Grill Dishes for a Delicious Chicago Summer
Remember going to cookouts during the summer growing up? Summer cookouts were the best indication of fun memories, great company and even better food. And nothing says the start of summer fun like Memorial Day weekend! When it comes to Memorial Day, no one does it better than the Midwest (though we may be a bit biased). As summer approaches, restaurants are officially opening their patios and rooftops to celebrate the end of winter so give the grill master in your life a break this year and head to one of our favorite spots…
Smoke Daddy {Multiple Locations}
Everyone’s favorite BBQ joint, Smoke Daddy, is the perfect place to go for delicious grilled meats and classic cookout sides. Hop on over to one of their two locations and try the Smoked Meat Platter with your choice of 2 smoked meats including: brisket, chicken, pork or burnt ends. This place is definitely summer cookout approved!
Bluegrass {1636 Old Deerfield Road, Highland Park; 847.831.0595}
Gumbo, BBQ and so much more…you’ll feel like you’re in The South! Head over to Highland Park to get a taste of everything that makes Bluegrass, well… Bluegrass. Spend your Memorial Day munching on Baby Back Ribs that are dry rubbed and smoked daily for three hours paired with a side of smoked cheddar grits. Just don’t forget to grab a beer from their all-American beer list.
Mable's Table {1655 West Cortland Street, Chicago; 773904.7433}
Well-loved in our books, Mable’s Table is the perfect place for all things classic American eats. For your entree, try the 4oz. Reserve New York Strip with their Herb Steak Butter and get the Wild Mushroom & Truffle Parm Mae’s Macaroni and Cheese to share (or not). They’re Philly Cheesesteak (at left) is also not to miss! Located in the Bucktown neighborhood, this is the perfect spot for a laid back meal to escape from the craziness of Memorial Day.
Publican Quality Meats {825 West Fulton Market, Chicago; 312.445.8977}
If you need another excuse to purchase something from this Fulton River District favorite, we have you covered. Stop in and talk to their team - They’ll help you find your perfect cut of meat, along with unique sides. They even have Steak Grill Kits and Housemade Charcuterie Boards that you can order and make life extra easy. Add on beer, wine and other essentials for the perfect Memorial Day party.
Lyra {905 West Fulton Market, Chicago; 312.660.7722}
Bring the Mediterranean to your holiday weekend and try out Lyra, one of the best new Greek spots in the city! Start your meal with one of their Greek wines as you wait for your Tuna Tartare with fresno chili, kalamata olives and crispy kataifi. The order their Mykonian Anice-Crusted Pork Chops made with 600-degree himalayan sea salt, gremolata and florina pepper romesco. After you’re done you’ll want to board a plane to Greece immediately!
Smoque BBQ {3800 North Pulaski Road, Chicago; 773.545.7427}
A Chicago classic, Smoque in Irving Park,offers all the best BBQ has to offer. From ribs, brisket, pulled pork and more, it’s the perfect place to spend a Memorial Day weekend evening. Try their Sliced Brisket Sandwich with a side of slaw and BBQ beans for the ultimate cookout experience. Just make sure to come hungry - and grab extra napkins!
By Madison Freeman, Special Correspondent