Bar-B-Q Patio   

Sometimes the quest for great Texas barbecue takes you off the beaten path. A case in point is Bar-B-Q Patio, located in far southwest San Antonio. A rundown wooden wagon on the front lawn, large picnic tables on the tree-shrouded deck and whitewashed posts and window trim contribute to the eatery's countrified atmosphere. Inside the small dining room, tables with red-checkered coverings provide enough elbowroom to manhandle one of the Patio's tender and tasty barbecue plates. The restaurant's brisket has earned raves from Texas Monthly magazine. Part of the reason may lie in the almost scientific approach to cooking and smoking meat that Bar-B-Q Patio owner Maurice Kemp and his team swear by. Apparently, the delicate balance of mesquite, oak and pecan wood used is key. Pork ribs, turkey and chicken round out the meat offerings. A popular specialty is the Big Papa -- an Idaho No. 1 baked potato loaded with butter, cheese or onion and a quarter-pound of your favorite chopped meat. Sides include baked beans seasoned with polish sausage and cole slaw enhanced with celery seed and a sweet and creamy dressing. You may want save room for dessert, though. Peach and apple cobblers, pecan pie and Texas sheet cake brownies with chopped pecans are worth a little strategic self-control.