Every time I visit my native state of South Carolina, I return to Boston a little rounder than when I left. Blame it on the butter (and the biscuits), but when you find yourself surrounded by delectable fatty foods fried in goodness, it’s hard to say no.

And fortunately (not for my waist), fried okra, BBQ and biscuits can also be found in many of Boston’s best restaurants. In fact, quite a few Boston-area eateries live up to the oh-so-delicious Southern nosh that I know and love.

And now, Thrillist is giving them the attention they deserve.

When the popular digital lifestyle magazine compiled a restaurant list of the 21 Best Southern Joints Outside the South, they weren’t messin’ around. Two of the best joints happen to be from Massachusetts and we’d say – deservedly so.

Thrillist’s list of best Southern joints included Kendall Square’s Hungry Mother restaurant (my go-to fave) and Somerville’s M3 restaurant. The Hungry Mother, well known for their scrumptious Cornmeal-crusted catfish and mason jar-filled atmosphere, is certainly one of the best Southern restaurants outside of the South that I’ve ever visited.

In terms of a Southern-style meat-and-three concept restaurant, M3 certainly has the Hub covered. And if you’re looking for some delicious fried okra and other tasty “veggies”, this is the place to be. The down home spot is one of the best restaurants to find this real deal of a Southern meal in the Hub.

Check out Thrillist’s full list Best Southern Joints Outside of the South and let us know your favorites in the comments below!