BLUE DOG CRAFT BARBECUE – Restaurant

Central Florida rarely does Texas barbecue straight, but Blue Dog Craft Barbecue has since 2017, running its pit inside The Joinery food hall in Lakeland. Pitmaster Max Miller has been chasing the craft since 2015, and the counter shows it: brisket and pulled pork by the sandwich or the plate, ribs, and a pastrami Reuben that regulars single out. Sides stay honest: mac and cheese, baked beans, fried okra, collard greens, and a kale salad for balance. The food-hall setting means shared tables, a bar nearby and a busy room built for lingering. Open daily to nine, later on weekends.

Cuisine: Restaurant