Bo McSwine is one of the reigning barbecue kings of the Bay Area. Although the restaurant is only about four years old, he's found his way to the top of the heap because of the high quality of his meat, which is from Niman Ranch. Like any barbecue place, the 36-seat dining room isn't fancy, but with a brown shingle exterior and a patio strung with lights, it's a comfortable place to be.
Cuisine: Barbecue Specialities: Smoked brisket and ribs. Seats: 36 Prices: $8.25-$13.95 Parking: Easy street Vitals: 3422 Mt. Diablo Blvd. (at Brown), Lafayette; (925) 283-7133. Lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday. Beer and wine. No reservations. Credit cards accepted.