The 234 Apartment

Short on amenities but long on lore, some of New Orleans’ most popular bars might be considered dives in other cities. But here, bars with storied pasts, the patina of good times had and the anything-goes vibe of a diverse clientele are regarded as hallowed ground for their regulars. They are found in old buildings that had previous lives as homes or corner stores which imbues them with the sort of authenticity you just don’t find in newer establishments. While such institutions are the stomping grounds of locals, visitors are universally welcome, whether you show up for a late- night music performance or drop in for a drink during the middle of the day. French Quarter Aunt Tiki’s:  Don’t let the name fool you; there are no umbrella drinks here. And don’t even think about ordering one, the bartender might toss you out. What you will find is a worn sofa, a well-stocked jukebox and extra-strong cocktails at hard-to-beat prices. Who needs mai tais?  Chart Room:  When this local landmark ...

What Fort Worth needs is — another barbecue joint? No, really. Honey Smoke Pit is just what Fort Worth and West Seventh Street needed : a new barbecue place, bringing a still- unproven restaurant space back to life with a combination of credible Texas barbecue and ample craft beer . Don’t start lining up. Honey Smoke Pit ’s chef, chuck-wagon cook Rodney Lambert , is fresh off the madhouse opening of Smokey Mae’s in Mansfield, so he’s trying to keep Honey Smoke Pit running at a steadier pace and ramp up business in Montgomery Plaza. Lambert is back home in Fort Worth, where he started at the old Deer Creek BBQ , Cowtown BBQ and Fred’s Texas Cafe locations. Honey Smoke Pit keeps a little bit of all those restaurants: pork ribs with a little spice in the rub, juicy brisket with good bark, half-pound burgers and Lambert’s signature sides such as jalapeño-bacon mac-and-cheese, seasoned “ranch hand” beans and panko onion rings . A “Big Shot” platter ($17.99) comes with brisket, ribs, h...