Best Barbecue Restaurants in River West

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

ChicagoNear West SideNorth Suburbs

Neighbourhoods

BerwynBucktown / Wicker ParkChinatownDowntown / LoopGold Coast / StreetervilleLakeview / East Lakeview

Top Rated

CharmingGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for happy hourHot spot

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral washroomWheelchair access

17 restaurants available nearby

1. Bub City

4.5

Awesome(1530)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Booked 24 times today

Bub City in Chicago’s vibrant River North neighborhood is a true gem for American cuisine enthusiasts. Celebrated for its “best damn barbecue in Chicago,” this lively spot offers an authentic taste of America with its house-smoked BBQ delights. Diners rave about the “phenomenal” mac n cheese with pulled pork and the irresistible skillet cornbread. The extensive selection of over 125 whiskeys complements any meal, making it a haven for whiskey aficionados. With live country music setting the backdrop, Bub City offers a quintessential American dining experience that promises great food, “killer whiskey,” and an electrifying atmosphere. A must-visit destination!

2. Chicago q

4.6

Exceptional(4005)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • Gold Coast / Streeterville

Booked 11 times today

Chicago q, nestled in the vibrant Gold Coast/Streeterville area of Chicago, is a haven for Southern cuisine aficionados. This restaurant masterfully blends the rich flavors of the Carolinas, Texas, Missouri, and Tennessee, offering standout dishes such as "Competition" Pulled Pork and St. Louis Ribs. Guests rave about the "fall off the bone tender" ribs and the exquisite "fried green tomato with pulled pork Benedict." The authentic Southern ambiance is enhanced by their seasonal pergola and Savannah-style dining room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With a stellar array of craft cocktails and a renowned bourbon collection, Chicago q promises an unforgettable Southern dining experience.

A photo of Briny Swine - Chicago restaurant

3. Briny Swine - Chicago

4.3

Awesome(130)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Lincoln Park

Booked 13 times today

Briny Swine Chicago is a seafood haven nestled in the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, offering an authentic taste of Southern coastal cuisine that leaves diners raving. The "amazing fried green tomatoes" and "yummy house oysters" have become standout favorites, alongside the "delicious crab hush puppies" that guests can't stop talking about. The restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity shines through every dish, as patrons frequently mention the "succulent BBQ" paired with "amazing hospitality." With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Briny Swine is the perfect spot to indulge in true Lowcountry seafood classics and savor the genuine flavors of the South.

A photo of Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar restaurant

4. Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar

new

4.4

Awesome(2330)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Booked 9 times today

Union Sushi + Barbeque Bar in Chicago's vibrant River North district is a culinary gem that masterfully blends the simplicity and elegance of Japanese cuisine with a lively urban twist. Celebrated as one of the nine best Japanese restaurants in Chicago by The Michelin Guide, Union offers a unique dining experience where "the sushi is incredibly fresh" and the flavors are "amazing all around!" Sushi Mike, the renowned chef, delights guests with his artistic sushi creations that are "a true art," making every visit memorable. The combination of high-quality ingredients, inventive cocktails, and exceptional service ensures that Union stands out as a must-visit for lovers of authentic Asian cuisine.

A photo of Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern restaurant

5. Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern

4.3

Awesome(235)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Booked 19 times today

Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern in Chicago's River North neighborhood offers an authentic taste of American barbeque with a unique flair. Guests rave about the "outstanding service" and the "delicious" variety of BBQ platters that showcase traditional American flavors. The Fried Platter and Turkey Tips are particular favorites, with patrons describing them as "something wonderful" and "extremely tender and delicious." The lively atmosphere, coupled with friendly and professional staff like Lex and Q, makes dining an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Wilma's promises a genuine American BBQ experience that's sure to satisfy and impress.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | West Loop (Union Park) restaurant

6. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | West Loop (Union Park)

4.7

Exceptional(945)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Downtown / Loop

Booked 28 times today

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Chicago's West Loop offers an unparalleled barbecue experience that truly stands out for its quality and authenticity. At this renowned spot, diners are treated to the unique yakiniku style of grilling, where "the premium cuts of meat are the star of the show." Guests rave about the "tender, flavorful, and fun-to-grill" selections, including the must-try Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib. The interactive dining setup, paired with a lively yet cozy ambiance, ensures a memorable experience. With attentive service and delectable sauces that enhance every bite, Gyu-Kaku promises a barbecue feast like no other.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile) restaurant

7. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile)

4.7

Exceptional(2350)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Booked 40 times today

Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Chicago's Streeterville offers an unparalleled Barbecue experience that elevates dining to an art form. Renowned for its authentic yakiniku style, this restaurant crowns diners as chefs, allowing them to grill premium cuts like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib to perfection. Guests rave about the "delicious food" and "fantastic experience," with the "meat absolutely amazing" and "melting in your mouth." The smokeless grills ensure a comfortable, flavorful experience, while the attentive service and lively atmosphere make each visit a memorable occasion. Gyu-Kaku is a must-visit for Barbecue aficionados in Chicago!

A photo of Daebak Korean BBQ - Wicker Park restaurant

8. Daebak Korean BBQ - Wicker Park

4.6

Exceptional(70)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Barbecue • Bucktown / Wicker Park

Booked 20 times today

Daebak Korean BBQ - Wicker Park is a standout destination for exceptional barbecue cuisine, offering an authentic and modern take on traditional Korean BBQ. With rave reviews like "the food is as authentic as it comes" and "quality of meat is superb and delicious," diners are in for a genuine treat. The restaurant's premium packages, like the highly praised Wicker Park combo, provide a diverse and satisfying experience with four types of meat and extra side dishes. Known for its friendly and attentive service, Daebak ensures a memorable dining experience that's perfect for both regular visits and special occasions.

A photo of Weber Grill - Chicago restaurant

9. Weber Grill - Chicago

4.6

Exceptional(6943)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Booked 42 times today

Weber Grill in Chicago's River North is a must-visit for Barbecue enthusiasts seeking quality and authenticity. Known for its “over seventy years of grilling expertise,” this restaurant delivers outstanding flavors cooked on genuine Weber charcoal grills. Reviewers rave about the "amazing food and service," highlighting the exquisite taste and perfect execution of dishes like the beer can chicken and steak medallions. With a welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff, diners consistently describe their experience as "fantastic" and "a great evening." Whether for a business dinner or a family gathering, Weber Grill promises a memorable and satisfying Barbecue experience.

A photo of Welcome to the Farm- Chicago restaurant

10. Welcome to the Farm- Chicago

4.0

Excellent(11)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Barbecue • River North (Chicago)

Classic American style BBQ with Caribbean + Asian influence from Chef Raheem Sealey. Drinking Pig quickly gained notoriety as “the best barbecue in Miami” (Infatuation) and named in the “top BBQ Spots In South Florida” (Eater), now it’s here in Chicago.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great service. Every server that brought plates were kind and attentive.
More info
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | West Loop (Union Park)Price: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown / Loop
•
4.7
L
Lori
Chicago / Illinois •7 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
I was shocked at how fast my food came, the waiters were very pleasant, my macaroni was cool but they corrected it with no problem. The food was delicious, the Hennessy Sidecar was delicious and I liked the ambience
More info
Wilma's Famous BBQ & TavernPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• River North (Chicago)
•
4.3
OT
OpenTable Diner
Chicago / Illinois •1 review
5.0
Dined on Mar 4, 2025
Had a 5 star experience at dinner with 10 other gentlemen. They were gracious and put us on the 3rd floor with the in-ground dinning long table. The food was delicious, cooking at our own desired pace and level made it that much more enjoyable. Would highly recommend to anyone going with a big group looking to have a great dinner or celebrate with friends.
More info
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Chicago, IL | Streeterville (Magnificent Mile)Price: Expensive• Japanese• River North (Chicago)
•
4.7
A
AmyreVIP
Chicago / Illinois •15 reviews
5.0
Dined on Mar 4, 2025
Our server, Alexis was fantastic! Bub City is a wonderful neighborhood spot.
More info
Bub CityPrice: Expensive• Barbecue• River North (Chicago)
•
4.5
R
RajVIP
London •123 reviews
4.0
Dined on Feb 22, 2025
After 2 disappointing visits I came back after a year...i loved the food this time, back to what I remembered and enjoyed about this place.. Chicken, brisket, ribs all cooked well. Good service and good value.
More info
Chicago qPrice: Moderate• Barbecue• Gold Coast / Streeterville
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

Neighbourhood
Cuisine nearby
Barbecue cuisine

River West

Barbecue

Palatine
Kildeer
Lincoln Park
Sauganash
Midway
Dunning
Evergreen Park
Arlington Heights
Lower West Side
China Town
Riverside
Northbrook
Glen Ellyn
North of Foster / Rogers Park
Roselle
South Loop
River West
Carol Stream
Wheeling
Northfield