Best of Cleveland 2017: Tex-Mex Barbecue

Just a few years ago, Cleveland couldn’t hold a flame to other cities’ barbecue joints. But after Michael Symon’s Mabel’s BBQ opened in early 2016, other local chefs have been jumping on the meaty bandwagon. While it’s easy to get lost in the herd, Smokin’ Q’s BBQ & Beer House in Mayfield Village takes a Tex-Mex approach to its Lone Star barbecue. “I throw in a little Tex-Mex influence by adding chipotle, paprika and a pinch of cinnamon to the rub, instead of just salt and pepper,” says head chef Zach Ladner. Head farther south of the border by ordering your barbecue el jefe style. Presented like fajitas, your choice of meat — think Ohio-raised beef short ribs, beef brisket and Ohio Berkshire pulled pork — comes served on a platter with house-made corn flour tortillas, guacamole, salsa, pickled jalapenos and slaw. “Texas definitely had an influence on what I like to cook and what I like to eat — a lot of spice and acidity,” he says. “I could eat tacos for literally every meal.” 718 SOM Center Road, Mayfield Village, 440-646-0429, smokinqbbq.com