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5 Great BBQ Joints in Chicago

5 Great BBQ Joints in Chicago

5 Great BBQ Joints in Chicago

These five great BBQ joints in Chicago are some of the reasons behind the Windy City’s fame as a barbecue foodie destination. This is some of the great BBQ joints in Chicago. They are just waiting for you to discover them and enjoy what they have to offer.

Now you know some of the great BBQ joints in Chicago who are just iching to help you with your next BBQ craving. However, it’s important to let you know that this is not a complete list of the great BBQ joints in Chicago and that this list is in no particular order.


Want more ideas to round-out your restaurant search?
A lot of great options are in these posts!
Who Makes The Best BBQ in Chicago, IL?

1) Ella’s BBQ

Address >> 723 W Armitage Ave.
Counter-service place offering BBQ favorites & sides, plus burgers & tacos, in a casual setting.

Ella’s BBQ is undeniably one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue delights since its inception. What sets Ella’s BBQ apart is its commitment to authentic flavors and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Ella’s BBQ boasts a cozy, rustic ambiance that makes you feel right at home. The friendly staff is always ready to greet you with a smile, creating a no-frills, friendly dining experience. The restaurant is well-known for its commitment to traditional barbecue techniques, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

The star of the show at Ella’s BBQ is undoubtedly their tender and smoky barbecue meats. Their pitmasters spend hours slow-cooking their meats to perfection, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, Ella’s BBQ has you covered. Their signature sauce, a secret family recipe, adds a tangy and savory kick to each dish.

Here are 3 of their Main Menu Items:

1. **Smoked Brisket:** Ella’s BBQ is famous for its smoked brisket, which is tender and juicy. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with their signature sauce, making it a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast.

2. **St. Louis Ribs:** The St. Louis Ribs at Ella’s BBQ are fall-off-the-bone tender. Slow-cooked to perfection, these ribs are generously coated in their flavorful barbecue sauce, providing a delightful combination of sweet and savory.

3. **Pulled Pork Sandwich:** For a classic barbecue sandwich, the pulled pork at Ella’s BBQ is hard to beat. The succulent pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Ella’s BBQ offers a range of services to cater to all preferences. Whether you want to enjoy your meal in a cozy setting or take it to go, Ella’s BBQ has you covered. They provide dine-in options for those looking to savor their barbecue in-house. Additionally, they offer convenient takeaway for those on the move, and for those who prefer a contactless experience, they provide no-contact delivery. They are one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago.

Ella’s BBQ in Chicago, IL, is a standout barbecue joint that lives up to its reputation. With a commitment to traditional flavors, a cozy atmosphere, and a menu that includes mouthwatering brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, it’s no wonder this family-owned gem has earned its place as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Ella’s BBQ is a must-visit for barbecue lovers seeking an authentic and satisfying experience. They rank high among the popular BBQ joints in Chicago for good reasons.


2) Chicago Q

Address >> 1160 N Dearborn St.
House-smoked Southern BBQ plus a full bar & bourbon flights in an upscale setting.

Chicago Q is undeniably one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, offering a delightful culinary experience that captures the essence of authentic barbecue. This family-owned and operated restaurant has gained a reputation for its commitment to delivering top-notch barbecue dishes in a warm and inviting setting. When you step into Chicago Q, you’re stepping into a world where barbecue is king, and every bite is a flavor-packed journey.

What sets Chicago Q apart from the rest is its dedication to both traditional and modern barbecue techniques. The restaurant blends the smoky goodness of classic barbecue with innovative flavors, creating a harmonious fusion of the old and the new. The cozy ambiance, adorned with rustic decor, makes it a perfect place for families and friends to come together and savor exceptional barbecue cuisine.

Chicago Q is renowned for its tender and succulent barbecue meats, each dish meticulously crafted to perfection. Their signature sauce, a closely guarded secret, adds a unique twist to their offerings, setting them apart from the competition. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, Chicago Q has something special in store for you.

Here are 3 of their Main Menu Items:

1. **Texas Brisket:** Chicago Q’s Texas brisket is a true standout. Slow-smoked to perfection, it boasts a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with their secret sauce. The tender slices of brisket are a testament to their dedication to quality.

2. **Baby Back Ribs:** The baby back ribs at Chicago Q are a barbecue lover’s dream come true. They are fall-off-the-bone tender and generously coated in their unique sauce, offering a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors.

3. **Pulled Chicken Sandwich:** For a delightful sandwich option, the pulled chicken at Chicago Q is a must-try. The tender pulled chicken is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw, providing a delicious contrast of textures and flavors.

Chicago Q caters to a variety of dining preferences. Whether you prefer to enjoy your meal on-site, take it to go, or have it delivered with no-contact options, Chicago Q has you covered. They offer dine-in services, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Additionally, they provide convenient takeaway options for those on the move, and if you prefer a contactless experience, they offer no-contact delivery. They are absolutely one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago.

Chicago Q stands proudly as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, where the rich tradition of barbecue meets innovative flavors. With its family-owned charm, delectable signature dishes, and a range of dining options, it’s no wonder Chicago Q has earned its esteemed reputation in the Windy City’s barbecue scene. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Chicago Q promises an unforgettable barbecue experience that’ll leave you craving more. They stand out among the top BBQ joints in Chicago.


3) Honey 1 BBQ

Address >> 746 E 43rd St.
Hickory-smoked BBQ classics & BYOB in a casual, counter-serve storefront with wood tables.

Honey 1 BBQ is undeniably one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, offering a taste of authentic barbecue that stands out in the Windy City’s culinary scene. This family-owned and operated gem has been a staple in Chicago’s barbecue culture for years, and it’s not hard to see why. When you step into Honey 1 BBQ, you’re stepping into a world of smoky goodness and flavor-packed dishes that are sure to satisfy your barbecue cravings.

What sets Honey 1 BBQ apart is its dedication to preserving the traditional barbecue techniques that have made this cuisine famous. The restaurant takes pride in using real wood to smoke their meats, infusing them with a rich, smoky flavor that is hard to replicate. The no-frills, down-to-earth atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a welcoming spot for barbecue enthusiasts and families alike.

Honey 1 BBQ is renowned for its mouthwatering barbecue meats, all of which are cooked to perfection. Their signature sauce, a closely guarded family recipe, adds a special touch to their dishes. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, Honey 1 BBQ delivers with authenticity and flavor.

Here are 3 of their Main Menu Items:

1. **Sliced Brisket:** Honey 1 BBQ’s sliced brisket is a true masterpiece. Slow-smoked to perfection, it boasts a smoky flavor that melts in your mouth. The tender slices of brisket are a testament to their commitment to quality.

2. **Rib Tips:** The rib tips at Honey 1 BBQ are a crowd-pleaser. These bite-sized, flavor-packed morsels are a perfect balance of smoky and savory, coated in their secret sauce for that extra kick.

3. **Pulled Pork Sandwich:** For a classic barbecue sandwich, the pulled pork at Honey 1 BBQ is a must-try. The succulent pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw, creating a delicious harmony of textures and flavors.

Honey 1 BBQ caters to various dining preferences. They offer dine-in services, allowing you to savor their barbecue in their cozy setting. If you’re on the go, they provide convenient takeaway options for you to enjoy their barbecue wherever you please. Additionally, for those seeking a contactless experience, Honey 1 BBQ offers no-contact delivery, bringing their barbecue goodness right to your doorstep. They are another of the great BBQ joints in Chicago.

Honey 1 BBQ proudly holds its place as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago. With its family-owned charm, dedication to traditional barbecue techniques, and delectable signature dishes, it’s no wonder Honey 1 BBQ has garnered a devoted following. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a visit to Honey 1 BBQ promises an authentic barbecue experience that will leave you coming back for more. They deserve to be ranked high among the best BBQ joints in Chicago.


4) County Barbeque

Address >> 1352 W Taylor St.
A rustic-cool joint offers varied house-smoked meats plus updated classic sides, craft beer & booze.

County Barbeque is unquestionably one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, offering a delectable taste of authentic barbecue that has earned it a special place in the city’s food scene. This family-owned and operated establishment has been serving up mouthwatering barbecue for years, making it a go-to spot for those craving smoky, flavorful dishes that hit the spot.

What sets County Barbeque apart is its commitment to preserving the art of traditional barbecue. The restaurant prides itself on using real wood to smoke their meats, infusing them with a deep, smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate. The relaxed and welcoming atmosphere adds to its appeal, making it a popular choice for barbecue lovers and families alike.

County Barbeque is renowned for its succulent barbecue meats, all cooked to perfection. Their signature sauce, a closely guarded family recipe, adds a unique twist to their dishes. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, County Barbeque delivers an authentic and satisfying barbecue experience.

Here are 3 of their Main Menu Items:

1. **Texas-style Brisket:** County Barbeque’s Texas-style brisket is a true standout. Slow-smoked to perfection, it boasts a rich smoky flavor that melts in your mouth. The tender slices of brisket are a testament to their dedication to quality.

2. **St. Louis Ribs:** The St. Louis ribs at County Barbeque are fall-off-the-bone tender. Slow-cooked with precision, these ribs are generously coated in their secret sauce, offering a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors.

3. **Pulled Pork Sandwich:** For a classic barbecue sandwich, the pulled pork at County Barbeque is a must-try. The succulent pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

County Barbeque caters to various dining preferences. They provide dine-in services for those who want to savor their barbecue in a cozy setting. If you’re on the move, they offer convenient takeaway options so you can enjoy their barbecue wherever you please. Additionally, for those seeking a contactless experience, County Barbeque provides no-contact delivery, ensuring that their delicious barbecue can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. They are obviously one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago.

County Barbeque proudly stands as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, offering an authentic and satisfying barbecue experience. With its family-owned charm, commitment to traditional barbecue techniques, and mouthwatering signature dishes, County Barbeque has earned its place in the hearts of barbecue enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a visit to County Barbeque promises a memorable and delicious barbecue adventure that will keep you coming back for more. They have earned the rank of being one of the favorite BBQ joints in Chicago.


5) Earl’s BBQ

Address >> 4835 N Austin Ave.
Simple, rustic eatery with a drive-thru offering a typical range of BBQ meats & homestyle sides.

Earl’s BBQ stands as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, offering a delightful taste of authentic barbecue that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. This family-owned and operated establishment has been a cornerstone of Chicago’s barbecue culture for years, providing a welcoming atmosphere for barbecue enthusiasts to enjoy mouthwatering dishes.

What sets Earl’s BBQ apart is its commitment to preserving the art of traditional barbecue. The restaurant proudly uses real wood to smoke their meats, infusing them with a smoky flavor that’s hard to beat. The cozy and inviting ambiance adds to its charm, making it a go-to spot for families, friends, and barbecue lovers.

Earl’s BBQ is renowned for its tender and flavorful barbecue meats, each dish carefully prepared to perfection. Their signature sauce, a closely guarded family recipe, adds a special touch to their offerings. Whether you’re a fan of brisket, ribs, or pulled pork, Earl’s BBQ guarantees an authentic and satisfying barbecue experience.

Here are 3 of their Main Menu Items:

1. **Brisket Platter:** Earl’s BBQ’s brisket platter is a true masterpiece. Slow-smoked to perfection, it boasts a rich smoky flavor that melts in your mouth. The tender slices of brisket are a testament to their dedication to quality.

2. **Baby Back Ribs:** The baby back ribs at Earl’s BBQ are a crowd-pleaser. Slow-cooked with precision, these ribs are generously coated in their secret sauce, offering a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors.

3. **Pulled Pork Sandwich:** For a classic barbecue sandwich, the pulled pork at Earl’s BBQ is a must-try. The succulent pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Earl’s BBQ caters to a variety of dining preferences. They offer dine-in services, providing a cozy setting for guests to savor their barbecue. For those on the move, they offer convenient takeaway options, allowing you to enjoy their barbecue wherever you please. Additionally, for those seeking a contactless experience, Earl’s BBQ provides no-contact delivery, ensuring that their delicious barbecue can be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. They are considered one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago.

Earl’s BBQ proudly holds its place as one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago, delivering an authentic and satisfying barbecue experience. With its family-owned charm, commitment to traditional barbecue techniques, and mouthwatering signature dishes, Earl’s BBQ has earned its esteemed reputation among barbecue enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a visit to Earl’s BBQ promises a memorable and delicious barbecue journey that will keep you coming back for more. They deserve to be ranked among the leading BBQ joints in Chicago.


Chicago, IL is home to some of the great BBQ joints in the country. We’ve explored five great BBQ joints in Chicago, each offering its own unique flavors and experiences. From Ella’s BBQ with its family charm to Chicago Q’s fusion of traditional and modern barbecue, Honey 1 BBQ’s dedication to authenticity, County Barbeque’s commitment to preserving tradition, and Earl’s BBQ’s mouthwatering dishes, the Windy City has a barbecue scene that’s worth savoring.

But remember, these five great BBQ joints in Chicago are just a taste of what this city has to offer. The keyword, “one of the great BBQ joints in Chicago,” has led us to these gems, but there are plenty more waiting to be discovered. Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods hide many more barbecue treasures, each with its own secret sauce and smoky specialties.

So, the next time you’re in Chicago, don’t stop here; explore the city’s barbecue landscape, and you might stumble upon your own favorite BBQ joint in Chicago, each one a delicious chapter in this city’s rich culinary story.


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