Latest local news, weather and high school sports for Tri-State area

PITTSFIELD, ILL. -- Pittsfield is home to one of the newest barbeque restaurants in the Tri-States.

Babes Smokehouse opened last fall on the town square and has become a popular destination for lunch and dinner.

Jeff Cox has been smoking brisket and ribs for years. But what started as his hobby is now the 'Babes Smokehouse,' located in the shadows of the Pike County courthouse.

Cox gets up at 3:30 in the morning each day to fire up the smoker. Meat like this marinates for 24 hours before hitting the fire. Click here to watch how the smoke experts prepare their ribs in advance.

Cox says good barbeque you find here comes down to the smoke, timing and the quality of the meat.

"Our goal is to provide every customer with contest quality barbeque so every customer eats like a top barbeque judge," Cox said.

Babes is unusual because you won't find a stove or oven in the kitchen. Everything is made in the smoker - from corn on the cob to baked beans. Click here to watch.

Jeff says the restaurant is named for his dad, Gary. Babe was a nickname. Cox's father and two brothers are also featured on the restaurant logo.

Babes Smokehouse is open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Babes is closed Sunday and Monday.