Best Spots in Chicago To Enjoy BBQ This Summer
via Smoque BBQ
Chicago summer is about sunshine, baseball and quality time with friends over GOOD BBQ! If you’re looking to find the right place to celebrate the season, you’ve found the best list in town. Put on your stretchy pants and get hungry for our list of Chicago’s best BBQ…
Smoque BBQ {3800 North Pulaski Avenue, Chicago; 773.545.7427}
Brisket lovers—we found your match. Smoque BBQ has a reputation for their brisket smoked to perfect with a crispy flavorful char and soft center. Order your brisket sandwich sliced or chopped and pair it with their slaw and baked beans.
All of their sauces and rubs are homemade in-house and that’s what we call—a sweet local picnic. Savor every bite at this neighborhood spot!
Frontier {1072 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago; 773.772.4322}
Two words: Beer Garden. Frontier has one of the most unique settings for dining out BBQ style—right in Wicker Park/Bucktown, but you’ll feel like you’re on a ranch out West. The inviting space is just a plus, because their food is even better.
Their menu is made for sharing and sampling some unusual meats. If you’re dining with friends or looking to try more than one of their meats, order a Carving Board like the Land & Sea which comes with Beef Ribeye, Crab-Stuffed Branzino, and Elk Shank. Without question—get a side of their Burnt Ends Mac to share.
via Smoke Daddy
Smoke Daddy {Multiple locations; 773.772.6656}
Enjoy this classic BBQ, homestyle. The Smoked Meat Platter at Smoke Daddy is the perfect one-person order with two meats, two sides and of course, a pickle. While it’s safe to say this meal will fill you up, a side of onion rings fried to perfection might be just the addition you need. If you’re extra hungry, order the Burnt End Deviled Eggs to share.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that Smoke Daddy hosts live music in their Wicker Park location every Friday night so plan your weekend accordingly. Nothing beats live music and BBQ.
Lexington Betty’s Smokehouse {756 East 111th Street, Chicago; 708.927.5614}
With Chef Dominique Leach at the helm, this famous food-truck-turned-restaurant is truly a hometown must-visit. Chef Leach is a nationally recognized pitmaster and Chicago native. The thought of their Smoked Chicken Wings has our mouths watering already, and you can’t go wrong with the classic Pulled Pork Sandwich either. Save room for dessert—the Banana Pudding is to die for.
via Green Street Smoked Meats
Green Street Smoked Meats {112 North Green Street, Chicago; 312.754.0431}
If you’re looking for a hoppin’ spot to bring your friends on the Fourth, get in line at Green Street Smoked Meats. With Sawada Coffee up front, a bar in the middle and BBQ in the back, you’ll get the city buzz with this homey meal. Order the Elote-Style Corn to pair with a half pound of Pulled Pork for yourself. Or, order a few different style meats to share with the table.
String lights loft over the picnic tables for the perfect ambiance you and your friends are looking for—bring cards, you’ll want to stay here for a while!
Soul & Smoke {Multiple locations; 847.859.2732}
Looking for flavor fireworks? Soul & Smoke is bold and soulful like the name suggests; the perfect combination for a weekend celebrating life and liberty.
If you love a good Chicago Dog or are looking for a good one, you must try their 'Nduja Sausage, topped with Smoked Onions and Gold Sauce on a Potato Bun. Grab a side of Heirloom Grits or their Signature Mac + Cheese. We’re already feeling nostalgic about this meal.
BONUS: If you’ve always wanted to taste the best BBQ from all over the country, get your tickets to the Windy City Smokeout on July 12-14. Enjoy live country music from the likes of Carrie Underwood, fresh top-notch meats and sides, and all the good Chicago summer festival vibes you don’t want to miss.
By Daisy Bolin | Special Correspondent