When I visit a new town, one of the first things I search for is the "best barbecue in," and I usually find a great hidden gem. We're in a golden era of old-school smokehouse cooking, with most states having pitmasters that combine traditional craft meat cookery with modern flavors, and the best barbecue joints are often as humble as their roots. That's definitely the case for Kloby's Smokehouse in Laurel, a truly great off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Maryland. Located in a busy strip mall on the very outskirts of the Baltimore metro area, it's easy to pass it up in the car. But if you do, you'll likely be passing up on some of the best smoked meats in the region. Kloby's Smokehouse not only does all the classics right, but has a few unique twists on its menu that truly make it worth the drive from anywhere in the state.

Kloby's Smokehouse is just another storefront in a strip mall at first glance, but inside, this barbecue restaurant has a unique vibe that makes it the perfect choice for a night out. The bar here is particularly impressive, featuring a stunning array of spirits and beers for just about any drinker's tastes.

But there's one thing on everyone's mind when they go to a barbecue spot: How are the meats? The extensive menu offers six smoked meats - sausage, chicken thigh, turkey breast, pulled pork, beef briskets, and smoked ham - plus pork and beef ribs and slow-roasted chicken.

That's just scratching the surface, though. Those barbecue flavors work their way into massive specialty burgers and other sandwiches, and the large menu features inspiration from around the barbecue world, ranging from New Orleans po'boys to Tex-Mex barbecue flautas. Southern-style dinners are available as well, including Nashville-style hot chicken.

Have you visited Kloby's Smokehouse in Laurel, Maryland? If not, tell a friend about this article and jump in the car for a visit to this off-the-beaten-path restaurant in Maryland! You can see the full menu on the Kloby's Smokehouse website, and while you're in Laurel, make sure to visit Dinosaur Park, one of the most unique parks in Maryland. If you're stopping here in the middle of a long road trip, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Columbia/Laurel is one of the best places to stay in the area. I always pick this hotel chain when I travel thanks to the roomy suites with plenty of room for families, and the amazing free breakfast buffet every morning.