I grew up on KC barbecue, I'm a Kansas City girl, and when all's said and done, I think Kansas City has the best barbecue in the country.

My preference for local places would be:

1) Smokestack (also out on Holmes Road) by Fiorella's (loved that place since I was a kid)

2) Stephenson's Apple Farm Resturant where they smoke their brisket, etc. with apple wood (also a more upscale dining option, but wonderful Kansas City food, the sort I grew up with).