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Ribs and chocolate

A heavy serving of ribs followed by a rich piece of chocolate is the indulgence required today.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Fratellos 2 image 1
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Hot dog restaurant

Small, newly renovated hot dog restaurant offers a clean, modern atmosphere with a friendly, warm vibe. The space includes a beautiful outdoor seating area and serves Chicago-style specialties like Italian beef and gyros. It feels like a family-run local gem with standout fast food options.

Baby back ribs have a perfect pull and pack a lot of flavor. They often fall off the bone and come highly recommended alongside combos.

Chocolate shakes stand out as excellent and marvelous options. Chocolate chip cookies also offer a yummy treat.

People are saying

"I loved the gyro meat; it was so soft and delicious."

"I thought the American food, especially the hot dogs, was great."

"You have to try the chocolate shake; it's marvelous."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-30 minute wait during peak lunch hours.

2

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments.

3

Prices are on the higher side, with most items over $15.

02
Nu Way Grill image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a homely atmosphere with friendly energy and a clean environment. Regulars enjoy unique dishes like turkey tenders and pita-style burgers, alongside standout wings and rib tips. The vibe feels warm and inviting, making it a favored spot for comfort food.

Rib tips come out tender, meaty, and well seasoned with a sauce that complements them well. Short ribs are hardwood smoked and juicy, showing clear signs of slow smoking and freshness.

Chocolate chip cookies come fresh out of the oven with a rich chocolate flavor. Warming them up enhances their decadent taste and they are made from scratch, not pre-made dough.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, hot, and fresh."

"The rib tips were so meaty, tender, and flavorful."

"These chocolate chip cookies are warm, soft, and scrumptious."

Good to know

1

The meal costs about $12 for a large portion.

2

Nu Way Grill is Black owned and operated.

3

They give large portions, which is uncommon at most restaurants.

03
Portillo's & Barnelli's Niles image 1
Fast food restaurant

Spacious fast food restaurant with retro 1920s decor and automotive-themed displays creates a lively, old-style diner atmosphere. Noise level is high with loud conversations and staff calls, making it difficult to hold quiet talks. Multiple self-order kiosks support a quick, efficient service flow.

BBQ ribs come out solid and consistently good. They earn strong recommendations for their flavor and quality.

Milkshakes use an entire slice of chocolate cake for a rich, creamy texture. The chocolate cake shake stands out as a sweet treat that satisfies cravings with its intense flavor.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the hot dogs and beef sandwiches, is really good."

"I loved the vodka pasta with chicken; it had so much flavor."

"I thought the ribs here were good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant accepts only card payments and does not accept cash.

2

Portillo's & Barnelli's stays open until 11:00 pm for late-night cravings.

3

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

04
Ema image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers warm, modern interior with two bar areas and outdoor seating including a patio and rooftop. Atmosphere stays lively but not noisy, creating an inviting and relaxed vibe. Extensive gluten-free menu and accommodating options stand out for dietary needs.

Short ribs come out incredibly moist and tender. They stand out as a main dish alongside other favorites like lamb stew and hummus.

Rich and decadent chocolate desserts like the Chocolate Hazelnut Tart and chocolate torte close the meal. The double chocolate crisp cake offers a sweet, crisp texture alongside other unique options.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The chocolate torte is a decadent, generous portion."

"The short ribs were incredibly moist and tender."

Good to know

1

Ema offers an extensive gluten-free menu with many options.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly.

3

Happy hour features generous portions but a limited list of spreads.

05
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers beautiful outdoor patio with waterfall and live piano music in the bar area. Atmosphere ranges from lively floor shows with wealthy older adults to quiet private dining rooms suitable for large groups. Tables inside are often crowded and close together, which can feel uncomfortable.

Half rack of ribs comes tasty and satisfying. Prime rib stands out with medium cooking, sometimes served in the wrong size but generally excellent.

Chocolate desserts include a rich mousse cake and cookies with ice cream. Both offer a creamy, indulgent finish to a meal.

People are saying

"The steaks here are phenomenal, perfectly aged and expertly cooked."

"The steaks here are phenomenal, seasoned to perfection."

"The prime rib here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for downtown locations due to high demand.

2

Valet parking is available, but onsite parking can be inconvenient.

3

The restaurant hosts large events like wedding receptions and private parties.

06
Sophia Steak Chicago image 1

Upscale steakhouse offers intimate indoor seating and a welcoming outdoor patio with plants and shade. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting with stylish decor including Deco lamps and a flowered canopy. Cocktails and wine pairings complement perfectly cooked steaks in a comfortable setting.

Ribs vary here, with some being fall-off-the-bone juicy and flavorful, while others like the short rib can be overcooked and dry. The roasted chicken and short rib stand out among the meat options.

Signature 13-layer chocolate cake features hazelnut layers that add crunch and a flavor like Ferrero Rocher. Peanut butter pie combines chocolate and peanut butter for a rich dessert option.

People are saying

"The steak here is melt-in-your-mouth tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The 13-layer Chocolate Cake was luxurious and reminiscent of Ferrero Rocher."

"The ribs were fall-off-the-bone amazing and juicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM, including weekends.

2

Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.

3

Half off bottles of wine are available on Monday nights.

07
The Walnut Room image 1
American restaurant

Dining room showcases historic decor and a stunning Christmas tree that creates a magical atmosphere. Fairy princesses visit tables, adding a whimsical touch to the experience. Space feels spacious and elegant with white tablecloths and a sense of Chicago history.

Short ribs come tender with great flavor. Several people find them delicious and highly enjoyable.

Chocolate offerings include a historic chocolate cake linked to Marshall Fields and a Frango Mint Chocolate Ice Cream Pie that stays tasty even when frozen. Hot cocoa and chocolate cake serve as decadent treats alongside the mint chocolate ice cream pie.

People are saying

"The holiday atmosphere and the Great Tree are just stunningly gorgeous."

"The short ribs here are so tender and have great flavor."

"You have to try the chocolate cake; it's decadent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for holiday dining at least two months in advance.

2

The Walnut Room hosts a popular drag brunch every Sunday at 11 AM.

3

Parking costs $28 for three hours, so plan accordingly.

08
Carmine's Italian Restaurant Rosemont image 1

Italian restaurant offers open dining room with low lighting creating a comfortable, romantic atmosphere despite being noisy and crowded. Outdoor patio features fireplace and heaters but can be affected by cold or aircraft noise. Food includes homemade pasta and standout dishes like calamari and sea bass.

Short ribs come out incredibly tender and savory, often paired with creamy polenta. This dish stands out for its rich flavor and soft texture.

Mile-high chocolate cake stands out with its light texture and balanced richness. Chocolate martinis complement the desserts with their excellent flavor.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes here are delicious and melt-in-your-mouth."

"The short ribs were so tender and savory."

"The mile-high chocolate cake is delicious and set a high standard."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $7 and is cash only with valet service.

2

Reservations are not required and seating is often immediate.

3

The restaurant is open until 11 PM on weekdays.

09
Portillo's & Barnelli's Glendale Heights image 1

Fast food restaurant with a retro bar design and walls filled with historical Italian-American decor. Atmosphere is fun and casual but can be noisy and lively during busy times. The space feels cozy and visually interesting, inviting exploration especially upstairs.

Ribs come tender and fall off the bones with a meaty texture. Pickup requires ordering at a specific line, and wait times can be long without number calls.

Chocolate shines in the chocolate cake shake, known for its extra chocolaty and one of a kind flavor. This shake stands out as a delicious and memorable treat.

People are saying

"You have to try the Chicago hot dogs; they have a great snap."

"I thought the flame-broiled burgers here were the best I've ever eaten."

"These ribs are so tender, they just fall off the bone."

Good to know

1

The drive-thru does not accept cash payments; card payments only.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait at the drive-thru during peak hours.

3

Self-service drink refills are available at the fountain.

10
Portillo's Oswego image 1
Fast food restaurant

Restaurant features retro interior with unique antiques and period music, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Space is open and busy, often noisy and crowded. Self-service beverage area adds a modern touch to the classic vibe.

Ribs come in full slab dinners with a well done option, though sometimes the cooking may not match the request. They stand out as delicious and fantastic among other menu choices.

Chocolate cake stands out for being moist and chocolatey with a rich flavor. Thick, creamy chocolate milkshakes and chocolate cake shakes add to the chocolate offerings.

People are saying

"I thought their burgers were fantastic for the price."

"The chocolate cake is moist and chocolatey, truly the best ever."

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

Good to know

1

The drive-thru is now cashless, so bring a card for payment.

2

Expect long wait times between 1pm and 4pm; plan your visit accordingly.

3

The drive-thru is efficient, even during busy periods.

11
Portillo's Cicero image 1
Fast food restaurant

Large, modern fast food restaurant with airy, roomy seating and chic Americana decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. The kitchen is visible, showing fast-paced food preparation that adds energy to the space. It attracts people looking for classic Chicago-style hot dogs and beef sandwiches in a clean, contemporary setting.

Ribs come out hot and the service is super fast even for a full slab. The rib dinner pairs with other items like Polish sausage and chicken sandwich.

Rich, moist chocolate cake stands out as a highlight. Chocolate cake shakes blend ground-up cake for a creamy, indulgent treat.

People are saying

"The drive-thru food here is delicious, especially the burgers."

"The chocolate cake shake is rich, creamy, and totally addictive."

"These ribs were hot."

Good to know

1

After 11pm, some items like the Fish Sandwich and Chopped Chicken salad are not served.

2

The restaurant is open late in an area with few late-night options.

3

There is plenty of parking available at this location.

12
Portillo's Shorewood image 1
Fast food restaurant

Bright neons and 1930s car culture decals create a retro Chicagoland vibe with a large open space. Jazz music plays softly, adding to the fun, nostalgic atmosphere. Kiosks replace booths, and a near life-size diorama of Chicago's organized crime history stands above the entrance.

Ribs come with a wait time but are generally good. Some find the quality varies, with ratings from solid to poor.

Moist and delicious chocolate cake stands out as a key dessert here. It pairs well with other items like ribs and hamburgers, and even features in collaborations like the Stan donuts.

People are saying

"I loved the combo beef sandwich with peppers wet and cheese."

"I thought the chocolate cake was moist and delicious."

"I thought the ribs here were good."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak lunch hours, especially on weekends.

2

Breakfast is now offered, providing a unique fast food option.

3

Prices are generally higher than typical fast food, with meals averaging $16.

13
Portillo's & Barnelli's Crystal Lake image 1

1930s Prohibition-era decor with speak-easy themes and mobster imagery creates a unique setting. Busy, semi-loud atmosphere fills the spacious dining areas, with a quieter room available for groups. The vibe blends cozy charm with lively energy, making it distinct among fast food spots.

Barbecue ribs come with a charred crust and taste cooked, not just heated. Quality varies, with some orders arriving burnt while others are excellent.

Chocolate cake stays consistent and stands out as a signature dessert here. The cake is often described as excellent and delicious, with options like a heart-shaped version and a chocolate cake shake.

People are saying

"I thought the American food, especially the beef sandwiches and hot dogs, was great."

"I thought the chocolate cake was excellent and really good."

"I thought the barbecue ribs were cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially at the drive-thru.

2

The drive-thru is often faster than dining in, especially during busy times.

3

This location does not accept cash at the drive-thru; card payments only.

14
Portillo's Arlington Heights image 1
Fast food restaurant

Restaurant features 1930s gangster theme with retro, nostalgic charm and lively atmosphere. Interior design includes unique lighting and special details that create a fun, engaging space. Setup offers both self-order kiosks and register options with a narrow, single-lane drive-thru.

Ribs come as part of a dinner without the salad. The menu includes beef, chicken, and ribs that pair well with beer. Ribs stand alongside other hearty options like Italian beef and cheese fries.

Dense chocolate cake with fudge frosting stands out here. The chocolate cake shake is legendary and pairs well with the chocolate eclair cake that many find addicting.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the hot dogs and Italian beef, is a Chicago staple."

"This Italian beef sandwich is tender, juicy, and loaded with flavor."

"I thought Portillo's offered the best ribs."

Good to know

1

Cash is not accepted; only credit or debit cards are accepted in the drive-thru.

2

The cheese fries are not vegetarian due to the frying method used.

3

Portillo's Arlington Heights is now only a drive-through location.

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