While I was disappointed that the meat was served sauce-free, requiring an application by hand back at your own table from a squeeze tube, the meat is of excellent quality and portions are more then generous. You can't even find the thin slices of bread tucked underneath the huge mountains of sliced turkey, beef, pork, chicken, whatever...

The room-temperature sauce was shockingly good for such an unappetizing presentation. After some hesitation, I was squirting the stuff on liberally and enjoying the smoky, tangy flavor.

It is an old storefront cafe which feels like you are stepping back in time. You go inside and order at the walk up window. They wrap your order in paper. You can take it with you or eat it at the metal tables, but there is generally a crowd. The meat is rubbed with spices and is so tender it melts in your mouth. They have their own sauce that is a must try, but the meat is great without it. There is such flavor in the cooking process that you'll want to eat there and take some with you for later.

Don't expect to be impressed by the restaurant itself. It's in an old brick building in an old neighborhood with a simple marquis advertising the presence of greatness.

When you enter you join the back of a usually long line with only a small menu to tell you what's being served. Wait your turn, grab a plate, tell 'em what you'll have and let 'em slap it on the plate for you. Ribs, sandwiches, loose meat, brisket, if it's barbecue you're after, you're in the right place! The sandwiches are thick and served on simple white bread. You'll find Arthur's famous sauce on every table, both the mild and the hot variety (which incidentally isn't very hot, more a tangy sweet sauce that tops a sandwich nicely).

If a thick sandwich is what you're after, allow me to make a recommendation. A sandwich will cost you around $8 (sounds expensive but well worth the money). However, buy a pound of meat ($9.50/pound) and help yourself to as much bread as you'd like on a tray near the cash register. Find a seat and make your own sandwich. This way you can make nearly 2 1/2 sandwiches for a bit more than the price of one. There isn't much in the way of side items, but you will find fries and beans.

There's no question why Arthur Bryant's is constantly rated one of the best barbecue restaurants in the country. The meat and sauces ooze flavor that is so complementary that you'll long for your next visit back to Kansas City and to Arthur Bryant's.

Savor the barbecue and enjoy your visit!