This Is the Best Barbecue in Illinois—Here’s Why It’s Worth the Drive

Craving barbecue that's worth every sticky-fingered bite? A new list just crowned the best BBQ joint in Illinois, and spoiler alert, it's not in Rockford (but it's not too far either).

Where's the Best Barbecue in Illinois?

According to a new list from LoveFood, the answer is: right here in Chicago. The food site just released its latest roundup, "The Best Barbecue in Every State," and for Illinois, the top honor goes to Smoque BBQ in the city's Old Irving Park neighborhood.

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What Makes Smoque So Special?

Smoque opened its doors back in 2006, and people have been drooling ever since. The spotlight item? Texas-style brisket that's so tender, juicy, and flavorful, it doesn't even need sauce. Of course, that doesn't stop fans from slathering (one of my favorite words) on one of Smoque's homemade sauces.

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If you're planning your first visit (ahem, like I should be), the local move is to order a brisket platter or pulled pork sandwich, and load it up with sides like mac 'n' cheese, coleslaw, and a cornbread muffin the size of a small child.

Basically, if you're not using extra napkins, you're doing it wrong.

How Does It Stack Up to Rockford BBQ?

Here in Rockford, we've got some solid BBQ contenders, but still, Smoque is on another level. National praise, loyal fans, and brisket that'll apparently make you question every life decision you've made up to this point, especially if, like me, you've never been.

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Worth the Drive? Absolutely.

So here's your call to action:

Road trip, anyone? Smoque (3800 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL/Just off I90) is about 90 minutes from Rockford, give or take traffic and a snack stop.

Or maybe you've already been! In that case, what's your go-to order? And while we're at it, what Rockford-area BBQ joint do YOU think should be on this kind of list?

Let's give our local pits some love... and maybe plan a little weekend sauce-fueled adventure.

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