I have to say in my opinion this area is sorely missing a really good BBQ place as compared to other parts of the country.
In Rockville proper I guess Urban BBQ is the best. Others in the area are Blue Ribbon (Redland), Red Hot & Blue (Derwood) and Famous Dave's (Kentlands).

YES!!! Little Pigs was THE BEST! I "dream" about it every time I drive through old Rockville. ) :

Not sure I count Red Hot and Blue or Famous Daves. . . they're both chains. The former is decent, but doesn't hold a candle to Urban BBQ. I haven't had Famous Dave's in years. Actually, I haven't eaten anywhere else on that list, but I've been meaning to.

Then again, I'm still doubtful anything can top Urban BBQ. Other than a place in Falls Church (Bubbas?) I had once, it's the best BBQ I've had in the area. And both of those are different styles, so not sure I can compare.

Nothing can touch Branded 72, all they use is hickory to smoke their meat. No gas, electric, microwave , etc. The building might be old but the food is fantastic. If anyone is a fan of corn beef, look no further.

I consider BBQ a hobby of mine. In addition to eating at every BBQ joint I can find in my extensive travels, I also work with a buddy to create spice rubs and smoke meat. I have to say, Branded 72 is legit BBQ from people who know what they're doing. All of their meats are flavorful, moist, tender and delicious.

In addition to traditional BBQ favorites such as ribs, pulled pork, pulled chicken and beef brisket, they offer some of the area's best smoked sausage and a wide array of other incredible meats, including corned beef, ham and turkey.

And the meat isn't the only thing that sets them apart. Their chili is awesome, their french fries are always hot out of the frier and crispy and their rice and beans, refried beans and other traditional BBQ sides are all good as well.

Branded is also a great member of the community. They stay open late (sometimes well past their listed 1AM close time) for and offer specials to the organizations that use Rockville Ice Arena. They do live music and entertainment on the weekends. The staff is friendly, kind and welcoming.

I wouldn't go anywhere else!

It is truly the uninformed nouveau 'cue enthusiast that even compares Urban or Branded '72 (formerly O'Brien's) to chain grub like Famous Dave's or Red, Hot and Blue. This is akin to comparing Five Guys to McDonalds. Puh-lease.

Branded '72 is some of the best bbq I've ever tasted. The portions are generous and the price is right. If you want REAL bbq, steer clear of chains and go for the real thing at Branded!

When O'Brien's became Branded '72 did the food change? I'm a huge fan of Urban BBQ, but I didn't particularly like O'Brien's. So, I'd like to know if I should give Branded a chance now that it's under new management.

Oh ... did you say "Little Pigs" ...
Rockville 1979 - 1981 for me :-
I worshipped that place

Someone must have a picture?