Comfort is the guiding principle at Rally Smokehouse. The cavernous 7,000-square-foot space is the epitome of inviting, with a large sports bar for diners looking to watch a game or two with a pint and a cavernous dining room better suited for families and casual gatherings. But the food is where the idea really shines through. The menu is big, with enough variety for every taste, but the best dishes are the Southern–inspired barbecue and comfort foods. Here's what to try:

• Appetizer: Pulled Pork Poutine — the classic Canadian dish with cheese curds and gravy, plus house-smoked pulled pork on top
• Entrée: Southern Fried Chicken — crispy buttermilk-battered chicken breasts topped with a decadent chorizo-sausage gravy
• On the Side: Mac 'n' Cheese — we said this was Southern comfort food, didn't we?