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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Ribs and burgers in Chicago

A massive meal of ribs and burgers is the only thing that will quiet this hunger.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Palilgu image 1
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Korean restaurant

Modern Korean restaurant with soft lighting and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Cocktails stand out, featuring drinks like the Garuso Boulevard and Korean tea old fashioned. Seating is plentiful but tables sit close together, and music keeps energy lively without overwhelming conversation.

Short ribs come with a notable amount of fat but remain incredible and flavorful. The LA galbi offers a delicious beef experience that stands out among the rib options.

Very tasty burger stands out with flavors that compare to some of the best in Chicago. The burger offers a rich, satisfying experience.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is fantastic, especially the crispy fried chicken."

"I found the short ribs to be incredible."

"I thought their burgers were the best in Chicago."

Good to know

1

Happy hour lasts until 7 pm, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Portion sizes are small, similar to tapas, so consider ordering multiple dishes.

3

The restaurant accommodates vegetarians with substantial options on the menu.

02
Heffer BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Barbecue restaurant inside a brewery with an open beer garden offers a lowkey vibe and welcoming atmosphere. Music fits the setting well, creating a fun environment without feeling crowded. Regulars enjoy pairing craft beers with standout smoked meats and burgers.

Ribs have a satisfying bite that shows skill and are consistently rated excellent alongside brisket and smoked wings. They stand out as mouthwatering treats that surpass many other barbecue options.

Smoked brisket burgers stand out with rich flavor and a quality rivaling wagyu from Michelin star spots. Burgers come with a smoky, tender profile that pairs well with the brewery's vibe.

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."

"These ribs are better than the rest of the barbecue I found."

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.

03
Mirella’s Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Spacious interior with a sunny back patio and natural light creates an open, inviting setting. Calm, well-lit atmosphere supports a homey vibe with top 100 music and multiple TVs showing sports. The place suits groups and families, offering kid-friendly amenities and a comfortable bar area.

Ribs come fall off the bone delicious and are consistently delicious here. The rack of ribs stands out as a highlight alongside other dishes.

Burgers here have great flavor and stand out as some of the best around. The burger pairs well with sides like sweet potato fries and Crab Mac cheese.

People are saying

"The food here is really, really good and flavorful."

"The outdoor patio is a great sunny and spacious seating area."

"The ribs here are fall off the bone delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour well drinks are $5.

2

The restaurant offers a great restaurant week deal for $45 that includes a steak option.

3

Daily food specials are available during happy hour.

04
Oak and Honey image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a cozy, upscale boho vibe with tasteful decor including a standout zebra print. Space feels deceptively large but tables sit close together, creating a lively, vibrant atmosphere. Bar seating suits solo diners, and a dog-friendly patio adds to the welcoming energy.

Braised short ribs come fork tender and melt off the bone with a standout version served with salsa verde. Plates featuring short ribs pair well with other dishes like squid and carrots for sharing.

Burgers come with bacon onion jam and Brie, creating a unique flavor mix. The house-made rye bread pairs perfectly, and the burger cooks exactly to order.

People are saying

"Our server Sharon was incredible and made our brunch experience better."

"The short ribs were fork tender and melted off the bone."

"The burgers with bacon onion jam and brie are incredible."

Good to know

1

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

2

Wine Wednesday features special deals on select wines.

3

Reservations can be made through Open Table.

05
Wolf & Company image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant combines upscale vibe with neighborhood coziness in a gorgeous space featuring a patio right off a popular trail. It offers creative craft cocktails praised for balance and presentation. The venue includes a market and butcher shop, adding a unique grocery element to the dining experience.

Ribs come with a slightly spicy BBQ sauce that adds a nice kick. The menu offers a variety of options but includes some standout phenomenal ribs alongside other dishes.

Burgers come with bacon and fries, often shared as a triple burger. Cooking is mostly consistent, with about 70% cooked fully. The burger ranks among the best here, served alongside dishes like Chicken Fat mash.

People are saying

"I found the burgers to be incredibly tasty and flavorful."

"The outdoor seating offers gorgeous views of the 606 trail."

"I enjoyed the phenomenal ribs with a slightly spicy BBQ sauce."

Good to know

1

The establishment has had issues with food safety, including unrefrigerated ingredients.

2

Dishes were washed in the hand washing sink, raising health concerns.

3

The bathroom is located far from the patio, which may be inconvenient.

06
S2 Express Grill Downtown image 1

Restaurant combines unique decor with a warm, welcoming vibe and top-tier music including hip-hop, R&B, and afrobeats. Atmosphere feels both like a casual takeout spot and a lively club under the right circumstances. Clean environment supports a positive, chill energy throughout.

Beef ribs stand out here, with options like short ribs and rib tips that deliver strong flavor. Pairings like macaroni and cheese and fries complement the ribs well.

Hearty burgers stand out here, especially the Lamb Burger which offers a unique, flavorful twist. The Ultra burger and a keto burger salad also deliver strong, tasty options.

People are saying

"I experienced unique, great customer service here."

"I found the burgers here to be extremely flavorful."

"I loved the beef ribs here; they did not disappoint."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs until 7pm with affordable drinks for dine-in only.

2

Live DJ performs on Taco Tuesdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Expect a fun vibe on Fridays when the DJ is present.

07
Papa Chris’ Place image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food joint with old school vibes and local sports memorabilia creates a family-friendly atmosphere. Open space offers authentic Chicago-style dishes with generous portions and below-average prices. The environment feels cozy and welcoming, reflecting a working-class Americana style.

Award-winning ribs come fresh and flavorful, served alongside other Greek Chicago style dishes. The ribs hold a strong reputation from years before newer BBQ spots appeared.

Burgers come juicy and messy, echoing classic sloppy styles from Chicago. They offer affordable prices with a whole burger and fries under $7, covering all the classic options like hot dogs and gyros.

People are saying

"I found the Greek food, especially the gyros, to be amazing."

"I found the ribs here were fantastic."

"These burgers are huge and messy, just like I remember."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy, with space for larger vehicles like semi-trailers.

2

Prices are below average, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The menu features a variety of old school Chicago favorites.

08
Ferro's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with a newly remodeled kitchen and a simple dining area featuring a few outdoor patio tables. Atmosphere feels like a clean dive with a Chicago vibe. Known for authentic Italian ice made with real fruit and exceptionally good ribs.

Ribs here stand out for their rib tips that many consider the best around. The menu features large rib tips and hot links, often combined in one container for convenience.

Burgers have a great smoked flavor and come with fries. They are generally good for a quick bite but can be a little dry. BBQ options also stand out alongside the burgers.

People are saying

"The Italian beef sandwich here is especially tasty."

"I thought the American Food brisket and ribs here were dam good."

"I ordered rib tips and hot links."

Good to know

1

Ferro's has a decent parking lot considering it's in Chicago.

2

Ferro's offers seating both indoors and outdoors.

3

Prices are $4.95 for 10oz, $5.95 for 16oz, $7.95 for 32oz, $22 for a half-gallon, and $45 for a gallon.

09
Top Butcher Market image 1
Butcher shop

Market combines butcher shop, dining area, and open kitchen in a comfortable, clean space with homey atmosphere. It offers high-end meats and handcrafted sauces, creating a welcoming environment with occasional noise. Sampling of soups and culinary items happens while waiting.

Smoky and tender ribs come in two full slabs for $30 or a daily special of two slabs for $25. The ribs pair well with fries and stand out for their excellent preparation and great value.

Smash burgers stand out with perfect cooking and seasoned fries on the side. Double Smash Burgers and Italian Beef sandwiches come highly recommended, alongside ribs and smoked brisket.

People are saying

"This place is a hidden gem with phenomenal sandwiches and meats."

"The brisket sandwich here is tender, smoky, and absolutely delicious."

"I enjoyed the ribs; they were bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide selection of high-quality meats and ingredients.

2

Prices increased by 20-30% recently across the board.

3

They make their own ketchup, which is a unique offering.

10
Nick's Drive-In image 1
Gyro restaurant

Old school diner with a retro vibe and nostalgic atmosphere offers a quiet, welcoming space with tight booths and a small TV. The place feels like a time capsule with a fast food-like pace and reasonable prices.

Ribs come out soft and tasty, with rib tips that hold up well even when served early. An indoor smoker handles the cooking, adding a distinct flavor to the meat.

Burgers come fresh right off the grill with exceptional quality and great flavor. They pair well with fries and drinks, making for a solid classic meal.

People are saying

"I thought the gyros here were the best I've ever had."

"It's like stepping into a vintage piece of history where the timeline hasn't changed."

"These ribs are so good, the meat is soft."

Good to know

1

The prices at Nick's Drive-In are reasonable and offer good value.

2

Expect generous portion sizes with every meal ordered.

3

Nick's Drive-In is a family-run establishment with a long history.

11
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.

Smoked ribs come falling off the bone tender with great flavor and generous portions. Served alongside sides like potato salad and sweet potato fries, they stand out as excellent and well-cooked.

Burgers come in good sized portions and include fries, offering decent value. The Patterson pub burger stands out for its freshness and medium cooking, while the Smash Burger is juicy and flavorful, with in-house vegetarian patties also available.

People are saying

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

"The smash burgers are juicy and melty."

"These ribs are so tasty and smoky."

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.

12
Gale Street Inn Chicago image 1

Newly remodeled space combines Great Gatsby decor with a supper club vibe and a small stage for live jazz and ukulele performances. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with ample table spacing for comfortable conversation. Lively evenings feature phenomenal live music that enhances the classic old school Chicago environment.

Ribs here fall off the bone and have no gristle, fat, or small bones. The barbecued ribs come in a half rack option and pair well with crab legs for a spectacular meal.

The wagyu burger stands out with rich flavor and juicy texture. Adding candied bacon boosts the taste. Burgers can be cooked to order, with staff willing to remake if needed.

People are saying

"These ribs are the best in town, truly fall-off-the-bone perfection."

"It's got this awesome old school vibe, like a supper club."

"I really enjoyed the wagyu burger; it tasted so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended because the place fills up quickly.

2

Live jazz music happens on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

3

The free parking is convenient.

13
Paisans Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza restaurant with wrought-iron decor and high ceilings creates a welcoming, vintage vibe. Music plays at a comfortable volume, mixing genres to keep the atmosphere fun and inviting. A country-style bar with sports on big screens adds to the lively, family-friendly energy.

Ribs slide off the bones perfectly and come in a full slab option. They have a seasoned flavor and pair well with fries.

Burgers come with rich flavor and pair well with crispy onion rings. The Americana burger stands out for its taste.

People are saying

"The food here is great and has amazing flavor."

"I enjoyed the delicious burgers here."

"The ribs here slide right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Tuesdays feature $0.99 wings and $5 draft beers during wing night.

2

Expect a 10-minute wait to be seated on busy nights.

3

Parking is limited; street parking is often necessary.

14
14 Parish image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Modern, stylish space with Caribbean bookshelf of bottles and Island vibes sets a lively tone. Music ranges from Afrobeats to House, often loud, creating an energetic atmosphere. Crowds enjoy spacious dining and a mix of casual and romantic moods.

Short ribs come out tender and flavorful. The chef handles special orders like short ribs with cabbage well, keeping the meat very good and juicy.

Mornin’ Burger stands out with a perfect balance of flavors and is often described as elite. The black bean burger is decent, while the French fries come out perfectly cooked alongside other options like catfish.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"I loved the short ribs, they were so tender."

"I found the morning burger to be perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups.

2

Happy hour runs until 6:00 PM, but extensions may not be honored.

3

Trivia night occurs weekly, providing a fun social atmosphere.

15
Signature Steak image 1
Restaurant

Upscale sports bar with modern black-and-white decor and large screen TVs creates a lively, sometimes loud atmosphere. Dim, private lounge offers a contrasting intimate vibe with great music. Signature cocktails and well-crafted drinks stand out amid close seating and energetic crowds.

Beef short ribs come tender and juicy with very little fat. The meat is well-seasoned and pairs well with aioli. Short rib nachos stand out as a unique dish.

Smash burgers stand out with two patties, juicy texture, and crispy edges. The "Signature Move" burger offers a flavorful experience alongside a cocktail.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are thoughtful, indulgent, and expertly executed."

"The burgers here are juicy and hit the spot."

"The beef short ribs were so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

16
S2 Grill - Stony image 1

Upscale restaurant with beautiful decor and fast food feel offers a lively atmosphere with RnB music and a party vibe. Frozen daiquiris come from a signature drink machine with many flavors, complementing dishes like shrimp and grits or lamb chops. The space includes an event area and features a professional photographer.

Short ribs come in a generous supply and are incredibly tender with full flavor. Rib tip dinners and beef short ribs stand out as solid choices.

Burgers come with thick, juicy patties that balance seared and tender textures well. Options include a hearty beef burger, a flavorful lamb burger, and a tasty turkey burger.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"My sister's burger was raw, and they offered to re-cook it."

"The rib tip dinner was great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 4-7 PM with great drink specials.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during peak hours.

3

The restaurant requires payment upfront, including a 15% gratuity.

17
Westso Mexican Steakhouse image 1

Modern steakhouse with sleek black decor and comfortable seating creates a friendly yet elegant atmosphere. The vibe balances casual and sophisticated, welcoming guests in casual clothes. Excellent margaritas and steaks complement the stylish setting.

Burgers here vary a lot. Some are perfectly cooked and highly praised, while others come off as overly salty and less impressive.

People are saying

"I thought the food was delicious and amazing."

"The ribs here are so flavorful, they're the star of the meat."

"I found the burgers here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $10 margaritas and unique appetizers.

2

Tacos are $10 for three during happy hour.

3

Reservations are recommended for the dueling pianos event on weekends.

18
Hiro Bar Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Hip and funky interior with house music and a huge bar sets a lively tone. Atmosphere suits dates and groups seeking vibrant energy, though noise and warmth can be intense. Signature cocktails feature unique presentations, enhancing the overall experience.

Corn ribs stand out with their charred flavor and addictive texture. Short rib dishes vary, with the robata offering a solid option while the noodles score low.

Butter burger stands out with its rich flavor. Other notable options include the shortrib noodles and bao buns.

People are saying

"The food here is tasty with unique, rich flavors."

"The service here is so kind and attentive."

"You have to try the butter burger; it's a special mention."

Good to know

1

Reservations are easy to get on Wednesday nights with plenty of space available.

2

Happy hour food portions are smaller but priced the same as regular menu items.

3

Expect higher prices for small portions, like $17 for two chicken robata skewers.

19
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.

Smash burger comes out perfect with a crisp, juicy bite. The sirloin burger holds consistent quality and rich flavor over time.

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."

"I thought that was the best burger I have ever had."

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.

20
3LP (3 little pigs chi) Bridgeport image 1

Tiny space with bench seats and a handful of tables offers a cozy atmosphere accented by colorful murals. A large patio out back provides casual outdoor seating, often favored by families. The vibe blends simple decor with a fun, lively energy despite occasional smoke from cooking.

Ribs come in both tender and saucy styles and some that are overcooked and dry with little sauce. Char siu pork ribs stand out with a strong flavor, while BBQ ribs pair well with fried rice.

Thick, melt-in-your-mouth beef stands out in the burgers, especially the breakfast and spicy chicken versions. The bun lacks juiciness, which slightly affects the overall burger experience.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is juicy, crispy, and huge."

"The burgers here have excellent flavor and melt in your mouth."

"The fried chicken sandwiches are juicy with a crispy batter."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited, but there is a large patio on Keely Street.

2

Portions are generous and filling, making it a good value.

3

Parking is easier to find than at their previous location.

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