2025 Best Barbecue Restaurants in Chicago Area
The Best BBQ Joints in Chicago
The meaning of the term "barbecue" changes from one part of the country to another. From Texas to Kansas City and across the Southeast, barbecue means well-seasoned meat cooked "low and slow" over wood until it develops a pink "smoke ring." Memphis barbecue is especially known for its rubs. Texas prefers beef for barbecue, and pork is the basis of barbecue in the Southeast. Sauces and sides vary widely, too.Whatever your pleasure, try one of GAYOT's Best Barbecue Restaurants in Chicago, presented in alphabetical order.
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- Best Barbecue Restaurants in other cities
- Best Barbecue Wines
- Guide to BBQ
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1/
Bub City
City goes country at this whiskey and Southern joint in the heart of River North. See More
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2/
Chicago q
Renowned pit mistress Lee Ann Whippen’s Gold Coast digs prove barbecue has officially gone glam. See More
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Tried and true, this cozy rib joint is one of the city’s most popular spots for barbecue. See More
Two words sum up everything you need to know about Jake Melnick's: hot wings. See More
5/
Lillie's Q
A serious barbecue chef brings tried and true family dishes and recipes to District Brew Yards. See More
6/
The Patio
Baby-back ribs star at this southwest suburban restaurant with numerous area outposts. See More
Winning rib joint in the West Suburbs with a tongue-tingling hot sauce. See More
8/
Smoke Daddy
A mainstay for barbecue and live music since 1994. See More
9/
Smoque BBQ
Come as you are --- and bring the kids --- to this down-home barbecue pit. See More
One of the city’s most steadfast --- and beloved --- barbecue joints, once frequented by Frank Sinatra. See More
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Check out GAYOT's list of Best Spring Beers to find crisp brews, wheat ales and American IPAs. Check the list.
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