Red Dog Saloon

Red Dog Saloon is an American barbecue and sports bar that takes its smoke seriously. Hickory-smoked brisket and St Louis cut ribs are the point; the smokers and wood come from the USA, which tells you something about the commitment. Open daily from noon to eleven, it's the kind of place that understands barbecue doesn't apologise for taking time.

This is Austin-style barbecue done in the Midlands — straightforward, unpretentious, and built on the principle that if you're going to smoke meat, you do it properly. No shortcuts, no theatre. Just fire, hickory, and the quiet confidence of a kitchen that knows what it's doing.