When a restaurant regularly sells out of menu items before the day is done, they’re obviously doing something right. And at Belly Barbecue, it’s not uncommon for their ribs, sausages, and brisket to be gone before they can turn their sign from “open” to “closed.” Eating a meal here is an experience. Upon entering, you’re greeted with the sweet, meaty, mouthwatering aroma of Texas-style barbecue—and an incredibly kind staff who’s eager to help with your order. The meat’s cooked low and slow, and everything is made in-house with fresh ingredients—even the rubs, crafted using local cherry and oak wood. On my inaugural visit I tried the pork spare ribs, which fell off the bone and boasted a savory smoky flavor: the kind of ribs that make you say “mmm” with every bite. As for sides, the mac n cheese was velvety and perfect, and the cornbread muffin tasted how you would picture Southern cornbread to taste: soft, fresh, and buttery! Do not, I repeat, do not pass up dessert. The buttermilk chess cake—a classic American dessert that’s sweet (but not too sweet), creamy, custardy, and rich enough to share—was a perfect 10. If you happen to save some, it makes for a breakfast of champions! Wondering what else is on Belly’s to-die-for menu? Expect all the classics—collard greens, cheesy grits, baked beans, beef short ribs, slaw, and sweet potato pie—plus pulled mushrooms (for the veg heads) and a Brunswick-style stew. Just remember to arrive early! As of press time, they’re only open weekends from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.     

— by JULIE RYAN  |  photo by JYO Bhamidipati

The Citizen Vine photo by Holly Daley Photography. Garden of Eat’n photo by Francisco Chavira. Bacchus House Wine, Bar & Bistro photo by Taylor Allred ©stylereadersmedia. Other photos courtesy of their respective companies or organizations.

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MORE CHEESE, PLEASE!

— by Caitlin Emmett

Brighten up gloomy January days with the ultimate comfort food: mac & cheese.

Citizen Vine
845 Twelve Bridges Drive, Suite 145, Lincoln, 916-409-2361, citizenvine.com

MUST-TRY: Bistro Mac & Cheese

Bacchus House Wine Bar & Bistro
1004 East Bidwell Street, Suite 100, Folsom, 916-984-7500, bacchushousebistro.com

MUST-TRY: Mac & Cheese

Q1227 Restaurant
1151 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 1175, Roseville, 916-899-5146, q1227restaurant.com

MUST-TRY: Mac & Cheese

Franny’s Farm Table
311 Main Street, Placerville, 530-748-3671, frannysfarmtable.co

MUST-TRY: Loaded Mac & Cheese

Garden of Eat’n
1228 Galleria Boulevard, Suite 130, Roseville, 916-545-6252; 2000 Blue Oaks Boulevard, Suite 110, Roseville, 916-884-5634; 1850 Grass Valley Highway, Suite 320, Auburn, 530-999-0510, gardenofeatn.com

MUST-TRY: Broccoli Cheddar Mac

Corner Tavern & Grill
700 Glenn Drive, Suite 170, Folsom, 916-467-7800, cornertaverngrill.com 

MUST-TRY: Mac & Cheese