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Guide to Chicago

Ribs and sandwiches

A quick, satisfying meal of ribs and a sandwich is all that is needed.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Oak and Honey image 1
Oak and Honey image 2
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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.

Breakfast sandwiches feature sausage with bold flavor and come with sides like rosemary potatoes. The sandwich stands out as a delicious morning option.

People are saying

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

"The breakfast sandwich with aioli and crispy potatoes is amazing."

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

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.

02
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.

Skirt steak sandwiches stand out with their charbroiled flavor and tender texture. Gyros and chicken sandwiches come fresh and juicy, often served on pita with a Chicago-style twist.

People are saying

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

"I found the gyros sandwich delicious."

"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.

03
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.

Slow-smoked beef brisket sandwiches offer tender, rich smoky flavor after 14 hours of preparation. Pastrami and steak sandwiches stand out with bold, delicious taste that sets a high bar for barbecue sandwiches.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was amazing."

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.

04
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.

BBQ and steak sandwiches stand out with tender meat and a crispy yet fluffy brioche bun. Options include a baby back rib sandwich and a Philly steak sandwich, served with hand cut fries.

People are saying

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

"The steak sandwich was tender with hand-cut fries."

"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.

05
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.

Pulled pork and brisket sandwiches come on nicely cooked buns with packed meat. Other sandwiches include a smoked cheeseburger and a chopped cheese option.

People are saying

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

"The brisket sandwich was packed with delicious brisket."

"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.

06
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.

Italian beef and eggplant parmesan sandwiches stand out with rich flavors and tender meat. Large portions like the 2-pound breaded pork steak sandwich offer hearty meals at reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Italian beef sandwich here is especially tasty."

"I ordered rib tips and hot links."

"I really enjoyed the Italian beef sandwich here."

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.

07
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.

Fried chicken and braised short rib sandwiches stand out with rich, savory flavors. Falafel sandwiches come with flavorful seasoning and a perfect tzatziki addition.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly incredible."

"The falafel sandwich was delicious and flavorful."

"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.

08
Ricobene's image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza restaurant with old Chicago feel and walls adorned with historic photos. Atmosphere is warm and family-like, offering a cozy mom-and-pop shop vibe. Plenty of seating and simple, stylish decor create a welcoming environment.

BBQ ribs stand out with a rich, satisfying flavor that makes them worth the wait. Rib tips come tender and flavorful, often paired with other hearty items like sandwiches and wings for a filling meal.

Breaded steak sandwich stands out as a unique and unmatched offering. Italian sandwiches here rank among the most delicious in the city.

People are saying

"I thought the breaded steak sandwich was the best."

"I found the pizza slices fantastic, especially the breaded steak."

"The ribs were hot, tender, and tangy."

Good to know

1

Handicap parking is available in the lot.

2

Ricobene's does not offer delivery to all nearby locations.

3

Prices for sandwiches are around $17.99, which may vary.

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.

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.

Brisket sandwich stands out with solid flavor and consistent quality. The Crispy Chicken Sandwich offers a crunchy, tender bite with good seasoning, though the aioli is just average.

People are saying

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

"These ribs are so tasty and smoky."

"I highly recommend the brisket sandwich."

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
Soul & Smoke - Avondale at Rockwell on the River image 1

Outdoor patio overlooks river with spacious seating and fire pit creating a relaxing vibe. Music blends 80's to 2000's R&B with live DJ enhancing the atmosphere. The setting combines beautiful views and a lively energy near water and wineries.

Ribs come out super tender and juicy, with rib tips that are meaty and plentiful even in a half order. The ribs pair well with sides like red beans and rice, making for a solid BBQ meal.

Pulled pork and brisket sandwiches stand out with tender meat and perfectly paired coleslaw. The BBQ pork sandwich also offers a solid option with rich flavors.

People are saying

"You have to try the brisket; it's outstanding."

"These rib tips were so tender and juicy, they didn't need sauce."

"I really liked the brisket sandwich."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups, especially on weekends.

2

Expect limited food options late in the day as they may run out.

3

The venue hosts events like bingo and DJ nights on specific days.

11
Leona's Pizzeria - Irving Park image 1

Small, quaint pizzeria with old school Italian style and a modern, sharp interior. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxed with great music enhancing the experience. Spacious layout includes a large bar area offering well-crafted cocktails.

Rib tips come with a BBQ flavor that stands out. They pair well with fries and jumbo buffalo wings for a hearty meal.

Sandwiches come with generous fillings and taste very fresh. Options like the meatball, Buffalo chicken, and chicken parmesan sandwiches stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and just like I remember."

"I found the sandwiches very yummy and fresh."

"I enjoyed the rib tips; they were mouthwatering."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday from 7 to 9 PM.

2

The restaurant has a small on-site parking lot available for guests.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

12
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.

Hot sandwiches like the Diablo and Philadelphia Cheesesteak come baked into house-made bread. Options include a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich, Whitefish sandwich, and deli sandwiches that are great for quick to-go meals.

People are saying

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

"I loved the tremendous flavor of their burgers."

"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.

13
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.

Original style Italian beef sandwiches come with an 80s vibe. Options include a New York cut steak sandwich with raw or grilled onions, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise, plus pepper and egg sandwiches and gyros.

People are saying

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

"I found the sandwich to be awesome and the service top-notch."

"I found the ribs here were fantastic."

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.

14
Great Chicken and Hoagies image 1

Restaurant offers charming atmosphere with a pleasant vibe and clean seating. Food focuses on seasoned fried chicken and hoagie sandwiches, with well-regarded wings and rib tips. Customers often call ahead due to fresh chicken preparation, and family-sized deals are common.

Rib tips come very tender with a nice amount of sauce. They pair well with hoagies and offer a flavorful, saucy bite.

Hoagie sandwiches come with fresh and soft bread and pair well with tender Italian beef. Wings and chicken also complement the sandwich options nicely.

People are saying

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

"The Italian beef sandwich was tender and the bread was soft."

"The rib tips were so tender and had a nice amount of sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as fresh chicken takes about 20 minutes to cook.

2

The menu offers a fantastic selection with affordable prices for everyone.

3

Expect reasonable prices, with most items falling in the medium range.

15
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.

Chicken sandwiches feature crispy, well-seasoned fried chicken and a Cranberry Citrus Chicken Salad option that stands out. The Walnut Room Club Sandwich comes with a thumb's up coleslaw on the side.

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."

"The Walnut Room's sandwich is a gorgeous, elegant place."

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.

16
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.

Salt and pepper chicken sandwich stands out with its large size and strong flavor. Breakfast sandwiches with Spam and BBQ Pork offer a solid choice. The fried chicken sandwich delivers good taste and value.

People are saying

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

"The fried chicken here is so crunchy and flavorful."

"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.

17
Earl's BBQ image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Old-fashioned tin roof shed sets a rustic, small-town vibe with a laid-back, chill atmosphere. Small, cluttered dining area feels authentic and down to earth. Outdoor seating and great music add to the relaxed energy.

Ribs come out tender and juicy, with a strong smoky flavor. Rib tips have good meat and fall off the bone, paired with several sauce options.

Brisket sandwiches stand out with tender, flavorful meat and a perfect BBQ sauce balance. Pulled pork sandwiches come with generous sauce options that add extra taste.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is flavorful and tender."

"The ribs here are smoky and cooked just right."

"The brisket sandwich was tender, juicy, and had great flavor."

Good to know

1

There is no public restroom at this location.

2

Lunch specials are available until 3 pm.

3

This place has a drive-through service.

18
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.

Portions come large for the price. The French dip sandwich melts like butter. Fried chicken sandwich and Gold Coast Club stand out as solid choices.

People are saying

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

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

"The sandwiches here offer the largest portions for their price."

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.

19
Dat Donut image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop features an open area where bakers knead dough, creating a fresh baking vibe. The atmosphere is fun and lively with many people eager for creative donut flavors. It operates as a takeout-only spot with a clean but sparse lobby.

Tender, meaty ribs stand out with a fresher taste in the early evening. Rib tips come with too much sauce and excess bones, making them less enjoyable.

Breakfast sandwiches come on toasted croissants that stay flaky and buttery. They include bacon, egg, and sausage and are made to order with a homemade style.

People are saying

"I found the donuts here to be fresh and delicious."

"I loved the amazing breakfast sandwich on croissant."

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

Good to know

1

The donuts are freshly made daily, ensuring quality and taste.

2

Arrive early to get the best selection; they often sell out by noon.

3

Prices for a box of donuts range from $21 to $23.

20
Nickys image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with slot machines inside creates a lively, somewhat chaotic atmosphere. Offers a huge assortment of food including juicy carnitas and best beef sandwiches. Seating includes plenty of space and games in the back, catering to quick meals rather than relaxed dining.

BBQ ribs stand out with tender, falling off the bone meat and a very tasty flavor. Spare rib tips come well-seasoned and juicy but portions can be small.

Chicken sandwiches stand out with options like barbecue sauce, raw onions, and sport peppers. Beef sandwiches come in large sizes and often feature 2 for 1 deals.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and fresh."

"Their gyros and Greek chicken dinners are highly requested."

"I love the tender beef in these sandwiches."

Good to know

1

The gyro dinner costs around $13 and feeds two people.

2

Nickys charges a $0.91 fee for debit card transactions.

3

There is a $2 upcharge for pancakes.

21
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.

Chicken sandwich comes out moist and juicy with a dill sauce unique to the bar that works great for dipping fries or adding on top. Burger and sides also stand out as excellent choices.

People are saying

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

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

"The chicken sandwich was moist, juicy, and delicious."

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.

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