'em, as long as you try 'em. The barbecue itself is great with the sweet n' tangy original or spicy and stimulating.

Nice rack, too. The ribs are done right. Smoked with some outside char, baby-pink beneath. Both meats are heavenly with or without the sauce, and the phrase "southern by the grace of god" comes to mind as it melts in your mouth.

When the brisket is that good, the sides can get the shaft. Not here. The Mac n' Cheese is pure comfort, and the Collard Greens can steal the show. Just the right touch of vinegar, savory with bacon-ham, cooked with still a little crunch and no pulp. Collards aren't for everyone, but anyone can see that these are textbook perfect.

So full, can't eat another bite...yet there is always room for Banana Pudding. Creamy, fruity, wafery-sweet. Worth it. Sooo worth it!

Need more proof than my overly-enthusiastic endorsement? Food Network is filming at the next table over, and the parking lot yielded three of its precious spots to cameramen and very large vans. We even got a glimpse of Andrew Zimmern on our way out. If it's good enough for him, then it's good enough for me!