Blog vs. Print
Here's an e-mail I got Tuesday from Jeffrey F.:
I live in Canton and I have tried Ray Lewis's place once. The beef brisket is okay but no where near as good as JD's Smokehouse brisket. The difference is quality is so great that I have not been back to Ray Lewis's. I am not sure if brisket does not count as BBQ as described in your article, but if it is I cannot respect the rest of the list and must assume you just picked places by name and advertising. That really sucks becasue I was looking forward to reading your article when I saw the headline and learning about some new places to eat. But now I just can't respect the list.
Dear Jeffrey F.,
I'm glad you sent me this e-mail because it gives me a chance to clear something up...
In print I'm expected to give pronouncements from on high and, rightly or wrongly, I do it.
The great thing about the Internet and specifically my blog is that it's a joint effort. I throw something out -- places I've tried myself or have heard have good barbecue, for instance -- and then readers comment on my list. Maybe they learn something, or maybe I do. (That JD's has good brisket, for instance.) Or both.
Also, be sure to go back and check for new comments on earlier entries if the subject interests you, like Robert's last night on Big Changes at Pazo.
Thanks for reading,
Elizabeth
Comments
A top ten list is tough if you don't have a large enough pool from which to draw. How many BBQ places are there in Baltimore. I think ten about covers it, unless you include pit beef stands.
Maybe Pit beef places should have been on the list. BBQ guru and Baltimore bred Steven Raichlen holds that Pit Beef is Baltimore's own BBQ, just as brisket is to Texas, Tri-tip is to California and pork shoulder is to western Carolina.
Posted by: Robert | May 25, 2007 8:39 AM
I wanted to comment on another factor about the online media: In the comments section about Pazo Michael Costa (I assume the real Michael Costa) actually commented. Online forums such as this blog give the reader a two-way medium to reach the subjects of the piece. I wonder how many other people who are the focus of this, or other blogs, read it and then comment/reply. Anyway- just thought it was kinda cool. (It would be really cool if Ray defended his BBQ!)
Posted by: Mather | May 25, 2007 10:40 AM