Really, everyone was wearing camo.

Bubbaque | Petaluma

Petaluma barbecue spot isn't fancy, but the 'cue is smokin

Epicurean Connection, Sonoma

Epicurean Connection: Sheana Davis is a Sonoma catering institution and nationally-known cheesemaker who recently opened her tiny deli in in Boyes Hot Springs (just outside the town of Sonoma).

Bluegrass Bar and Grill (Closed)

Bluegrass Bar and Grill's menu has some very solid contenders for the restaurant's assertion of "Best BBQ in Sonoma", namely the St. Louis Ribs ($16.99 half). These are a smoked and rubbed version, so the gloopy, gloppy is at a minimum, though sauce is served on the side. They're tender, fall-off-the-bone tasty with just enough spice to be noticed

Buster’s Southern BBQ

Authentic BBQ spot in Calistoga where a smoky tri-tip is the best way to go

BarbersQ | Napa

Haute-folksy barbecue with a definite Napa vibe

Red Rose Cafe | Santa Rosa

Puffing away quietly on the deck, the Red Rose Café's Southern Pride smoker tells you all you need to know. Where there's smoke there's BBQ.

Franzi’s Swiss Italian Deli

Without a second thought or even a napkin, I have scarfed down a sandwich the size of Cleveland--beef brisket covered in melty smoked cheddar with mayonnaise, pickles, onions and peppers on a sourdough bun.