Nothing screams ‘Merica like racks of meat drenched in spicy, thick barbecue sauce. If you’re not gorging yourself on ribs, burgers and hotdogs on the Fourth, the CIA probably has a file with your name on it.

Kenny’s Smokehouse
Open 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 732 Maryland Avenue NE
This D.C. hole-in-the-wall is a favorite of President Obama. Boasting creamy mac and cheese, butter smothered corn, and to-die-for-brisket, Kenny’s is the place for classic barbecue. Plus, you can sit in the same seat as the Commander and Chief.

Hill Country Barbecue
Open 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 410 Seventh Street NW
Because nobody does BBQ like Texas, this D.C. ribs joint ships its sausage straight from the Lone Star state. Even the most pretentious barbecue snob will find little to complain about here — especially since its 7th Street location will be serving $1 jello shots to help celebrate the Fourth.

Smoke and Barrel
Open 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. at  2471 18th Street NW 
Just because you don’t eat meat doesn’t mean you don’t love America (well, probably). Smoke and Barrel understands that even vegetarians can have cravings for barbecue and their vegan chicken wings taste like the real deal. For the real carnivores they also serve plenty of pork and beef, along with a huge collection of bourbon.