Percy Street Barbecue in Philly is another example of a modern, hip barbecue restaurant run by a Chef with a background in fine dining. From The Granary to Sweet Rack Rib Shack to Freedmen's, I have found that a lot of the best barbecue in America today is coming from these converted-to-smoke Chefs. I will not devalue the knowledge or skill of the old school pitmasters who have perfected their craft by spending every day over a pit for 25 years, but formally trained Chefs also have a deep understanding of flavors, spices and cuts while usually complimenting the meats with excellent sides, drinks and desserts.
Percy Street prides itself in serving authentic Texas style barbecue and brisket. I actually enjoyed the pulled pork the most and thought it could stand up to just about any pulled pork you will find. The other major draw for me at Percy Street is the beer selection. Percy Street boasts one of, if not the, largest canned beer collections in the US. That, in and of itself, is enough reason to stop in for a visit.