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Top BBQ Restaurants in Chicago for Meat Lovers

John Doe06 mins

1. Summertime Barbecue in Chicago

Although barbecue is a summertime essential, many individuals prefer to enjoy it rather than cook it themselves in scorching temperatures. Fortunately, Chicago offers numerous barbecue-focused establishments renowned for their expertise in smoking and grilling meats daily. For a memorable dining experience filled with great atmosphere, here are some of the best barbecue restaurants that Chicago has to offer.

Smoque BBQ

Courtesy of Smoque

Address: 3800 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60641, USA

Phone: +1 773-545-7427

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Smoque BBQ is a must-try in Irving Park, famous for its expertly smoked meats, including pulled pork and brisket, smoked for an impressive 12 and 15 hours respectively. Diners also rave about the Texas-style sausage made in Taylor, Texas, and St. Louis-style barbecue options. Their signature sauce sold by the bottle is a popular choice among barbecue lovers.

Chicago q

Sliced brisket on a plate with a tall slice of cornbread
Courtesy of Chicago q

Address: 1160 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610-2720, USA

Phone: +1 312-642-1160

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Chicago q offers a more upscale dining experience, attracting a business clientele with its fabulous in-house made sauces and rubs. Their standout dish is the Kobe sliced brisket, complemented by a selection of whiskey flights tailored to enhance the dining experience. Diners have the option to purchase their sauces to recreate the delightful barbecue flavors at home.

Fireplace Inn

six cheese burgers in two rows on a metal tray.
Photo courtesy of Fireplace Inn

Address: 1448 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60610, USA

Phone: +1 312-847-3947

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Located near the iconic Second City, Fireplace Inn is a longtime favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. This sports-oriented venue features large screens and spacious outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot to enjoy baby back ribs and watch the game in a casual atmosphere.

Green Street Smoked Meats

Ribs, brisket, pulled pork, a grilled chicken pinwheel, a grilled sausage, cole slaw, pickles, mac and cheese, broccoli and two slices of white bread on a parchment paper-lined tray
Courtesy of Green Street Smoked Meats

Address: 112 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607-2304, USA

Phone: +1 312-754-0431

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Green Street Smoked Meats is a casual yet trendy establishment known for its delicious smoked meats. The restaurant specializes in brisket, pork ribs, and pulled pork, complemented by a select craft cocktail menu. It shares its space with High Five Ramen, adding even more options for food lovers.

Honey 1 BBQ

rib tips with sauce and the edge of two slices of white bread
Courtesy of Honey 1 BBQ

Address: 746 E 43rd St, Chicago, IL 60653, USA

Phone: +1 773-285-9455

Honey 1 BBQ is a cult favorite known for its low and slow smoked ribs and chicken, tender pulled pork, and rib tips. Since relocating to Bronzeville in 2015, it continues to delight with its house-made BBQ sauce and decadent smoked dishes, keeping the local food scene vibrant and delicious.

Lillie’s Q

a slightly out of focus pulled pork sandwich missing one bite
Courtesy of Lillie’s Q

Address: 417 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60622, USA

Phone: +1 773-295-1270

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Lillie’s Q is recognized for its award-winning sauces and barbecue. This chef-driven destination is popular for its diverse bourbon selection, making it a favorite spot for sports enthusiasts looking to enjoy excellent food while cheering for their teams.

Smoke Daddy

Rack of ribs on top of two slices of bread with a pickle quarter on the side on a large plate. There is a basket of french fries, a plate of coleslaw and a glass of beer are next to the plate of ribs
Courtesy of Smoke Daddy

Address: 1804 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622, USA

Phone: +1 773-772-6656

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Smoke Daddy is gaining popularity, thanks to its recent renovations and an enhanced smoker. The venue stands out for its live music offerings and is best known for its slow-smoked ribs, smoked chicken, and pulled meats, with the smoked pulled meat nachos being a highlight among starters.

Twin Anchors

rack of ribs and some barbecue chicken on a plate with a bowl of baked beans, a small container of coleslaw and a pickle quarter
Courtesy of Twin Anchors Ribs

Address: 1655 N Sedgwick St, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

Phone: +1 312-266-1616

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Rich in history, Twin Anchors is located in an 1881 building and has welcomed iconic figures such as Al Capone and Frank Sinatra. Known for its fall-off-the-bone ribs and hearty steaks, this venue continues to attract locals and visitors alike, making it a staple in Chicago’s barbecue scene.

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