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Barbecue and vegetarian options in Illinois

Made for those who want to enjoy a barbecue outing without forcing their vegetarian companions to skip the meal.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Banh Mi City image 1
Banh Mi City image 2
Banh Mi City image 3
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Vietnamese restaurant

Small, casual Vietnamese spot with a cozy interior and rock music playing softly. Atmosphere feels simplistic and chill, with limited seating and a quiet vibe. Known for generous banh mi sandwiches and excellent pho, making it a solid choice for takeout or a relaxed meal.

BBQ pork comes in small chips of meat and works well in the banh mi and fresh rolls. Lemongrass chicken also pairs with the BBQ pork in sandwiches served alongside pho.

Vegetarian options include a variety of proteins like seitan and tofu. The menu features vegetarian banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls with avocado, along with vegan pho.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, has a really good broth."

"The vegetarian banh mi and spring rolls are delicious and fresh."

"The BBQ pork banh mi here is pretty good."

Good to know

1

Banh Mi City offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Prices for banh mi start at $10, which is reasonable for the portion size.

3

Takeout is available, making it a good option for a quick meal.

02
Glo Jean's Kitchen image 1

Small, clean space with artistic decor and limited seating creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere stays calm and chilled with good music adding to the peaceful vibe. Separate grills for vegan and meat dishes highlight a focus on diverse, quality food options.

Vegan BBQ tips stand out as a highlight, impressing even picky eaters. Dishes like the BBQ pulled jackfruit and BBQ eggplant sandwich offer flavorful, satisfying options beyond traditional meats.

Vegan options include tacos, gyro, and BBQ tips that deliver strong flavor and texture without compromise.

People are saying

"I was pleasantly surprised by how good the vegetarian options were."

"You have to try the vegan gyro; it's amazing!"

"The Barbecue pulled jackfruit sliders were so tasty and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Glo Jean's Kitchen offers a diverse menu with vegan and traditional options.

2

Pricing is reasonable compared to typical fast food options.

3

The restaurant has measures to prevent cross-contamination for vegan dishes.

03
Nhu Lan Bakery & Sandwiches image 1

Vietnamese deli and market with takeout-only service and no seating, decorated in bright reds and yellows with hanging plants. Atmosphere feels intimate and no-frills, attracting a steady flow of customers who often eat in their cars. Known for fresh, high-quality bánh mì sandwiches with well-drained pickled vegetables that avoid sogginess.

BBQ pork and sandwiches come fresh and flavorful. Vegan BBQ stands out as a divine option alongside barbecue duck and pork dishes.

Vegan options include lemongrass tofu and BBQ sandwiches that are fresh and flavorful. The menu offers a good variety of vegan bánh mì and Vietnamese desserts like chè.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the banh mi, is so fresh and delicious."

"The vegan BBQ sandwich here is divine and has a great texture."

"The barbecue sandwiches here are delicious and generously filled."

Good to know

1

Nhu Lan Bakery & Sandwiches is a takeout-only establishment with no indoor seating.

2

All sandwiches are priced under $9, offering good value for quality.

3

There is a free parking lot available in front of the bakery.

04
Daisy's Catering Cafe image 1
Vegan restaurant

Buffet-style vegan restaurant offers a clean, relaxing atmosphere with earthy vibes and plants enhancing the space. The environment feels family friendly and welcoming, with a kids zone for play. Menu features homemade dishes free of processed substitutes, creating a natural and refreshing dining experience.

BBQ tips come with a fresh avocado protein wrap or paired with lentil soup and veggie stir fry. The menu also features BBQ tofu alongside classic sides like mac n cheese and peach cobbler.

Entire menu stays entirely vegan with a strong focus on soul food classics. Options include sandwiches, salads, wraps, smoothies, and desserts like peach cobbler.

People are saying

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

"I loved the flavorful vegetarian food here."

"The Barbecue tips were BOMB and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafe is open from 11:30am to 8pm, Sunday through Saturday.

2

Cardless payment options are available for those who forget their wallets.

3

There may be a wait at Daisy's Catering Cafe during busy hours.

05
SGD Dubu So Gong Dong Korean Bento & BBQ image 1

Korean restaurant with clean, modern decor and K-pop music sets a pleasant atmosphere. It draws a crowd by dinner time, offering authentic, flavorful dishes like bulgogi and sundubu with reasonable prices and good value portions.

Suburban Korean BBQ offers a solid choice for meat lovers with very good Korean barbecue options. The menu includes dishes like So Gong Dong tofu alongside the BBQ.

Multiple vegetarian options exist, making it easy to find something satisfying. Staff provide helpful guidance to choose dishes, enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The Korean food here, especially the bulgogi and sundubu, is the best I've ever eaten."

"I thought the Korean barbecue here was very good."

"They helped us choose great vegetarian options and made us feel taken care of."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed daily from 2:45 PM to 4:30 PM.

2

Parking is easy at SGD Dubu So Gong Dong.

3

The restaurant now serves customers at their tables.

06
92 Town Korean BBQ Restaurant | 구이촌, 시카고 맛집, 한식 #1, 고기집 image 1

Korean barbecue restaurant offers tabletop grilling with owners preparing meat in front of diners. Curtains separate tables, creating a private, family-style atmosphere that feels like eating in a home kitchen. The place features traditional drinks like soju and makgeolli served in unique ways, enhancing the authentic experience.

Korean BBQ here stands out for its authentic flavors and welcoming service that guides you through the grilling process. The seafood pancake and BBQ dishes consistently deliver a satisfying experience.

Plenty of fresh vegetarian options fill the menu, including vegan dumplings and Japchae. Chefs customize dishes like scallion pancakes and appetizers to be vegan, with helpful service guiding choices.

People are saying

"I found the Korean food here to be the best in the area."

"The barbecue here is amazing, especially the quality of the meat."

"The vegetarian appetizers were terrific and many options exceeded expectations."

Good to know

1

Portions are large, so come hungry and be prepared to take food home.

2

The restaurant charges for side dishes, which is uncommon.

3

Expect to pay around $140 for two people, including extra charges.

07
China Wok image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern chop-suey style space features fresh flowers at every table and warm lighting with round red lanterns. Atmosphere stays cozy and calm with instrumental music, inviting relaxed dining. Large portions and generous lunch deals attract steady crowds seeking satisfying meals.

Barbecue pork ribs stand out with rich flavor and beat other local spots. Dishes like BBQ pork noodles come in large portions, and the menu balances meats like chicken and pork with vegetables well.

Many vegetarian and vegan options fill the large menu. Dishes include vegetarian dumplings and spicy vegetable rice noodles.

People are saying

"The food here tastes incredibly fresh and delicious."

"I tried their vegetarian options and they were great."

"The barbecue pork ribs here are better than at our usual spots."

Good to know

1

The lunch special is available until 3pm and includes an egg roll and soda.

2

Lunch deals cost around $13, offering great value for the portion size.

3

Expect long wait times for carryout orders, often exceeding the estimated time.

08
Sweet Rice Chicago image 1
Asian restaurant

Casual Thai restaurant with quirky cat robot servers creates a laid-back, street food vibe indoors and outdoors. The atmosphere feels comfortable and chill, blending novelty with authentic touches. Frequented for its fresh, flavorful dishes and relaxed setting.

BBQ chicken features a sauce with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The menu includes vegan BBQ pork noodles with a large portion and plenty of protein, plus spicy chicken BBQ tenders and flavorful BBQ pork buns.

Vegan and vegetarian dishes feature seitan and tofu with good spice and texture. The menu offers large portions like the vegan BBQ pork noodles and includes tasty appetizers with amazing dipping sauces.

People are saying

"The durian sticky rice dessert has a sweet, beautiful texture."

"The BBQ chicken here has a perfect sweet and tangy flavor."

"The vegetarian options here are amazing and plentiful."

Good to know

1

The kitchen closes at 8:45 pm on weekdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

The menu does not clearly indicate allergens, so ask staff if you have dietary restrictions.

3

Sweet Rice allows customers to bring their own alcohol, enhancing the dining experience.

09
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Wings come with BBQ Sauce and Buffalo options that stand out. The menu offers a solid range of appetizers and BBQ meats with clear skill behind the grill.

Vegetarian options include in-house patties for burgers, customizable pasta dishes like Cajun and Fettuccine Alfredo, and a vegetarian pizza called Pat's. The place is known for being very vegetarian friendly.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"I was floored by the vegetarian options they had."

"The Barbecue wings were smoked perfectly and sauced just enough."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

10
Sweet Vegan Bakes | Event Venue image 1

Black brick building houses a visually stunning interior with tasteful decor and a chill atmosphere. The space feels welcoming and comfortable, suited for casual dining or elegant events. The vibe is relaxed, with a focus on plant-based offerings and a clean, attractive setting.

Barbecue bites come as a popular appetizer featuring six barbecue chicken bites for $18. These bbq bites stand out as a highly recommended starter, though the portion size feels limited.

Vegan options include vegan chicken, vegan cheese steak, and a variety of burgers and fries. Sweet Vegan Bakes offers birthday cakes and quick bites with excellent service and a healthy focus.

People are saying

"I never thought dairy-free food could taste so good."

"I never thought vegetarian food could taste so good."

"The Barbecue here is phenomenal, truly delicious food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is 100% plant-based, with no soy or processed ingredients.

2

Reservations are required to dine in, with an annual fee of $175.

3

The prices are high, with dishes averaging around $20 each.

11
Crying Tiger image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an immersive Asian-inspired interior with a beautifully designed layout and a stylish bar area. Music features 90s hip-hop and R&B, creating a fun and cool vibe throughout the space. The atmosphere feels lively and memorable, blending great energy with a gorgeous setting.

Barbecue chicken stands out with a spicy kick and tender texture. The menu also features shaking beef and wagyu beef nam tok, offering rich, savory flavors.

Most dishes can be made vegetarian with tofu substitutions even if not listed. The place is very vegetarian friendly with a variety of tasty options, though the flavors tend to be mild.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding and thoughtfully prepared."

"I'll definitely be a regular for the vegetarian dishes."

"The atmosphere here is beautiful, especially the decor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dinner service, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking costs $20 for 2 hours.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

12
Tokyo at Siam(Dan siam inc.) image 1

Small, cozy space with clean, neat seating and a friendly atmosphere. Offers a mix of authentic Thai and Japanese flavors with dishes like crab rangoons and green curry standing out. The environment feels casual and unassuming, with portions that have become smaller over time.

BBQ here blends Texas-style smoked pork with Asian flavors, especially in the steamed buns that are soft and filled with smoky meat. Dishes like BBQ Korean Beef and BBQ pork with rice show a mix of sweet and savory BBQ styles.

Menu offers a wide variety of dishes with many vegetarian options. Staff is helpful and accommodates vegetarian requests easily.

People are saying

"The Tom Yum soup was a chef's kiss, full of authentic Thai flavor."

"You have to try the BBQ pork with rice; it's delicious."

"They have so many vegetarian options available."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but calling ahead can reduce wait times to 10-15 minutes.

2

Drive-thru service is available for quick pickups.

3

The restaurant shuts down for a late lunch, so check their hours before visiting.

13
Kabab King Grill Naperville fine Dining image 1

Spacious dining area with modern decor and elegant ambiance creates an inviting atmosphere. Lighting keeps the space well visible but lacks distinct cultural cues. The environment stays quiet without music when empty, offering an intimate experience suited for groups rather than solo visits.

Barbecue here features desi style flavors that are well balanced and not too spicy. The BBQ platter offers a flavorful and tasty experience rated around 8 out of 10.

Menu includes vegetarian dishes but they are limited compared to meat options like beef, fish, chicken, and lamb. More vegetarian choices would improve the variety.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be so delicious."

"The BBQ platter here is really good."

"I loved their Paneer Kathi roll; it was out of this world."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 11:30 but starts serving food at 12:30.

2

Kabab King Grill Naperville fine Dining usually closes around 10 pm.

3

Expect a wait time if arriving during peak hours.

14
Pho Lover image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Interior features cherry blossom trees and garden-like decor creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Food and drinks arrive via a cute cat-faced robot, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. Handmade art and cultural elements give the space a personal, aesthetic feel.

Korean BBQ sushi taco stands out as a unique and flavorful option. The BBQ sandwich exists but varies in texture, sometimes coming out tough.

Vegan Pho soup stands out as a key vegetarian option, with some finding it yummy while others note it as bland. Vegetarian pho is available and generally enjoyed.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here, especially the pho, is excellent."

"I found the tea to be strong and full of flavor."

"The barbecue here is great."

Good to know

1

Prices on the menu may differ from the final bill, so check carefully.

2

A tip is automatically added for parties of six or more.

3

The restaurant has a clean environment and well-maintained facilities.

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