Chicago Barbecue Hotspots: Where to Get the Best Ribs in the City

Chicago is a haven for barbecue lovers, offering a mouthwatering variety that caters to every taste.

Whether you crave sweet, smoky, or spicy flavors, there’s something for everyone. Some spots serve their barbeque wet or dry, while others let you decide with the sauce on the side.

This city embraces traditional barbecue styles as well as intriguing global influences, resulting in a unique Chicago style that stands out.

So, grab some extra napkins and dive into the delicious world of Chicago’s barbecue hotspots – your taste buds will thank you.

Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern

The Old Town favorite, Twin Anchors Restaurant & Tavern, is a long-standing player in Chicago’s barbecue scene.

Established in 1932, this place has retained its charm, even attracting famous faces like Frank Sinatra.

Known for its tender baby back ribs, this spot has been serving up this beloved dish for over 86 years, delighting both locals and tourists alike.

Harry Caray’s Tavern on Navy Pier

Indulge in hickory-smoked barbecue, local brews, and scenic views of Lake Michigan at Harry Caray’s Tavern.

Sporting a plethora of sports memorabilia, this spot on Navy Pier creates a laid-back vibe that suits guests of all ages.

Options range from dry-rubbed baby back ribs to bone-in pork chops and juicy burgers.

Dine indoors or enjoy your meal on the waterfront patio for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. This iconic tavern consistently serves up tasty and memorable dishes.

Slab BBQ

Slab BBQ reopened in South Shore, bringing back a beloved name that’s been part of the community for over two decades.

The moment you enter, you’ll see the impressive stack of wood, hinting at their smoking process.

Their ribs, available in half or full slabs, can be enjoyed with mild, hot, or no sauce to highlight the smoky essence.

Rib tips are a crowd favorite, known for their exceptional tenderness.

Lexington Betty Smokehouse

Adding a touch of soul to Chicago’s grill scene, Lexington Betty Smokehouse in Roseland stands out as a Black woman-owned gem.

Chef Dominique Leach, who shifted from classical cuisine to champion her own barbecue venture, serves as the pitmaster.

She smokes a variety of meats, from chicken wings to pork shoulder, perfectly paired with sides like collard greens, candied yams, and corn muffins.

Soul & Smoke

Soul & Smoke was founded by Chef D’Andre Carter, who transitioned from fine dining to create a smokehouse with a mission.

Known for its dedication to the community, the restaurant has provided over 250,000 meals to first responders and those in need.

Located in the Avondale neighborhood, inside the Rockwell on the River complex, it neighbors a brewery and a distillery, making it a central spot for food and drink enthusiasts.

The Smoke Daddy

The vibrant Wicker Park area is known for its array of top-notch dining spots, and The Smoke Daddy stands out among them.

With a laid-back vibe, this rib eatery offers a popular sidewalk patio and free live music every night of the week.

They smoke all their meats and veggies daily using their “Lil Red Smoker,” ensuring fresh flavors.

County BBQ

County BBQ is a cozy smokehouse nestled in Little Italy, perfect for happy hours and intimate gatherings.

They serve up smoked meats like St. Louis spare ribs, Texas-style brisket, and pulled pork.

The sides are just as comforting, including savory corn pudding and buttery biscuits.

Daily specials on food and drinks are a highlight, and they also offer a weekend brunch menu that’s sure to please. Michelin Guide has recognized their culinary excellence.

Bub City

Bub City delivers a lively fusion of bourbon, barbecue, and country tunes.

Their extensive menu caters to diners early in the morning with treats like beef brisket benedict and cheesy grits, and keeps the party going late into the night.

Don’t miss out on “the big pig” after dark, loaded with pulled pork, hot links, Carolina gold sauce, and jalapeños on a pretzel roll. This spot promises a great time with mouth-watering flavors and energetic music vibes.

Gyu-Kaku

Bring your appetite to Gyu-Kaku in Streeterville for an all-you-can-eat Japanese barbecue experience.

This interactive dining spot allows guests to cook their own meals over a smokeless grill with fresh ingredients brought by servers.

Diners can choose from an à la carte menu or opt for the AYCE (all-you-can-eat) selection, which includes a variety of appetizers, seasoned vegetables, prime cuts of meat, and marinated seafood. With tongs in hand, guests get to master their culinary adventure.

Honky Tonk BBQ

If you’re in Pilsen and want some smoky goodness, Honky Tonk BBQ hits the spot.

Willie Wagner, the owner, has earned numerous awards in BBQ competitions.

The lively venue often features live music on the Saloon Stage, including jazz, soul, bluegrass, rockabilly, and honky tonk tunes.

Lem’s Bar-B-Q

Located on the South Side of Chicago, Lem’s Bar-B-Q has attracted fans since 1954 for its exceptional smoked meats paired with their unique sauce.

Known for its informal takeout style, patrons often grab their meals and head to nearby parks or any convenient spot to enjoy their ribs, tips, and hot links.

Smoque BBQ

Smoque BBQ is a favorite in Irving Park, drawing both regulars and visitors.

Their beef brisket is particularly notable, and they offer a variety of regional styles like St. Louis ribs, Texas sausage, and Carolina sauce.

For families, they have mini-sized portions on the children’s menu, making it a great spot for all ages.

Green Street Smoked Meats

Green Street Smoked Meats sits in Chicago’s West Loop and is delivering some of the best BBQ vibes around.

The spot is set up in a trendy warehouse with a relaxed indoor/outdoor picnic feel.

Guests can enjoy brisket, pulled pork, and smoked salmon at communal tables, adding to the laid-back atmosphere. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a cold beer from their quirky kitchen sink setup.

Sun Wah BBQ

For an Asian spin on barbecue, Sun Wah BBQ is a go-to place.

This long-standing Chinese eatery offers Hong Kong-style barbecue dishes, all roasted in-house.

The menu is a paradise for meat lovers, featuring an array of chicken, pork, and beef options.

The standout dish is the Peking duck, which is expertly carved at your table. Their excellence was recognized with the James Beard Foundation America’s Classics award in 2018.

Lillie’s Q

Lillie’s Q serves up next-level Southern cuisine.

Positioned inside District Brew Yards, a unique space that houses several local breweries, it offers a distinct atmosphere for barbecue enthusiasts.

Chef Charlie McKenna, an award-winning BBQ master with numerous titles under his belt, ensures the menu stands out with exceptional flavors and quality. The experience is nothing short of mouth-watering.

Chicago Q

Not your typical barbecue spot, Chicago Q in the Gold Coast area stands out with its upscale decor. It features elegant leather couches and polished dark wood tables.

Helmed by the renowned chef Art Smith, who once cooked for Oprah Winfrey, this place promises a refined BBQ experience. Diners can enjoy top-quality meats seasoned with housemade rubs. All are served with a touch of Southern charm and hospitality.

Editorial Credit: Lou Stejskal shared under CC BY 2.0