Smoque BBQ - Chicago, IL

Not exactly in the heart of the city (about 30 mins away from the downtown core by car), Smoque is worth the drive!  Classic BBQ and killer sides; it was, hands down, some of the best  food of its kind since I visited Matrin's BBQ in Tennessee.  I had the brisket and the pulled pork, with their signature baked beans, slaw and their mac and cheese.  I strapped on the feedbag and went to it, bloody fantastic!  It was a Thursday night and the place was packed, the line moves quickly though and the helpful staff will help you find a seat to devour your cow and/or pig.

The one downside, they are not licensed to sell liquor.  Not a huge deal, but a beer would have been nice with this meal.  That being said, you can BYOB, which I did not know ahead of time.  In summary, grab a few cold ones and head on down to Smoque, you will not be disappointed.