Some clients and I would like to go out for a good BBQ dinner tonight. We know of a place in Georgetown, but would like to stay in the Tyson's / Reston / Herndon / Manassas general vicinity.

There was a place called Ben's Whole Hog, but I think it might have closed. Any other suggestions?

There's a Red Hot and Blue in Fairfax that's very tasty. They have other No.Va locations, too:

http://www.redhotandblue.com/locatio....htm#NVirginia

There is a Red HOt and Blue BBQ in Manassas, but it is listed as an "express" location, and I don't know what that means, if it is smaller than their regular restaurants, if you can sit down and eat or what. You might want to call them.

See website:
http://www.redhotandblue.com/locatio....htm#NVirginia

schlegal1 and I were posting at the same time...

There are a couple of places in Chantilly -- Famous Dave's which is a chain like Red Hot & Blue, and my son said a new one opened up called Willards. We are going to do Willards for take out this weekend, but I guess that doesn't help you now. Good luck on your choices.

ooo, Budman that is nice to know. My husband works in Chantilly and I will tell him about those BBQ places.

We've been to Famous Dave's here in NJ, and it's pretty good. We haven't tried Willards but will this weekend. I'll let you know.

We've been to the RW&B in Manassas. It's mainly a carry out, but you can order at the counter and sit at tables and eat. Our favorite RW&B is right off Rt 50 in Annapolis. They have waitress service & a bar -- just like a regular restaurant. We usually stop there on the way back to Jersey for a late lunch on Sunday.

Willards is FANTASTIC! I ate there four times when I was in that neck of the woods over a long weekend.

From a fanatic, I can honestly say it was close to the best I've ever had.

Another vote for Willards, it's the real thing.

A bit out of your way in Woodbridge is Dixie Bones. It's just off of I-95 for anyone making the trip north or south.

I must be one of the few people who isn't crazy for Red Hot & Blue. I loved their BBQ when they first opened in DC but when they came to Williamsburg a few years ago the food was, well, not very distinctive. Maybe quality varies between locations?

Thank you, everyone, for you suggestions.

We decided to go to Willards. We were not disappointed! Very good spot. I'd highly recommend it. Nothing fancy, but they know their BBQ.

Red, Hot and Blue is good in a pinch, but it has become a little watered down for my tastes.

If anyone thinks of others, let me know. I spend most of my time west of the beltway in Northern Va.