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Local picks

Barbecue spots in Illinois

Barbecue that relies on the smoke and the meat, not a heavy-handed sauce to hide the process.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
336 Korean BBQ image 1
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Restaurant

Tables have individual grills and exhaust hoods for clear air. Meats are undeniably good and steamed egg is tasty. Friendly service helps first-timers feel welcome in a modern, spacious setting.

Meats come out undeniably good and the steamed egg is very tasty. Staff stays attentive, especially for first-timers at Korean BBQ.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the pork belly, is the best I've ever had."

"The kimchi here is really good and flavorful."

"I considered this the best Korean Barbecue I had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located in a small strip mall and can be easily missed.

2

The restaurant and bathrooms are very clean.

3

Portions are larger than at other Korean BBQ places in the area.

02
Smokin BBQ on 45 image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small, cozy spot offers rich ribs and spicy pulled pork at great prices. Checkerboard tablecloths and Motown tunes create a laid-back vibe perfect for families. Guests enjoy card games, adding to the social atmosphere.

Ribs, jerk chicken, and burnt ends stand out with rich flavors. The pulled pork sandwich with spicy barbecue sauce and brisket rank among the best in the area, all at prices lower than nearby spots.

People are saying

"I thought the BBQ here was the best I'd had."

"The pulled pork here is so moist and tastes great."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited due to neighboring businesses.

2

No fountain drinks are available at the restaurant.

3

The food portions are generous and prices are affordable.

03
Da Local Boy Cafe image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small, colorful space with Hawaiian decor and a friendly vibe welcomes guests. Barbecue shines with tender kalbi and flavorful sauces, including sweet chili vinegar. Soft Hawaiian tunes add to the relaxed atmosphere where regulars enjoy authentic island dishes.

Barbecue features tender meat with a great charred taste and flavorful sauces. Options include kalbi, Huli-Huli chicken, pork belly, and Filipino chicken skewers, often served with sweet chili vinegar for dipping.

People are saying

"The Hawaiian food here is amazing and authentic."

"This local spot's Huli Huli chicken is tender and flavorful."

"The barbecue here is perfectly marinated and grilled."

Good to know

1

The Spam Musubi costs only $3.

2

Expect limited menu items on certain days; check for specials.

3

The portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

04
Chicago Galbi House image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Korean barbecue shines with authentic quality and smokeless grills for a clean experience. Bright lighting and spaced-out tables create a cozy, quiet vibe. Service is attentive and swift, making dining smooth and enjoyable.

Authentic Korean BBQ here matches the quality found in Seoul or Busan. Service is attentive and swift, enhancing the experience beyond typical Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"The kalbi here is so tender and flavorful."

"I thought the Korean barbecue here was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for smaller orders.

05
Dukes Blues n BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Train caboose setting creates a cozy atmosphere with blues music adding a unique vibe. Outdoor picnic tables offer a casual space filled with the smell of smoking barbecue. Authentic southern-style ribs and brisket are tender and rich with friendly service.

Authentic southern-style barbecue shines with brisket and ribs smoked to perfection, tender and rich in smoke flavor. The setting in a timeless traincar adds a warm, cozy vibe while the friendly service complements the relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the smoked flavor."

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is smoked to perfection."

"I thought the barbecue here was the best I had in Illinois."

Good to know

1

Duke's caters events and offers a variety of BBQ options.

2

The Blues fest occurs every summer, featuring live music and food.

3

Dukes Blues n BBQ is typically only open on weekends.

06
Puff Shack BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Bright, airy space with handwritten menus offers a laid-back vibe and Southern charm. Super tender brisket and fall off the bone baby backs deliver authentic BBQ flavors. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating creates a genuine barbecue experience.

Super tender brisket and fall off the bone baby backs stand out here. The menu includes unique specials and tasty, authentic sides that capture real BBQ flavors.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender, juicy, and the best I've had outside Texas."

"The smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese here is amazing."

"I found the Banana Pudding here to be great."

Good to know

1

Smoked jumbo chicken wings are $1 each on Wednesdays.

2

A slab of smoked ribs, cole slaw, and one side is available on Sundays.

3

Rib tip specials are offered on select days.

07
101 BBQ image 1
Restaurant

Texas-style barbecue fills the air with smoky flavor and hearty portions. Pulled pork and brisket stand out for their rich taste without sauce. Family-run vibe and friendly service make it welcoming, while sides like fresh mac n cheese add comfort to the meal.

Texas-style barbecue shines with lots of smoke and flavor. Pulled pork and brisket offer delicious smoke flavor even without sauce, and sides like beans, elote, and mac n cheese taste freshly made.

People are saying

"The brisket here is tender, juicy, and has great flavor."

"The ribs here are juicy and peel right off the bone."

"The brisket here is tender with a perfect bark."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure your preferred menu items are available.

2

Pre-ordering online is advised to avoid missing out on popular dishes.

3

Expect large portion sizes, perfect for sharing or a hearty meal.

08
Mr kimchi Korean AYCE BBQ Algonquin image 1
Korean barbecue restaurant

Enjoy all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue with meats grilled right at your table. Large tables and a calm, inviting atmosphere make it perfect for groups. Unique touches like a ramen bar and a birthday wheel add fun to casual dining.

All-you-can-eat Korean barbecue features varied meats grilled at the table. Service is attentive and the atmosphere supports a casual dining experience.

People are saying

"I thought the food was amazing and delicious."

"The service at this BBQ spot was super attentive and friendly."

"The servers here are amazing and super attentive at this Korean BBQ."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with fresh, flavorful meat and attentive service.

2

They celebrate birthdays with a fun song and a prize wheel for the birthday person.

3

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours on weekends.

09
Waukegan CM chicken Bobadod image 1

Vibrant atmosphere pulses with K-pop music and comfy bean bag seating. Hot BBQ wings and K BBQ ribeye skillet deliver bold, spicy flavors. Mini grocery store offers unique Korean snacks, adding to the lively, playful vibe with a free Pac-Man arcade game.

Hot BBQ wings stand out with bold flavors. The K BBQ ribeye skillet and spicy BBQ chicken rice bowl offer well-cooked, flavorful options with a mix of heat and sweetness.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, hot, and tasty."

"I really loved their mango lemonade; it was phenomenal."

"The spicy Barbecue chicken bowl is delicious and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

There was plenty of free parking available.

2

There was no wait when I visited.

3

The restaurant offers good Korean food, snacks, and bubble tea.

10
Mr. Kimchi ALL YOU CAN EAT Korean BBQ image 1

Enjoy all you can eat Korean BBQ with smokeless grills in private booths. Warm, inviting space blends modern and traditional decor with K-pop music for an authentic vibe. Friendly service makes cooking your own food fun and intimate.

All you can eat Korean BBQ offers a wide variety of meats grilled right at the table. Friendly service complements the consistently great food, making it a favorite spot for Korean BBQ lovers.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The BBQ service was so fast and attentive."

"The Barbecue service was so fast and attentive."

Good to know

1

Lunch special offers 30% off from 12-3pm.

2

All-you-can-eat lunch is available from 11am to 2pm for $19.99.

3

The restaurant hosts birthday celebrations for large groups.

11
Fahem wa Lahem Food Truck فحم ولحم image 1

Food truck serves fresh grilled meat with generous portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere is cute and professional, perfect for barbecue lovers. Mashawi-style barbecue offers juicy, tender meat paired with flavorful sides like hummus and rice.

Barbecue here is fresh and authentic with a focus on mashawi style. The flavors stand out as delicious and well-crafted.

People are saying

"The food here is juicy, fresh, and incredibly delicious."

"I thought the combination platter was the best tasting Mediterranean food."

"The barbecue here is so juicy and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The food truck offers generous portions at affordable prices.

2

Expect to find a variety of delicious barbecue options.

3

Reservations are not required, but expect a line during peak hours.

12
Dave's Holy Smokes BBQ image 1

Smoky air and bold smoked flavors create a lively vibe perfect for events. Carving stations add an interactive touch to celebrations like weddings and birthdays. Guests enjoy tender brisket and homemade sides, making it a top choice for fantastic BBQ.

Fantastic BBQ caters events like birthdays and weddings, making celebrations memorable. The flavor and quality stand out as some of the best barbecue available in the area.

People are saying

"The BBQ here is amazing, especially the brisket."

"The pulled pork with mac-n-cheese was fantastic."

"I found the barbecue here to be amazing and delicious."

Good to know

1

Dave's Holy Smokes BBQ caters events of all sizes, from small gatherings to large parties.

2

The catering experience is praised for its smooth communication and execution.

3

Feedback from events indicates that the food is consistently rated as 'amazing'.

13
Charleys Cheesesteaks and Wings image 1

Sandwich shop serves bold BBQ flavors with crispy boneless wings and strong Bourbon BBQ taste. Family-friendly spot features two large TVs and a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Popular menu items include wings and cheesesteaks for a relaxed lunch break.

Bold BBQ flavors stand out with saucy boneless chicken wings that have a crispy inside. The Bourbon BBQ and Teriyaki wings offer a strong taste, and the 6-piece BBQ Bourbon wings come highly recommended.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"I'd come back just for the amazing lemonade."

"The boneless chicken wings in barbecue flavor were saucy and crispy."

Good to know

1

Wings are priced at 70 cents each on Mondays and Tuesdays, available in bone-in or bone-out options.

2

Expect quick delivery of orders during peak hours.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

14
Wing Snob image 1
Chicken wings restaurant

Enjoy smoky barbecue wings with bold sauces like Honey BBQ and mango habanero in a clean, comfy space. Vegetarian options like cauliflower wings and simple sides like cornbread make it welcoming for all. The vibe stays lively yet chill, perfect for casual dining.

Wings come with a rich smoky barbecue taste and sauces like Honey BBQ that balance sweetness and smokiness perfectly. Options like mango habanero and lemon pepper dry rub add a delicious kick to the chicken and wings.

People are saying

"The loaded fries here are a must-try for comfort food lovers."

"The BBQ wings are saucy, flavorful, and perfectly tender."

"The Barbecue wings are saucy, smoky, and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Wing Snob offers large wings and drums, not skimpy or small portions.

2

The pricing is fair for the quality and portion sizes.

3

Parking can be difficult during peak hours.

15
MR. KIMCHI KOREAN BBQ RANDHURST image 1

Large space with interactive grilling creates a lively vibe. Enjoy all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with authentic flavors. Private booths and a soju bar add comfort and variety to the experience.

Offers all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ with consistently great meals. Known for being a go-to spot for authentic Korean barbecue experiences.

People are saying

"The food here is great and really tasty."

"The Korean fried chicken here is flavorful and well-prepared."

"The Korean barbecue here has lots of flavorful meat varieties and sides."

Good to know

1

You can only order three plates at a time, and they must be different types of meat.

2

An 18% service charge is automatically added for tables of two.

3

Rice is free during lunch but costs an extra $3 per bowl at dinner.

16
Legends Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small, clean spot serves thin crust pizza and has a full stocked bar with standout Bloody Marys. Wings and BBQ Beef sandwich shine with homemade BBQ sauce that’s rich and not too sweet. Family-friendly vibe with holiday decor and gaming machines keeps it lively and cozy.

Homemade BBQ sauce stands out with its depth of flavor and lack of sweetness. Wings and BBQ Beef sandwich come with very good sauce that complements the dishes well.

People are saying

"I felt like family here, especially with Michelle's homemade pizzas."

"The thin crust pizza here is served with such friendly, welcoming staff."

"The Barbecue here feels like family, thanks to the friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended for busy weekend nights.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The restaurant offers a special breakfast pizza on the first Sunday of every month.

17
KBBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Tables with built-in grills and excellent ventilation create a fresh, interactive Korean barbecue experience. Cozy, lively atmosphere with K-pop music and a family-oriented vibe makes dining warm and fun. Attentive service helps newcomers enjoy delicious, affordable dishes.

Korean barbecue here offers delicious, reasonably priced dishes with excellent ventilation at the grill that keeps the air fresh. Service is attentive, making it approachable even for those new to Korean BBQ.

People are saying

"This Korean food is my absolute favorite place for this cuisine."

"This is the best Korean BBQ I've ever had."

"This Korean Barbecue is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Expect higher prices for premium quality meats at this KBBQ.

2

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

18
Gangnam Korean BBQ image 1
Korean restaurant

Korean BBQ spot shines with interactive table grilling and premium meats like Wagyu. Neon-lit decor and K-pop tunes create a vibrant atmosphere. Halal options and fresh sides make it welcoming and flavorful for all.

Offers an authentic Korean BBQ experience with premium meats and perfectly seasoned marinades. Fresh sides complement the high-quality barbecue flavors.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the LA galbi, is delicious."

"The Korean BBQ staff here really helps you navigate the menu."

"The staff here really helps you with the Barbecue."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak hours, no reservations needed.

2

Prices for meals range from $20 to $40 per person.

3

Halal meat options are available for those who require them.

19
Meetch's Wings & Things image 1

Bright, clean space offers family-friendly arcade and outdoor seating. Pork Belly with Korean BBQ sauce shines among large, affordable portions. Football on TV adds to the lively, casual vibe.

Pork Belly with Korean BBQ sauce stands out with a perfect rating. The smash burger and bbq & garlic parm boneless wings also feature alongside fries and a hot dog.

People are saying

"I found the smash burger perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection."

"The onion rings here are thin and crispy."

"You'll definitely enjoy the pork belly bites from this Barbecue."

Good to know

1

The food is cooked to order, so expect a moderate wait for your meal.

2

You can mix flavors on small orders, like a 6-piece wing.

3

They don't use peanut oil, making it safe for those with allergies.

20
Smoke Daddy Inc image 1
Grill store

Pellet grills offer precise temperature control and durable stainless steel racks for lasting use. Fast, reliable delivery supports quick setup. Exceptional customer service feels like calling a BBQ buddy, while the Pellet Pro ensures consistent smoking results every time.

Exceptional customer service feels like calling a BBQ buddy for help. The Pellet Pro delivers consistent results, making it a solid choice for smoking and BBQ needs.

People are saying

"I finally achieved heavy smoke flavor in my sausages at 165 degrees."

"Their BBQ customer service is like calling your buddy for help."

"Their Barbecue customer service is kind, courteous, and helpful."

Good to know

1

Delivery from Smoke Daddy is fast, even for international orders.

2

The parts from Smoke Daddy are of higher quality than competitors.

3

The temperature stability of the Pellet Pro 2300 allows for precise smoking.

21
JD's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Simple, spacious barbecue spot with a warm atmosphere and smoky rib tips that shine. Lounge area with TVs and a bar suits gatherings well. Friendly staff and homemade sauce make wings and chicken stand out.

Smokiness and seasoning stand out in the BBQ Rib Tips and chicken. Homemade barbecue sauce adds a rich flavor. Wings come home fried and taste great. Service is consistently good.

People are saying

"These ribs just fall right off the bone."

"These chicken wings are fried perfectly and always fresh."

"The turkey tips here are tender, juicy, and perfectly smoky."

Good to know

1

The takeout service has little to no wait, making it convenient.

2

Order in advance to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

JD's BBQ is open late night on Friday and Saturday for late diners.

22
Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar image 1

Barbecue shines with incredible BBQ flavors and top quality. Outdoor patio offers live music and picnic-style seating for a relaxed vibe. Evenings buzz with lively energy and social gatherings.

Amazing barbecue stands out with incredible BBQ flavors and consistently excellent quality. Outdoor seating adds a great atmosphere to the experience.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing barbecue; it was tender and full of flavor."

"I loved sitting outside on the patio."

"I thought the jalapeño poppers were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every Thursday at Matt's Barbecue and Bourbon Bar.

2

Open mic night on Thursdays features local talent and is very popular.

3

The beef dino rib is only available on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

23
Jin Soo Korean bbq / 진수 코리안 바베큐/나일스 한식당/고기 전문점 image 1

Spacious interior with modern Korean style offers a calm, family-friendly vibe. Quality meat with great marbling shines in an authentic Korean BBQ setting. Efficient vent system keeps air fresh, supporting easy conversation and a clean atmosphere.

Quality meat with great marbling and freshness stands out here. The spot offers an authentic Korean BBQ experience with elegant ambiance and solid side dishes.

People are saying

"The Barbecue servers were extremely kind and helpful."

"I had some of the best Korean BBQ I've ever experienced here."

"The seafood Pajeon was crispy but fell apart easily."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The restaurant charges $50 per person for the dining experience.

3

Takeout is not available for lunch specials; dine-in only.

24
Chibogan Filipino Cuisine image 1
Filipino restaurant

Small family-run spot serves Cebu pork lechon and savory BBQ sticks with pinakurat vinegar. Offers authentic Filipino dishes like pancit in generous portions. Atmosphere feels like a barrio fiesta with friendly vibes and occasional singing.

Cebu pork lechon stands out with its roasted flavor, paired well with pinakurat vinegar sauce. Both pork and chicken BBQ sticks offer a delicious, savory taste.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here tastes like home."

"I tried the ube flan and was amazed by it."

"The barbecue here is delicious and the meat is tender."

Good to know

1

Combo meals cost between $12.50 and $14 and include a large amount of food and a drink.

2

Tip: Make sure to call in your orders in advance as there isn't a dining area.

3

The portions are generous and suitable for a family of four.

25
Spoko image 1
Polish restaurant

Polish restaurant offers an intimate vibe with a glass garage door opening to a large beer garden. Menu blends authentic Polish dishes like pierogi with BBQ Maczanka sandwiches and Polish sausage. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed to lively when busy.

Food blends Polish and BBQ flavors with dishes like original and BBQ Maczanka sandwiches and Polish sausage. The menu offers a variety of options that highlight this unique mix.

People are saying

"The Outdoor Seating here is amazing, especially the Polish staples."

"The brunch here is so good, especially the pierogi Benedict."

"The barbecue and Polish sausage here were spot on."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available with decent prices for drinks and small bites.

2

The portion sizes are large for the prices, offering good value.

3

Spoko is vegetarian and pescetarian friendly, with various menu options.

26
Bold Mongol Mongolian Grill image 1

Spacious seating and a glass-ceiling create a bright, relaxed space perfect for dates or meetings. Make-your-own bowl offers fresh, flavorful barbecue with great value. Outdoor seating and a connected boba shop add to the welcoming vibe.

Make-your-own bowl Mongolian BBQ offers a hands-on dining experience with fresh ingredients. The barbecue is flavorful and provides good value for the price.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious with amazing flavor."

"The soup here is top-tier, just like the service."

"The Mongolian Barbecue here did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers build-your-own bowls for $13.99 with unlimited toppings.

2

Parking is free in a small lot next to the restaurant.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; you can stack your bowl high for one price.

27
Heffer BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue shines with Texas-style smoked meats that are top-tier and flavorful. Craft beers from the brewery pair perfectly in the open beer garden. Music sets a fun, lowkey vibe that keeps the atmosphere welcoming and relaxed.

Traditional southern style smoked barbecue stands out with high-quality, top-tier flavors. The BBQ closely resembles Texas style and consistently delivers excellent smoked meats.

People are saying

"I found the BBQ here to be amazing and top-tier."

"I considered their burger one of the best in the city."

"This barbecue is amazing, easily some of the best in town."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available during select hours.

2

Heffer BBQ is a pop-up and not a permanent restaurant.

3

You order at the kiosk and find a seat or get a pager for your food.

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