Southern Barbarian

Known as much for its 80-plus beer selection as for its food, Southern Barbarian has become an institution since moving downtown in 2007.

We considered listing it in our “Food to Drink By” category for its beer list, alone. But the food can stand on its own.

Try Southern Barbarian's famous spicy garlic chicken wings or the potato pancake, a crunchy mass of shredded fried potatoes.

Another favorite is the Crossing the Bridge Noodle. They taste like the noodles you'd have at a Yunnanese friend’s home. 

Our only complaint: we just wish Southern Barbarian served bigger portions.

Another route to deliciousness is the signature fried goat cheese. The restaurant goes through an average of 180 kilograms of goat cheese a year. Order a plate and you’ll see why.

Between bites of goat cheese, slip in a bit of Southern Barbarian's mint salad and cold eggplant. Both are simple dishes that complement each other -- the mint heating up your mouth while the eggplant cools things off.