Best barbecue: Boss Hawg's

Being selected Best Barbecue in Topeka year after year never gets old for Boss Hawg’s owner Elizabeth Lumpkin.

“It always takes me by surprise,” Lumpkin said. “It’s exciting. This year is especially exciting since we won Kansas 150. This is like the cherry on top of the ice cream.”

To what do you attribute your win?

The food is always good, and we are one of the longest running independent restaurants in Topeka.

What makes you or your company stand out?

Everything starts from scratch. It’s always fresh, always homemade. Discerning people can tell. We do small batch cooking — something the chain restaurants can’t do. We are devoted to the quality of what we are making. I’d rather lose money and not a customer.

What do you consider to be your specialty?

Ribs, followed by burnt ends. We start with the best rib cuts we can find on the market. Then they are fully wood cooked. We don’t just add wood toward the end to give it the smoke flavor.

What changes have you made in the past year?

We have added new items to the menu. We added sausage to the menu, as well as the Cuban — pulled pork, ham, and cheese on Cuban bread. It’s really, really good. We are always looking for unique ways to interpret barbecue. Other things added to the menu are a smoked brisket fajita plate and

fried pickles.

What changes do you have planned for the coming year?

We are working on a new website, as well as getting all new digital HD flat screen televisions.

What do you like best about your job, business or being an owner?

There is a feeling of connectivity with the community as an independent restaurant. The feeling of being an integral part of the community is the best part of being an owner. Being a part of people’s lives and them being part of our lives is a great feeling. Food is a nurturing profession.