With elegant restaurants like Union Square Cafe and Gramercy Tavern in his repertoire, Danny Meyer might come as a surprise as the man behind Blue Smoke, a sleek, casual barbecue joint packed nightly with a loud and boisterous crowd. But Meyer hails from St. Louis, and barbecue has been his longtime passion. This love of ‘cue shines through in saucy, meaty ribs; pulled pork sandwiches; and fried catfish, paired with super sides like smoky bacon-laced pit beans, messy slaw, and, for dessert, a perfect banana cream pie.

Blue Smoke Information:

• American menu. Lunch, dinner, late-night. Bar. Children's menu. Casual attire.