Here it is... the most heavenly of all foods finally gets its own Only In Delaware Bucket List. I probably didn't survive the research it took to put this together. I'm now living in the land of collard greens, mac and cheese, and a continually running smoker. At least, I hope that's why I'm so warm...

Just kidding! I did survive, and found the best of the best when it comes to Delaware barbecue. I can promise you that I'm an expert in the field, having traveled the entire country and eaten BBQ in at least a dozen states. While it's hard to find truly amazing barbecue above the Mason Dixon line, there are a few spots in Delaware that make the cut as some of my favorite of all time.

Enjoy...

1. Karibbean Grill BBQ, Smyrna

At first, the idea of mixing Caribbean and BBQ frightened me, but the Jerk Chicken at Karibbean Grill made a believer out of me, and this one is probably my favorite Delaware barbecue restaurant.Must Try: Jerk Chicken3114 S Dupont Blvd

Smyrna, DE 19977

2. Locale BBQ Post, Wilmington

Locale's only been around for about a year, but it's certainly made its mark on Wilmington's Little Italy section. With a commitment to only the freshest ingredients used to make their barbecue, and a heavenly mix of spices and sauces, Locale is certainly a winner.Must Try: Homemade Pickles, Brisket1014 Lincoln St

Wilmington, DE

3. Meat Mechanics, Dover

Both of the Meat Mechanics locations in Dover serve up delicious barbeque, from ribs to pulled pork, and they mix up the menu daily If you stop in for lunch, you'll probably get to try something new!

Must Try: Pulled Pork Tacos, Baked Mac and Cheese1466 E. Lebanon Rd. or 1040 State Street, Dover

4. Philippine Smoked BBQ and Grill, Elsmere

Philippine Smoked BBQ is an unbelievably delicious take on classic flavors. This tiny shop is easy to miss as you head into Elsmere, so make sure you're looking out for it! They serve smoked turkey legs to die for, and other amazing little treats to round off your meal.Must Try: OMY Fingers - stuffed, bbq eggrolls, smoked turkey legs.1700 Kirkwood Hwy, Elsmere, DE

5. Mission BBQ, Dover

Mission BBQ is a new chain - yes, I said a chain - that opened its first Delaware location in Dover. They support the USO and First Responders, hence the name "Mission," so dining out here is for a good cause every time. Must Try: Brisket Sandwich, Ribs365 N Dupont Hwy, Dover DE

6. Fat Rick's, Wilmington Area

You've probably run into Rick and his smoker at parties, picnics and other Delaware barbeque events. Rick's operation was mobile for years, and now they've opened up a store that's open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM.Must Try: Hush Puppies, Ribs.1413 Foulk Rd

Wilmington, Delaware

7. Russell's Quality Food, Wilmington

One of the Yelp reviews of Russell's Quality Foods says, simply, "Russell is doing God's work." And honestly? That reviewer nailed it. Perfect collards, perfect pulled pork, unbelievably affordable (gigantic platters for $10? Yes, please.) and mac and cheese that you'll dream about can all be found at the tiniest Delaware barbecue joint. Try everything, you won't be disappointed.Must Try: Collards, Pulled Pork1204 Centerville Rd

Wilmington, DE 19808

Alright, I'm off to go track down some smoked turkey legs. If you're as into food as I am, you'll probably appreciate our Delaware Burger Bucket List, too.