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Name: Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse
Address: 6954 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL, 60645
Telephone: (773) 675-1410
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.02

Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse

6954 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL, 60645

(773) 675-1410
Store is closed

Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse Menu

Salads And Sides

Slammin Salad

Truffled Mac

Meaty Beans

Custard-filled Cornbread

Texas Caviar

Coleslaw
Signature Sandwiches Burgers And Such

Signature Rub Panini

Pulled Pork Reuben

Rub Signature Bbq Burger

Bbq Sliders

Loaded Bbq Nachos
Famous Dry Rubbed Smoked Ribs

Full Slab

1/2 Slab

3 Bones
Meats

Pulled Pork

Pulled Chicken

Sliced Brisket

1/2 & 1/2 Combo

Smoked Sausage
Big Guys Meal

1/4 Lb Of Pork Chicken & Brisket + 3 Rib Bones
Desserts

Must Have Rub Bar-b-cookie

Finger Lickin Texas Sheet Cake

Never Forgotten Cobbler

Apple Crisp

Healthy Meal suggestions for Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse

Salads And Sides

Slammin Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Truffled Mac [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Meaty Beans [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Custard-filled Cornbread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Texas Caviar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coleslaw [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Signature Sandwiches Burgers And Such

Signature Rub Panini [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pulled Pork Reuben [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Rub Signature Bbq Burger [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bbq Sliders [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Loaded Bbq Nachos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Famous Dry Rubbed Smoked Ribs

Full Slab [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1/2 Slab [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

3 Bones [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Meats

Pulled Pork [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pulled Chicken [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sliced Brisket [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

1/2 & 1/2 Combo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Sausage [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Big Guys Meal

1/4 Lb Of Pork Chicken & Brisket + 3 Rib Bones [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Desserts

Must Have Rub Bar-b-cookie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Finger Lickin Texas Sheet Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Never Forgotten Cobbler [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Crisp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Justin M.

If you want true smoke BBQ, this it the place to go. Good prices and fast for pickup order.
(4)
Ana S.

Brisket was delicious! My favorite barbecue sauce was Smoked JalapeÃ±o and Citrus Chipotle. I loved the cornbread drizzled with some honey
(4)
Cheryl W.

Amazing bbq here! Pulled pork and brisket were phenomenal. Everybody must try the mac n cheese and custard filled cornbread. The different sauces were all equally good. Service was friendly and attentive. Will definitely be back to try the ribs.
(4)
mike e.

Ribs...not so good. Dry and chewy. I was surprised because they seem to advertise this as a specialty. I do way better myself! The brisket was good, as were the beans. Sorry - won't be back. There are better places in Chicago.
(2)
Marcin Z.

It was my first time at this place. Went there with family & friends after reviewing positive feedback on yelp. Food didnt let us down. Moreover it was awesome. Not to mention excellent customer service and friendly atmosphere. Place's friendly to people with gluten problems. Many positions on the menu when it comes to no gluten. We really enjoyed visit at this place. One of the best bbqs i have ever had. Strongly recommended. Definitely coming back when in Chicago.
(5)
Amanda W.

Always friendly staff with consistently delicious food! While I'm thrilled that I'm close to this local BBQ joint, I have also found that the adorable dining decor adds an especially nice treat if you have people visiting from other neighborhoods or out of town. My favorites: - Truffle mac - Pulled chicken sliders with their homemade bbq sauces - Brisket tacos with Texas caviar
(5)
Jennifer W.

The brisket take out from here is always delicious! Last time I called they told me 20 minutes for take out so I arrived at 25 minutes later and had to wait another 20 minutes -other than that would have given 5 stars just because it tastes so good! The dining room is small and there is generally a wait to be seated on weekend nights.
(4)
Mark P.

Our first visit and we will definitly come back! The smoked meats are the genuine thing, done over charcoal with that wonderful flavor packed crust. Waitress was attentive, honest and helpful. A small cozy place with lower prices than other BBQ we've gone to. BYOB.
(4)
Jordan K.

We ordered through grubhub. Delivery was on time, but the food sucked BIG TIME. The nachos with pulled pork seemed like it was scraped from the bottom of a trash can. The cheese was microwaved, the pulled pork was completely dessicated, and had a burnt-plastic odor to it. The cornbread (soaked in canned cream corn) was VILE. The Mac and cheese was soaked in truffle oil, which made it palatable. I guess. The apple crisp was all crisp with three bits of Apple. No good. No good at all.
(1)
Lauren M.

What a hidden gem! It's byob, and there is a liquor store across the street. My husband and I split the ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. They were all delicious. The brisket wasnt dry either! Everything is smoked in house, but nothing was overly smokey as some smoked meats can be. Everything is served with their house smoked potato chips. For sides we ordered truffle mac and cheese which was delish, and the custard filled cornbread which was divine!! The only thing I didn't love was the cole slaw. We had both the plain and the giardinera. They weren't bad by any means, just nothing special.
(5)
Candyce P.

Delicious! Pulled pork, chicken and brisket were tasty. Ribs were ok, but a little tough for my taste. I love the pickles and sweet tea! 4 kinds of BBQ sauce to choose from.. The atmosphere is fun, staff is prompt and friendly. I would have given 5 stars if they had rib tips, and if the ribs were more tender. But I will go back for more!
(4)
Brad E.

Rub has awesome food !! I seen it a bunch of times and I had eaten at Jessies the Mexican place next door but never really stopped in. So I was taking my car into fair complete auto care across the street and I had to leave my car and walk home so it was on the way home so I stopped in . I tried the nachos with brisket. They taste like awesome !! I've also had the tacos with brisket also just as awesome. The potato chips are smoked in the smoker! Different but they taste good!!! The pulled pork and chicken are also good!! If your in west Rodgers park check them out!!! Oh and it's byob!
(5)
Matt C.

Took their BBQ class and loved it. A great experience and learned a lot about real BBQ. Plus, the food was phenomenal!
(5)
Matt G.

VERY SOLID addition to the BBQ in the city. I really wish they had a more "normal" location in a more active neighborhood. Had the brisket sandwich. Came with slaw and potato chips. Could have done with out the chips, but more slaw would have been nice instead. Slaw was tasty and sweet. There were three choices for sauce on the table. I chose the two spicier ones, the Smoked Jalapeno and the Citrus Habanero. Both nicely spicy, but not ones that would light you on fire. Brisket was solidly done with good smoke and moistness. Brioche bun was a nice soft add. Good, generous portions. Will be back and like try the ribs and pulled pork.
(4)
Pamela G.

Definitely worth the drive to Rogers Park! We attended the 3 hour BBQ class from Jared the Pit master, chef, owner and were blown away with his passion for the art of smoking. He is the real deal. The food was delicious and the pit to plate experience was great. The class provides huge portions of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, truffle mac n cheese and custard cornbread while we sipped our favorite BYOB. The restaurant is charming and cozy - great setting for comfort food. Amazing prices and delicious food. We will be returning again and again. Only place in Chicago where BBQ is smoked without gas or electricity. He sources his wood for just the right flavor and BBQs to serve daily. No freezing or reheating at Rub's.
(5)
Doug V.

Outstanding ribs, awesome homemade soda, delicious sides and the service was a 10 Plus. Nothing negative to say about this great restaurant. Visit now and often
(5)
Adam H.

I order from Rubs several times a month. I've lived in Texas, California, and Georgia and am thankful for Rubs. I love dry rub and Rubs has it figured out with using true smoke. I watch these pitmaster shows online and love the meat and sides I get here. I recommend the ribs and some Mac and cheese.
(5)
Liz S.

Service and food were great. The custard cornbread is off the hook--very decadent and the portion for one is more than enough for two people. I got the pulled pork and my boyfriend got the pork and brisket combo. The pork was definitely the winner. I didn't love any of the sauces, so I was happy to take my leftovers home and use my own sauce. The slaw and chips were great. Our table didn't have pickles on it, though everyone else's did-- sad we missed out. Would definitely go again.
(4)
Reeder J.

So I wish you coukd give half stars cuz this place is the perfect 3.5. I wanted to like the place, has outdoor seating, places feels authentic, but the bbq brisket was just ok, a bit tough, coleslaw was bland as well, both 2/5, sauces maybe 3/5, but the baked beans were 5/5, best i've ever had. Nice and smoky. Place is ByOB also. Bumped it up to 4 stars because the places feela authentic feels like and tastes like something in Misssiippi or Alabama. If your cravinng bbq givw it a shor, maybe avoid the brisket though.
(4)
Matt A.

I had the honor of attending Jared's cooking class last night. The dude is passionate about his bbq and he'll give you the run down on how it works... full disclosure which is pretty cool. I very much enjoyed stuffing my face with bbq fresh from the PIT - which is also quite impressive. i also learned that this exhausting process is best left to the pro's, who has 18 hours to man a bbq pit - id rather eat this guys food any day. thank you for the experience and breakdown of a bbq pit masters workings. i'll be back!
(5)
Sally W.

The ribs (I think) are the best in Chicago. I've tried a lot, and while this will never be like Moe's, or real Carolina/'Bama ribs, this is as good as it gets here - you won't be disappointed. Brisket good enough, pulled chiken and pork a little dry. Their mops are amazing - I could drink them, honestly. Super nice staff, cute interior, nice music, good atmosphere. I think you'll be happy
(4)
Carol L.

Since I live far away in Wicker Park, the only reason I go to Ribfest is to have Rub's Backcountry because it is that good. I wasted space in my stomach when I tried Irish bistro and wrigleyville ribs. Rub's backcountry is THAT good
(5)
Olga G.

This is a review for a BBQ class, which was da bomb! My husband and I are huge foodies who go out to eat all over Chicago and wherever we travel, we cook at home a lot, and have taken a lot of cooking courses. This was by far our favorite based on how fun it was, the level of energy chef exuded, and how tasty the food was. Highly recommend to anyone, whether or not you plan to ever BBQ Extra fun for a date night.
(5)
Travis U.

Went to the bbq 101 class and it was a really good time. My fiancÃ© and I just went yesterday and the owner that did the show was a really awesome guy. Told us the art and history of BBQ and the food was good. The only negative was that the space is small and they cram 20 people into a space that should have 14-15. Also theres no exhaust fan so the smoke gets to your eyes after a while. Other then that, it was a great day learning and eating BBQ food.
(4)
Lara O.

We've ordered this delicious BBQ several times when we've had a group at the house and have ever been disappointed. We've only had the chance to eat there once and loved the atmosphere and the friendly staff. Our kids loved the food and had a great time there too. It's also BYOB, which makes it a very reasonable evening out for such great food.
(4)
Liz R.

HUGE PERK: BYOB, and they hand you a giant frosted mug, a bottle opener and a bandana when you sit down. THANK YOU! Liquor store across the street with a great selection of beer. Done and done. I am not a BBQ expert, but I thought this place was really tasty, and so did my carnivore spouse. I had the brisket burger, which was super tender and flavorful. I thought it was odd that it didn't come with toppings like tomato and lettuce, but maybe that's how brisket burgers are supposed to be eaten? Who knows. Husband got the 2-fer of sausage and pork and he loved both. We learned that the sausage (which has great seasoning and jalapenos) come from Texas, which is fine by me. The truffle mac n cheese was basically too rich for me, but if that's what you're into, then go for it. There were 4 BBQ sauces on the table, ranging from sweet to spicy and all were TASTY. Big dinner for 2= $35. We will go back.
(4)
BD C.

If you know great BBQ, Stay home and make it your self. you won't come even close at this place
(1)
Amanda M.

Wow. Just hearty BBQ. Very tasty. Also, the custard-filled cornbread was unreal. Great service. Thought their sauces could have been more flavorful though.
(4)
Dave T.

A M A Z I N G! I did buy the groupon for the class! It was a great class! And the food was delicious. My only suggestion... The benches were so uncomfortable. It was very hard to sit still. If you get the opportunity to take a class do it. It was amazing. Def will be back soon with the family to eat!
(5)
Matt W.

I'm a big fan of Chicago style rib-tips, and heard good things about this restaurant. My wife and I took the BBQ class that the owner offers, which was a lot of fun. First, all of the staff were really helpful and friendly. I'm not much of a talker, but the staff was awesome. The owner walked us through how he got into authentic BBQ cooking, which is smoking meat, not boiling it and then putting it in the oven. The class teaches how to prepare a couple dishes. The owner will let you help prepare the meat, and then gives you a sample of what you've started preparing. I'm not sure if it's the same each time, but we prepared brisket, pulled pork, ribs, cornbread, and mac and cheese. We left more than full, with leftovers, geeked to try out some of the things we learned with our smoker at home. The sauces were not my favorite, which was kind of a thing for me. I don't go for a lot of deviation from a smoky hickory flavor BBQ sauce. But then again, the owner clarified several times in his class that good BBQ shouldn't need sauce. To each his own, I guess. The sides were delicious. The mac and cheese was great, as was the cornbread. Again, the owner is a little on the experimental side. You're not going to get a classic version of a side here, but a unique and delicious twist on a proven favorite. If you like root beer, make sure to get a glass. They have August Schell's (spelling?) root beer on tap, which is an authentic root beer made without high fructose corn syrup. It's one of the best root beers I've ever had. However, I think the bottom line for the worth of a BBQ joint comes down to the quality of their meat. The meat was everything that is right in true BBQ; Wood smoked and tempered just right. If you're taking a BBQ tour of Chicago, you're making a mistake by not having this place on your list.
(5)
Brian M.

I planned my friend's bachelor party at Rub BBQ. Pitmaster Jared and his team led an instructional and fun class for our group of 22 guys. We learned a lot about BBQ, enjoyed BYOB, and left full with BBQ. Jared is entertaining and very knowledgeable. The BBQ is top rate! I would highly recommend this class!
(5)
S J.

Wow! This is my fav bbq in the city. After spending a few years in the south, eating really good bbq, I was happy to stumble upon Rub's. The mac and cheese is outta this world, the meats are smoked to perfection, and the chipotle-citrus sauce is killer. Small place with friendly staff who seem to care about the food they are serving. I've been back a few times and look forward to more yummy bbq from Rub's.
(5)
Johnny R.

Summary: You complete me Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse. I'm going third-person today because I'm starting to bore myself. John likes food. Likes really well executed food. In fact, this trait of his is annoying to be around for Mrs. John. If John is driving the bus and gets to pick the pizza place, the French place, the Middle Eastern place, the BBQ place, it's never around the corner. He never lives in the delivery zone either, always a few miles outside... and darn it he has a lot of options where he lives in the 60618. Another pin is added to the map of John's favorite restaurants. A gold one. His former fave, Smoque, is now his number 2. Rub's is now John's top BBQ restaurant in Chicago. John eat pulled pork, chicken, ribs, but it's always the brisket that he thinks about. He loved Rub's brisket... Tender, great flavors, juicy. You guys leave a little more of the fat on the meat, and it adds to the flavor. He got the big boy sampler, and had the brisket, chicken, ribs, and pulled pork. He loved it all, and usually that's a mix of rankings for him. He EVEN liked the pulled pork which is extremely rare because it's not something he typically orders. The sauces, all four, were great. By the end of the meal he was favoring the Carolina mustard sauce which he rarely finds up here in the rust belt. But the other three had a great balance of traditional and new flavors. The sweet sauce is traditional and gets it done. The Citrus Chipotle was a standout. John was observed licking his fingers and doing a pinky swipe for the last bit of sauce by a number of people. The spicy Jalapeno was neat. Summer who works there told him that she sometimes mixes the sauce, that sounds like something to do next time. His son had the burger, but as his son is young and also ranks McDonalds as his favorite burger place, so John has a leftover burger to look forward to tonight. He did take a big bite of it last night and is excited to finish it off in about six hours. So to recap, John thinks that Rub's is a gem, and encourages all BBQ snobs to try them. Don't wait until they are featured on TV and the line is around the block. Go now. The sweet tea was also excellent. He wasn't sure what kind of tea they were using, and they let you sweeten it yourself, but he found himself trying to figure out why the tea was so good... special tea used? One mint tea bag? Something extra was in there, and it was tasty. Add in very reasonable price points, a laid-back vibe, and great furnishings, and you've got a winner here. He'll be back.
(5)
Jonathan R.

This is the best BBQ in Chicago. The food is great, the sides are great, it's inexpensive; it's all just great. But be on the lookout for their LivingSocial / Groupon deals on BBQ classes. So awesome! You get the story of how the owner went from "just a guy" who loved making BBQ to the funny story of first opening the store to the great store they have today. You get very interesting firsthand lessons on how to properly prepare, monitor, smoke and cook different cuts of meat. AND it's a BYOB class so you can be sipping on suds the whole time...and you eat the BBQ that the class makes afterwards. It's so good!
(5)
Mia M.

I would love to tell you about how delicious the food is here, but I can't because they closed 6 hours early and I could not get in. I drove over an hour to come try this place. I won't be making the trip again.
(3)
Jonathan L.

So I consider myself a total bbq snob. These guys have the best I've ever had. I'm so in love with their food, that when I planned my wedding, I threw up a hail mary, and called them out of the blue to ask if by chance they cater and if they'd be open to working my wedding. I got connected with Amanda, the wife of Jared the genius behind the BBQ. Turns out that Jared and Amanda were caterers before they opened their restaurant. Amanda had experience with weddings, and she agreed to work ours. I'm so grateful that she did! She not only provided their incredible food for our wedding, but she managed every single part of it....the equipment rental, the decorating, the servers, organizing the layout, the cleanup. She was a godsend. In our minds, the unique food of BBQ at the wedding really made it memorable and different, and she helped make it run without a hitch. She was incredibly nice; she thought of every detail, and really took our stress out of the process. It was a pleasure working with her and the next time I throw an event that needs a caterer, she's on the top of my list. My point in writing this, is that you should support this business. They are great people that serve what is hands down the best barbecue that the city of Chicago has to offer. Unparalleled brisket, corn bread is amazing, beans are amazing, ribs are unbelievable, truffle mac and cheese. I can't wait to eat there again soon.
(5)
Valency H.

We really used to love this place. But when a night of comfort food for the family turns into a night of food poisoning, I just can't recommend it to anyone anymore. Clearly they need to take a closer look at whether their smoker is cooking the pulled pork sufficiently. Really sad, because I thought that they had a good thing going there for awhile.
(1)
NaNett G.

You will love the ribs & sauce! Nice indoor atmosphere! But, there's nothing else I like about this place!! I ordered takeout and seems like the second I sat down after placing my order, my food was being handed to me. I expect fast service from a fast food joint, but when restaurants such as this one deliver that quickly, I can only imagine I'm being served someone's leftovers or pre-cooked food heated in a microwave. The mac & cheese was cold, clumpy and tasted awful! Cole slaw also not good! Only a few menus at the cashiers desk, which were dirty (wash your hands before you eat)! They didn't even have printed menus to place in your bag, like most restaurants do for customers who order takeout. Next time I'll drive a few extra miles and go to Hecky's in Evanston instead.
(2)
John P.

Finally a north side BBQ joint. And a true no gas no electric smokehouse.If you like brisket then this is the place to be. Also if you don't know anything about BBQ they have a class that the owner teaches that is about 4 hours long that schools you on the proper was to smoke your meats. Also as a bonus this is a BYOB joint.
(5)
Steven S.

(Review for carry-out and delivery only) Rub, I hate you. - I hate you for allowing me to put pulled pork on top of your ground brisket burger - I hate that my brisket burger tasted so good that I'll probably have to add Rub carryout to my household budget. - I hate that you gave me all 3 BBQ sauce flavors to try since I couldn't decide when I called to order, and then I liked them all. That was no help at all. What am I supposed to do, just get all 3 every time? - I hate that your truffle mac n'cheese fooled me into thinking it was mild, and then the truffleness hit me a few bites in and made my eyes close with joy. - I hate that you didn't give me enough kettle chips and now I want more. - I hate that the cole slaw is a perfect finisher to your food, and that eating it signified the end to my dinner - I hate that my house smells like the sauces and now my cat is acting all hungry, jumping all over me for food. Rub, I hate you. Call me!
(4)
Neal S.

We've often been disappointed often by BBQ joints in Chicago - either the product is subpar, doesn't support the ludicrous prices asked, and/or is marred by unwarranted crowds or bad service. After one visit, my wife and I agree that Rub's is the *real* deal - unearthly good meat and sides, generous portions, excellent sauces, and desserts that should come with a warning against trying to tackle them alone. Both of us ended up with pulled pork in different contexts (panini, nachos), and we agreed that this was literally the best we'd ever had; melt-in-your-mouth smoky meat that had no need of sauce, either for the sake of flavor or moisture. That said, we alternated between the South Carolina Gold and Citrus sauces and loved both. The sides, often lacking at other joints, were worthy of meal status all by themselves; *do not* skip the truffled mac and cheese or the custard-filled cornbread. The homemade root beer (no ice - the pure artifact in a frosted mug) and simple syrup-self-sweetened iced tea were perfect accompaniments with ample character where just a plain Coke would have sufficed. Luckily, we came hungry, because we found space to split the peach cobbler a la mode. Served in a skillet straight from the smoker (which gave a lovely twist to the usual sweet/savory cobbler experience), there is no way one person could eat dinner here and finish this beautiful thing. Service was super-friendly, informative, and swift, even as the place went from empty to fairly busy. Background music is provided via a beautiful vintage DJ deck out in plain view at the host stand - a venue-appropriate Western Swing compilation was on the wheel of steel during our visit, and a large LP collection lives behind the counter. Depending on who's working the counter, one *might* even be able to slip one's own record into the rota. This, and the Big Boy Dinner platter at the next table we were admiring, gave us at least a couple of intriguing reasons to plan another visit soon.
(5)
bill g.

Really nice Texas brisket and REAL Texas sausage. Large portions...had to take some brisket home today as could not eat all that came with my meal. Ask for." Point brisket " as the fat makes the brisket in my view..The owner Jared is super nice. Look forward to one of the " private dining " experiences he is planning in offering soon.
(4)
Dawn B.

If you are a veggie your choices will be sides which is fine by me, the baked potato, Size of a small baby's head smothered in a Gouda cheesie sauce is delicious!!
(4)
Beth K.

Bought a class there through Google! Amanda had great follow through setting up our reservation. Class was great; we learned so much and will be much more successful at our BBQ parties. They use Snake River (Idaho) brisket; some of the best meat in the US. The food was outstanding, smokey, juicy, moist and well seasoned. The service was all great. Went to the restaurant side to powder my noise and they were all friendly and helpful there, too. Great place to find; told friends about it all day today! Good thing we worked out before going there! We'll be back there soon and use them to cater our parties this summer.
(5)
Alec K.

Walked in to Rub's and could smell the goodness. It gets your hunger going ten-fold, and boy did they deliver. The hungry guy's meal is the epitome of a full stacked meat plate. You get three ribs, 1/4 lb. of pulled pork, 1/4 lb. of brisket, and a 1/4 lb. of chicken. Every last bit of it tasted like heaven. I will have to put the pulled pork as the best part. Tender, juicy, fall apart meat with incredible seasoning you don't even need sauce. Rub's is by far the best BBQ I've had in Chicago, go and get it.
(5)
Kai J.

Rub is one of my favorite BBQ spots in Chicago. I probably eat there once a week. I decided to dine in which I never do. I ordered a panini which is my second favorite dish after the ribs. When it arrived it was burnt. The waitress agreed and sent it back. When my new panini arrived it was burnt on the under side. The waitress apologized and I was fine. Jared, the owner came over and instead of apologizing he told me he saw nothing wrong and instructed me to ask for it to be toasted lightly. I informed him this is my go to item and I've never had to tell them that before. It seemed to me like the cook got it right on one side and burned the other. When the sandwich was plated it was burn side down. I was annoyed that instead or practicing good customer service I was chastised about how to properly order my dinner. Maybe it's time for Jared to take a customer service class. I'm giving the restaurant 2 stars based on the service.
(2)
Deron B.

GET THE BRISKET! GET THE BRISKET! GET THE BRISKET! GET THE BRISKET! 2 of us shared several of the meats. Brisket was phenomenal. GET THE BRISKET! Chicken was ok - good but nothing special. Sausage was ok - good but nothing special. Ribs were pretty good, especially with their tasty BBQ sauces. GET THE BRISKET! Also got one of the custard-stuffed cornbread muffins - savory yumminess! GET THE BRISKET! The next morning, I mixed leftover brisket with scrambled eggs for a divine breakfast treat. I will be back again, and when I do, I will forgo much of the above but I will for sure GET THE BRISKET!
(5)
Anthony C.

Great little place for authentic BBQ. We had the food at a friend's house recently and really enjoyed it. So our plan on a recent Sunday night was to drive over and pickup some food for takeout. However when we walked in we quickly changed our minds and decided to eat there. The place was small but warm and invitng with the sweet wood smoke smell wafting about the place. They had a turntable at the front desk playing a Muddy Waters vinyl disc that added to the laid back ambiance of the place. The service was outstanding and very friendly. We both ordered a home-made root beer although others have said it's also a BYOB establishment but I cannot verify this. We had the pulled pork, beef brisket, truffled mac and cheese, and the cole slaw. They have 5 different kinds of home-made sauces on the tables which vary greatly and are all excellent. Everything was outstanding and we will be back very soon.
(4)
Jesse T.

I hate to give bad reviews but in an effort to have these people shape up their act I feel it's my obligation. I ordered delivery through the grub app. They received the order fine. First, it took an hour & a half to receive my order. I ordered 2 sets of ribs, the brisket, truffle Mac & cheese, and the oatmeal apple crisp with ice cream and some bread. The first time the delivery guy came, he only brought one set of ribs and the brisket. Everything else was missing from the order. Called & spoke with someone who was very nice. She said she would have everything sent back out. It took another 20-30 for the remainder of the food to come (minus the bread, they forgot that again). So, the ribs were fair enough, I'm a rib junkie so I may be over analyzing but they were pretty mediocre. They were rather tough to be honest. The sauce was probably the bed part of the meal. The truffle mac & cheese was awful - I've had better things come out of a Kraft box. It was dry and some of the noodles appeared as though they had been sitting out for several hours. I was hoping for a save with the oatmeal apple crisp but unfortunately it was an epic fail! The apples were not soft, the flavor was extremely bland and the oatmeal - I'm certain it came out of one of those easy prepare kids packs that you add hot water. It looked like they dumped a packet on top of it. I find it remarkable that the entire meal was this bad but I say with no sarcasm and all honesty, this was the worst BBQ meal that I've ever had. I'd give the person on the phone 5 stars because she was so sweet and I didn't have the heart to bark at her but I would never recommend this place nor would I want to dine here again. Sadly, when you drop a good 50.00 and the entire meal is this messed up, it's completely unforgivable. I do forgive them however lol, I just won't be dining here or ordering from them again.
(1)
Megan A.

Treated the hubby to a birthday cooking class. Jared could not have been more wonderful! He has a true passion for barbeque, and the class was just the right amount of hands-on cooking. I really enjoyed that it was BYOB, and we left totally stuffed. Brisket, pork, ribs, cornbread, and dessert...mac and cheese with truffle oil!
(5)
Jane K.

I've heard from people that it was great here and I read from certain forums that it was just okay. So, I went in with tempered optimism. First off, you walk in and instead of a regular divider, there's a huge (somewhat precarious looking) wooden hutch that guides you left to the hostess/cashier bar. The staff was super friendly and there's even a little record player on the bar that was kitschy and cute. The decor was picnic style benches and a spattering of tables. I ordered: -Pulled pork: The meat was good enough and very fatty. My biggest complaint is that it wasn't smoky enough! Where's the smokiness?!?! -Brisket: see above -jalapeno sauce: great sauce! has a nice kick to it but not overwhelming but I might be biased because I love spicy. -cornbread: the cornbread has a very moist, cake-like center to it that I think people either love or hate. I did not care for it. -cole slaw: it was good enough, fresh, nothing to write home about -beans: this was my favorite part of the meal. I would stop by just to get the beans again... it was smoky, had chunks of pork in it, mixed with kidney beans which was also esthetically pleasing and was overall delicious. GET THIS! -peach cobbler: the dessert was overly smoky and it came with vanilla bean ice cream that was more vanilla and not enough bean. Although the pairing should've been delicious in my mind. I used the leftover meat for an omelet the next morning and it was fantastic!
(3)
Sean F.

There are few things sillier than arguments about "the best" of some sort of food genre. We all have our favorites or that one place that we prefer to all others, but the idea that there is some sort of objective way to define a best of anything is just malarkey. I say this because recently someone tried to disparage Rub BBQ by saying it wasn't as good as another BBQ restaurant in Chicago. I don't know if I agree with this, but if I had to go to only one place for one BBQ meal I might go to that other place. And that means absolutely nothing when considering Rub BBQ. Because I really like eating at Rub. I like that they offer some cool spins on their meat with different sandwiches. The panini and the burger are two awesome choices, with the burger quickly becoming one of my staple burger choices in the city. The double baked potato with meat is hefty. Almost too hefty. Really good, but unless you have no plans for the rest of the day (or week) probably best to split with someone. The truffled mac and cheese is an nice side dish, and not too redolent of truffle aroma/flavor as to overpower the reason for the season, the BBQ meat. The sauces compliment rather than smother the meat. I like the citrus chipotle myself, but all three types I've tried have been pretty quality. By any measure Rub is a very good spot for lunch or dinner. But context is key. This part of Chicago isn't exactly smothered with interesting food choices, especially if you're in the mood for something "American" or "Southern". Having a place this good close enough that I can get takeout and still have the food be hot when I pull up to my front door is absolutely amazing. So yeah, someone else can argue if this is "the best" or whatever. My mouth is going to be too full of tasty meat to take part in that discussion. Also worth noting is they have a significant expansion coming soon. Having a slightly broader menu could move them into another level of excellence. I am looking forward to it drooling in anticipation the whole time.
(4)
Jen K.

Went on a Saturday night with a group of 5 around 6:30. Was seated right away which was nice. That's kind of where the top notch stuff ends. First semi-pitfall- The ribs were pretty good... although they definitely needed sauce, which isn't a great sign. First mammoth pitfall- THEY WERE OUT OF PULLED PORK. I almost started crying right there. How does a BBQ place run out of pulled pork? Everything else we had (brisket, chicken, sausage) was just OK... even the sides were lackluster, although everyone liked the giardiniera cole slaw. The dessert (the apple crisp), which I was waiting the entire time for since I was denied delicious pulled pork, was the pits. I'll stick with Smoque...
(2)
Hillari H.

It's hard to find a decent BBQ place on the north side of Chicago. Rub's is not like some good spots on the west and south sides of the city, but they are okay. Their sauces are really good. I don't know if they bottle and sell them, but perhaps they should. The place is mostly family run, and the staff and owners are friendly.
(2)
Jane M.

My husband and I took the 3-hour BBQ Class this afternoon, and I have to say, it was a near-religious experience. Before even arriving to the class, the great customer service shone through; classes booked up extremely fast (likely due to their Living Social deal, which is how we found it), and we couldn't get in before March (when we will be moving out of the country). One email to Amanda, who I later found out is the wife of the owner, and we were able to get in to a class just three weeks away. We got to the class and right away were greeted by Jared, the charismatic owner of Rub BBQ and the teacher of the class. He gave us a friendly hello and took our coats, and as we waited for the rest of the class to arrive we enjoyed chips and "cowboy caviar". The class is BYOB, but since the Mr. and i had a few drinks the night before, Jared made sure we had some pop from the restaurant next door. Right on time, he kicked off the class with a monologue on his own background and how he got in to the BBQ racket. This sounds boring but was actually incredibly interesting and has likely inspired my corporate-job husband to quit and buy a smoker. After that, we got down to business. Jared has a "no secrets" policy (he even shares the "top secret" 14-ingredient rub recipe), and the class is very informative and comprehensive. There's opportunities for class participation, including trimming a brisket, applying rubs, etc., and Jared NEVER STOPS TALKING, sharing tips and tricks he's learned in the last 10 years of his BBQ journey. And the food... oh the food. During the course of the class you'll taste brisket, pulled pork, ribs, truffle mac & cheese and cornbread infused with custard. A nap is definitely required after this class. I can't say enough about the food, the class or the experience as a whole. It would make an awesome bachelor/bachelorette party, work event, or just a night with friends. My only regret is that Rogers Park is no where close to our River North apartment... but the food is definitely worth the journey!
(5)
Jeremy D.

And they have now MOVED! They are directly on Western Ave, taking over what was Dld Grill (which is too bad, they were rather good and I don't like to see small businesses close up). For Rub BBQ though, it's bigger space with a bigger and now OPEN kitchen. Decided to try the Brisket Burger. We have a contender for the Battledome Of Burger Supremacy. It's a MASSIVE 1/2lb of house ground fresh brisket AND their burnt ends (the burnt ends can be the BEST part of the Q), topped with a very thick slice of cheddar. Sturdy bakery bun that they grill quickly and the burger for sure FILLS up the bun's circumference. You can adorn your burger with: Pulled Pork, Sliced Brisket or Pulled Chicken. I decided to go for the pulled pork topping. It was absolute overkill and it was phenomenal. From what I understand they are now offering "homestyle" Old Fashioned Root Beer... And they were out of it so I had to have the iced tea instead. Iced tea is fine, but I wanted some tasty root beer to pair with my joygasm of a burger.
(4)
Mia B.

Awsome BBQ, my husband and i love good bbq and you cannot get any better anywhere. We had the Big Guys meal and sampled a little bit of everything. We loved it so much we signed up for the cooking class, it's a late valentine celebration.
(5)
Jonathan R.

When compared to Kansas City, Texas, or the southern states, Chicago BBQ is pretty much second rate. However, Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse is still very good and well worth it. The ambiance is fun and casual and the food is hearty, generous, and relatively inexpensive. Rub's is a welcome addition to the restaurant starved neighborhood of West Rogers Park! Check out some video samples of Rub's youtube.com/watch?v=qBnZâ€¦
(4)
Sonya M.

I had Rub BBQ after goggling for something more "American" than Indian and other ethnic fares that are plentiful in the area. I'd never heard of Rub before but decided to give it a try after a friend told me that a mutual friend had been raving about it recently. The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars is because I thought it was a bit on the pricey side. $3.00 for a side of baked beans??? I love BBQ but $20 for a chicken sandwich and salad still seems slightly unreasonable. Turns out it was well worth the money though... I ordered the pulled chicken sandwich with a side of beans and it was FANTASTIC. The chicken sandwich was seasoned well, well portioned and slathered in their yummy BBQ sauce. It came with miniature sides of kettle chips and cole slaw that were just as good. (And I don't even like kettle chips!) The side of baked beans I ordered was a very nice size and worth every penny of the $3.00 I was charged. They were the perfect blend of sweet and smokey. My friend got the slammin salad with pulled pork pieces on top. She loved her food as well. I wouldn't eat at Rub BBQ Co. all the time because of the price but it's definitely one of the first places that will now come to mind when I'm craving BBQ!!!!
(4)
John C.

Best Brisket in Chicago!
(5)
Ann L.

This review is based on service and not food. I've been a customer since the restaurant opened on the Lunt side and my taste buds have enjoyed their experience. The wait staff has been decent to excellent. This last time was a corker, as they say in old books, and I won't be returning any time soon. And all because of a lousy waitress. I won't go into the gory details...and will only list the highlights. The phone was off the hook, a bummer since I wanted to call in my order and pick up. (I'm on the lunch clock.) It being a neighborhood joint, I walked to Rub's and ordered and waited, waited and waited some more. In fact, I waited 30 minutes while others who came in after me were served. (Are they prejudiced against old, white ladies who pick up rather than eat in?) When we finally got our food, I had one-half hour left of my lunch break, we discovered no eating utensils, no napkins and my friend had gotten the wrong sandwich. Rub's. Bad. Taste. Mouth. Not. Go. Back. Long. Time.
(1)
Chet M.

A very competent and formidable newcomer to Chicago's BBQ scene. Pluses - - Big St. Louis slab for $17.00 (w/chips & slaw) - Dry rub style - Sides are creative and full of flavor (creamed cornbread!) - Sauces has lots of depth - Quirky divvy dining room - Nice outdoor seating Minuses- - Only 1 type of rib offered - Brisket was a little too well done and needed salt - Need more entrees like smoked chicken - Slabs need more char or defined bark
(4)
Peter H.

Great sauces. Loved the Chipotle Citrus best. Liked the pulled Meats over the ribs. Great lil joint...
(4)
Tiana K.

After this review, the owner contacted my with very good feedback on ways that they are working making this a better place. It seems my experience was a fluke and they apologized and offered us a free meal (which we declined). About a week later we order carry out from Rub's. While the ribs and mac and cheese were tasty, it wasn't the best that we had. We will still try to make it into the restaurant at some point to give their burgers and other items a try! Perhaps after they complete their expansion and have a full size bathroom with changing station.
(3)
Ian P.

Food is absolutely delicious, and the service is amazing. Everything is slow-cooked and ready to go when you order, so it doesn't usually take more than ten minutes to get your food, if that. It's BYOB, so bring some good wine or beer and enjoy the pulled pork Reuben and some truffle Mac and Cheese (so good!). Also, delivery is super-quick and really responsive. When they forgot to include an single-portion order of Mac and Cheese to a delivery once, they dropped off the food and came back with a family-platter of Mac and Cheese for free, to make up for the error. I haven't been to the new dining room they just opened, but I'm going to soon. You can't go wrong with Rub!
(5)
Petey S.

Great place. We ordered the pannini, Reuben, mac & cheese, and peach cobbler. The sauces were delicious. Tasty slaw. Everything was great. The only thing I probably wouldn't order again is the mac & cheese - It was bland and tasteless.
(4)
Deirdre J.

We ordered Rub for our big backyard party and EVERYONE loved it so consider this a big group review! The food was amazing, the staff super helpful and everything was piping hot and on schedule. The pulled chicken, pulled pork , meaty beans and corn bread are all fantastic. It let us not sweat over the grill but enjoy the party instead. We just supplied the beer, the buns, the salads and the music...perfect party catering. Loved loved it.
(5)
Niki K.

My boyfriend talked about this place for sometime. Being this area has had a hard time keeping business going. He said let's check it out. Glad he did. We had a few people with us so we ended up grabbing a sample of mostly everything. Everything was mouth watering delicious. I've never had dry rub and I now know I love it. Staff was great. Food timing was perfect and my end thought was il def be back ;)
(4)
Elaine C.

An update: I received an apologetic response to my negative review, explaining some extenuating circumstances leading to my delayed food delivery. I will give them a second chance with the gift certificate they provided and comment later with further updates about the food and service. So far, they did the right thing and it seems as if I just caught them on a really bad night!
(3)
Jules H.

Outstanding BBQ! If you love BBQ, you need to go eat here. Flavorful, moist, falling apart in all the right places beef and pork. I had the beef brisket and my guy had the pulled pork panini. Both were great, and with drinks under $20, which is awesome. Kudos also to Rub BBQ Co for only charging $1 for soda and free refills. Right sized portions, excellent sauces. Cute outdoor seating in front, about 6 booths inside. I wish their delivery area were bigger. I may have to move as a result. However, the super nice gal at the counter informed me they are planning to expand. I hope that means more locations around town, first one in Ravenswood. If you love really good BBQ, do try Rub. Gooood stuff!
(5)
Erin H.

I ordered from Rub's after searching for the best-reviewed delivery in Rogers Park, and I was not disappointed! They obviously take their barbecue very seriously here; both the brisket and the pulled pork were meltingly tender and deliciously crusty, and the sauces are superb. The definite star is the custard-filled cornbread... I'm still dreaming about it. So glad they're in my neighborhood!
(4)
Jeffrey K.

I went to Rub's on my birthday and had a lovely time. BYOB! We tried a wide variety of items and all were excellent. The corn bread was amazing! Try the Texas caviar, the hot sauces and the ribs. The sausage is spicy but very tasty. The service was exceptionally good and the price was great.
(5)
Josh B.

I went here for the first time for the BBQ 101 cooking class this past Easter Sunday. I have to say it is by far the best BBQ I have ever tried either in the city or the burbs... I live in the burbs and will drive out of my way for good food any day.... Jared and his team know what there doing,keep up the good work... If your looking for insanely good BBQ with a great smoke taste give this place a try...
(5)
Lisa C.

There is not too much I miss about Texas, but BBQ and Tex Mex cravings get me homesick like nothing else. I still can't get a proper Tex Mex fix but Rub BBQ is going to be my savior when I need Texas style brisket. I was pretty shocked to move here and find barely any true BBQ joints after working and living by some great Texas institutions my whole life. Great BBQ was never more than 5 minutes away from me, and though West Rogers Park is a 20 min drive, it beats 15 hours back to Texas by a longshot. We took their BBQ class last weekend. I highly recommend the class to anyone who wants to understand a little more about BBQ history and regional styles since Chicago culture is lacking in this rich history. Several of the negative reviews I read below seem to suffer from understanding what this style of BBQ is supposed to be. You will be disappointed if you come here looking for meat drowning in sauce. This is smoked meat first and foremost, with sauce to be used lightly to enhance and not overwhelm. Some folks love the saucy stuff and Rub may disappoint them...but I'm the type of gal looking for meat plain and simple. Ron Swanson approved meat eating experiences if you will. Before this review disintegrates into a bunch of "Ya'lls" and yummy noises, here's a rundown of our classroom eats: sliced brisket - perfectly cooked, with the kind of fat that melts in your mouth along with the meat; pork shoulder - not a big fan of pork in general but this was tender and flavorful; ribs - meaty and delicious, cooked to retain a bit of chewiness so they don't fall off the bone like "meat jello"; truffle mac and cheese - very delicious but not my go-to BBQ side, I'll save my mac adventures for other places and load up on their custard corn bread - delicious corn pudding inside of a piece of corn bread. If you've never had corn pudding then this may taste strange to you. Try it anyways but be prepared for something different. And that's my final word of advice. Try it all, but come with an open mind because BBQ is like jazz. There are so many varieties and styles from region to region that BBQ covers a lot of territory. Certain styles will be more to your liking than others but it's a lot of fun to find out what's your favorite. In my opinion, Rub is top notch at what they do and the owner is a very passionate & knowledgeable addition to Chicago's growing BBQ scene.
(5)
Sureshi J.

The BBQ is simply wonderful and the sauces to accompany the food are also just great. I was really impressed with how tender and well cooked the meat is. Also had the peach cobbler -- which was a nice portion size, warm, and had this delightful smoked flavor. Quite well done overall. Small seating space inside, but there is outdoor seating as well. It would be nice to have a little more variety on the drinks menu; some lemonade and perhaps, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate!! The prices are reasonable and the wait time was not long either. This spot is only two blocks away from my house so I definitely see myself walking over for a quick bite or, ordering for pick-up!
(4)
Pam D.

We LOVE this place. Really we do!!! For one thing, it is fairly close to home. For another, we really enjoy the food and for a third reason the staff is always so danged nice. A few new additions since our last visit ... a nice outdoor patio, BBQ panini sandwiches and vintage BBQ cookbooks at every table for your bemusement and edification. Great BBQ, cool location and great staff. It's a win - win. On a good day, walk off your meal with a trip through Indian Boundary Park, or take your food to go and have a picnic in the park.
(5)
Jason L.

I took the BBQ class (using a Groupon certificate). Honestly, I hadn't heard of this restaurant before seeing the class available on Groupon. First went into the restaurant, which had a very casual but very cool vibe to it. Everyone seemed really happy (and real hungry) and I loved the fact that they were playing old records from their turntable near the cash register. We took the class and I can't say enough how awesome it was! A good mixture of folks, from BBQ enthusiasts to folks just interested in checking things out. Jared (the owner) did a great job of teaching the class and definitely came across as an expert but NOT as an uptight purist (you know the kind of person I'm talking about). It's BYOB and I learned and ate a lot of food. We learned how to smoke brisket, pork shoulder/butt, ribs and two side dishes (mac n' cheese and cornbread). So good!! Jared was cool and handed out recipes for everything he cooked and he's willing to share his super-secret rub recipes. Like I said, the dude isn't uptight. I'm sure in a couple years I'll be eating his BBQ at the airport, saying, "Man, I remember when this was a lonely BBQ joint located in an Hasidic neighborhood (who does that, anyway?)..." The only negative (and I don't think it really is a negative) is that your clothes smell nice and smokey when you leave. My wife said, "Ugh -- go change!" but my kids said, "HMMMM! You smell like bacon!" So glad my kids aren't cannibals -- I wouldn't have made it out alive. In short, it's a great BBQ shack with great food, great staff and great owners. I can't wait to go back and bring the family.
(5)
Rene S.

Our favorite restaurant PERIOD. The bbq is SO good, portions are huge, and it is a great menu. We've ordered ribs, brisket, pulled pork, pulled chicken, the mac and cheese, bbq beans, and the texas sheet cake. ALL were amazing. You get free homemade potato chips that have an amazing smokey flavor that is just to die for. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!
(5)
Diana J.

Good grub. The meat is good and well seasoned (even without BBQ sauce). The cornbread leaves much to be desired but their Mac and cheese is usually pretty good. I don't like meaty beans, but the bf ordered one to go last time we were there so they must be good. I suggest testing in vs carry out.
(4)
C N.

This place is a bit out of the way but well worth the trek. The Texas caviar is really fresh and tasty, the root beer natural, the meats juicy and tender, and the sauces fantastic. Definitely try the citrus chipotle and the one with jalapeÃ±o (flavorful but not hot).
(4)
Hieu H.

Having had BBQ all over the country, this place is right on par with doing things right. The BBQ is great, not mind blowing, but still great. The sides are also worth while, the truffle mac is a must have. The meaty beans, is well... meaty, but nothing special. The BBQ sauce is at times best left on the side, but if you are a sauce person, then there are 3 to pick from, all great.
(4)
Andy M.

As usual, I tried to find what's wrong with a place before really concentrating on the positives. And there are a lot of positives about this smorgasbord of swine. The St. Louis ribs they served were deceiving. At first glance, I thought the portions were stingy to say the least, but the ribs at Rub were all meat. The dry rub they used was delicious and the sauces they provide are all unique and mouth watering. The ribs are are not as well done and crunchy as the St. Louis style ribs that I'm used to, but they were quite tasty. It was a unique take on ribs that I really liked. The star of the show had to be the meaty beans. The meaty beans at Rub are a awesome combination of beans, pulled pork and pulled beef. It's a meal in and of itself. It has the look and taste of chili. It is one of the best side orders I've had in a long time. Other than the awesome food, another thing really stands out about Rub, and that's the people who work there. The woman (possibly the owner) who took my order was a food pro. She answered all my questions and did a great job telling their story. She was proud of the restaurant and really did a great job making my wife and I feel at home. The staff was top notch all the way. They did the little things that turn a good dining experience into a memorable one. All and all, Rub was a refreshing experience. They have a different take on things when it comes to BBQ and It's a style that I greatly enjoyed. Let's face it. I'm"m a BBQ whore and I'm generally very picky when it comes to where I get my BBQ on. Rub made a great first impression and gets two thumbs up in my book. I can't wait to go back.
(5)
Stephanie M.

Idk, maybe it's just me and my family but as much as I'd like to, I really do not like the food here. I live nearby and have tried the food 2 or 3 times thinking maybe it'll be better this time and it never is. Our ribs were tough, the brisket chewy, the cornbread texture wasn't enjoyable, the Mac and cheese forgettable. The bbq sauces were nothing to rave about. I keep giving this place chances because there are so few bbq joints near me but I'd rather drive way West to Smoque bbq than spend my money here again (and a lot of money we did spend). Not sure why this place has so many stars, it's really not good and I'm not a hard person to please.
(2)
Polyana W.

really good brisquet and chicken combo for around 9 bucks. I can't believe this was here and I didn't know. They were very nice inside, too.
(5)
lauren s.

Great job with the remodeling! Very welcoming. Good BBQ. We had the Big Guy dish with 3 sides. The pork was moist, the chicken was flavorful, the texas brisket was just fatty enough to be delicious. My husband and I had just enough room for the smoked apple dessert.
(4)
Gary W.

Ate at RUB for the first time at the new location on Wednesday. I have always loved the Ribs, Pulled Pork and Slaw. But one of the best items on the menu has been the Meaty Beans. This dish has undergone a horrid transformation . Once very meaty with sausage and beef,a wonderful smoky aroma and an assortment of beans. They now taste and look like canned pork and beans. We went from Food of the Gods to Busch's Baked Beans. Truly disappointed.
(3)
David R.

Ten years I've lived in the RP and this joint comes along now?? When I'm getting ready to move?!? ARGH. Rub is relatively convenient to my current commute home, and I've been doing my best to give them a lot of business over the last several weeks. The owner/operator is very welcoming and obviously takes a lot of pride in the restaurant, as well as being very appreciative of customers. They have some diner-style booths, a woody interior (real wood planks, not crummy wood paneling), assorted Americana on the walls, and a lovely, comforting smell of smoke permeating the premises. My grandmother would love the porcine tchotchkes all over the place. Of course the food is the star. The pulled pork is very very good. The meat is served sans sauce, but they use a 24-hour rub. The rub is understated, but if the meat were just a little moister, I could eat it without sauce. But why deprive myself of the pleasure? Their house sauce is top-notch. They also have a citrusy one which is not for me, and a jalapeno variety which is nice in small doses. I've always been partial to baby-back ribs, but Rub serves only St Louis-style spare ribs. Let me tell you--they may have converted me! I've never had better. They have a very tasty pork sausage link. The brisket is nearly perfect, the strongest meat in their lineup. The pulled chicken? Probably dry and underwhelming, right? Nope! Big chunks and very moist. The buns which they use for sandwiches are perfect, dense and eggy. When I took the first bite of the macaroni and cheese (aka "spiral staircase of cheese"), my first thought was "Whoa, that is some gourmet stuff right there." I've had strictly tastier macaroni and cheese before, but this stuff tastes like QUALITY, you know what I mean? With a tiny bit of ground black pepper, it is damn near perfection. The "meaty beans"? More like beany meat! It's about 60% beans and 40% sausage bits--a glorious, sagey, housemade crumbled pork sausage. A small container of that stuff is very dense both physically and flavor-wise, so you can make it last. I love to eat it with corn chips. Potato chips and cole slaw come with the sandwiches and are solid but unspectacular. There is a "Slammin' Salad" which is not much more than greens and corn (hold the cheese please) plus your choice of pork or chicken. This is a pretty weak salad, but the quantity of chicken is ridiculous. If you had a couple of buns at home, you could make the whole salad into two pulled chicken sandwiches with a bit of lettuce on them. Rub is a very solid 4.5. They have only two real flaws: 1. Lack of variety in sides. There is a custard-filled cornbread, but besides the two mentioned above, that's it. When you're eating all this meat with flavorful sauces, you want something starchy and plain to offset the rest, and the mac and cheese and meaty beans do not qualify. Those two could be independent entrees. I know that french fries aren't good for me, but they would go perfectly with this food. And you could dip them into the extra sauce. 2. Lack of variety in the sauces. The three that they have are nearly the same color and taste relatively similar. On a wall they have posted some early newspaper accolades; one of them mentions a mustard sauce in the works, but apparently it never came to fruition. Ever since reading that, I have been coveting a mustard-based sauce for their awesome meats. Overall, I love this place. They cater. They deliver. They have desserts (which I haven't sampled). They have a burger with cheddar cheese, bacon, and pulled pork (ditto--I want to live to see my children graduate college). They are BYOB. They will have a patio in the summer. I'm going to keep stopping here even after I move south. It will be a couple of miles out of my new way home from work, but absolutely worth it.
(4)
Tom K.

We go to Rub every time we get our oil changed a few blocks away, so we've been going for about 9000 miles (3 times). The ribs are great -- a little different from what some Chicago folks might be used to (no sauce added during prep). The meat pulls off the bone perfectly (not too easy, not too chewy), and the barky parts are special. But what we thought was really exceptional was the beef brisket -- skipped it the first time in favor of pulled pork (which is fine), but had it the past two times. Plenty of fat (in a good way), and the meat just melts in your mouth. Three sauces on the table -- sweet and smoky, citrus chipotle, and jalapeno. They're all good, but I kept going back to the jalapeno. A bit of burn, but nothing most of us can't handle. We haven't tried any of the optional sides or desserts, but I am fairly unforgiving of bad coleslaw at a BBQ joint. Theirs is very good, served nice and cold, and cuts the heat of the sauce perfectly. It's nice inside, and there are some outdoor tables if the weather is pleasant. I suppose there were a couple sticky spots last time we ate inside, but it's still far cleaner than most of the BBQ places I've been to. I LOVE that we have BBQ this good on the far north side. I'm looking now for distant errands to run so I can get to our next 3000 miles.
(5)
Mike V.

I'm particular when it comes to BBQ because I make 'em great myself. Went into Rub and liked that it was presentable. I expected something different since it was on a side street, but found it cozy. Parking kinda sucks because I have a giant kid-mobile. Ordered the ribs, beef brisket, and pulled pork. It was freakin' awesome. Meat was tender and very flavorful. The sauces were great and added to the smoked goodness of the meat. The sides I had were chips and truffled mac and cheese (which complimented with the BBQ, because it was very rich). I will be going back there very soon.
(4)
Alden V.

Simple is best. Often times this is the case, and it is with Rub BBQ. We went for Jared's BBQ cooking class. Jared is the owner, chef, waiter, dishwasher, and delivery driver for Rub BBQ. He's the real deal. He works his tail off. BBQ is his passion, and you can taste it. Simple. Jared sticks to what true smoked BBQ is. Spice rubbed quality meats. Real wood fire smoking and no electric cooking aid other than a temperature gauge. I don't claim to be a BBQ expert, but I know great food when I taste it and this is truly great BBQ. The brisket is really spectacular. The ribs are awesome. The pulled pork made my tongue wiggle with joy. Don't forget the sides. Custard corn bread is ridiculously delicious. I've never liked baked beans, but these I love. Truffle macaroni and cheese, enough said. The bonus of the cooking class is that he gives you all the recipes and with detailed instruction. Like, ALL the recipes except his rib rub, which no good Q'er will give out. The restaurant is small and no frills, and that's perfect. For some reason it's fitting for great BBQ to reside in a little corner place where it's okay to get a little messy. I've also had Rub BBQ in the Loop! Fooda organizes restaurants to come into the lobby of 225 W Wash and Rub has been here a few times now. How lucky I am. But, if you don't catch Rub via Fooda for a festival make the trek up to Rogers Park. It's well worth it.
(5)
Erin D.

I attended the BBQ class yesterday with Chef Jared and was blown away. I always thought I was on the up and up with the Chicago food scene but never really heard of Rub BBQ til the living social deal came up a few months ago and I purchased it. I've taken several cooking classes before and this by far was the best. Jared is down to earth and very laid back. He took the time to explain everything in great detail and when it was all said and done he backs everything up with damn good food. We got to taste everything in generous portions as it came out...The brisket was good, the pulled pork was amazing and by the time we got to the ribs I had the meat sweats ..I'm not really a rib person but they were good. And we can't forget about the cornbread and mac and cheese which were fantastic. Everything is made from scratch on site and never having a job in the restaurant industry by the time we walked out of there I got schooled in my meats and how a kitchen really works. This really is a true hole in the wall experience -- and as we all know the hole in the wall restaurants are usually the best. Thank you Jared for sharing your knowledge, the food was fantastic and what a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
(5)
Charlie G.

I went in last night to get a sandwich to go. It was the pulled pork. I also picked up the Texas Caviar. When I got home with the bag(which honestly I should have checked when I got home), I found my sandwich was dry with no sauce at all. The meat was tender but lacking that BBQ sauce flavor. The Texas caviar was pretty good.
(2)
Hula B.

food is good. i like the new location and new menu additions. cute space. byob
(4)
John S.

Awesome. So delicious. Low key decor. The aroma and taste of smoke permeates everything in this joint. From the kettle chips to the cornbread to the incredible fall of the bones ribs to the peach cobbler, the smoke binds everything together as a constant reminder that this is BBQ without ever crossing over into overpowering. They don't go crazy on options, preferring to do a few staples well. Delicious. Top notch. Super friendly staff. Good delivery. The ribs and brisket are some of the best I've ever had. Their homemade sauces are all stellar. The only middling items on the menu are the beans and the hot links. These are relatively insignificant shortcomings that I am happy to overlook given the incredible nature of everything else. Strongly recommend it, especially in the post soul food hut vacuum that the RoPo occupies.
(5)
Karmin A.

Yesterday was my first time at Rub BBQ. The staff was very friendly and informative. Great customer service! I had the brisket sandwich and my fiance had the texas cavier w/ the truffled mac. The food was decent, a little dry for my taste. The price was average, not bad at all. I would recommend it if you're a meat lover, however I don't know if I would go back again.
(4)
Richie D.

After experiencing a taste tease of Rub at the YelpHelps! event, I had to put on my tall boots and messy gloves to dig in to some true smoked BBQ. From the minute you step in, you can smell the mesmerizing smoke that seeps through the walls from the smoker behind this West Rogers Park shop hidden slightly off Western on Lunt in an ominous strip mall. Those lucky neighbors! The married owners, Amanda and Jared, are a perfect fit: she does the marketing, organizing and catering, while he enjoys his passion of cooking/barbecuing. They do everything right and don't skimp out on the details. To begin, the meat is local from the West Loop's Fulton Meat Market. Then all you gotta know is the ratio of 14:24: Their meats are rubbed dry with 14 different spices, chilled for a full 24 hours, then smoked to perfection in their hickory wood, on-premise smoker. The cozy interior has five or so booths set against their stained wood walls recycled from a reclaimed barn in northern Illinois. Each table has three secret recipe cork glass jars with their homemade sauces: Original Sweet Signature, Citrus Chipotle, & Spicy Jalapeno. Their motto doesn't lie: "RUB IT, SMOKE IT, EAT IT!" I had the BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich at the Yelp event, but had to try my favorite BBQ meat of choice, the brisket. The brisket was super tender and not dry one bit. I got it on a sandwich (8 ounces versus the dinner plate with 10 ounces) which is accompanied by a side of coleslaw and pepper kettle chips. I plopped everything above on that sandwich of mine, with their original sauce, and bit in. A meat-lovers delicacy! My crew had to get a side of the spiral staircase Mac N Cheese and the Custard-filled Cornbread. The Mac's noodles were cooked perfectly with a smokey aftertaste and five different cheeses, whereas the cornbread was the best I had ever had (this is coming from someone who usually passes up anything with corn in it). The bread had whole corn kernels and a center of creamy buttery flavor. Next time I'll get the meaty baked beans with their BBQ Burger that's stacked high with bacon, pulled pork and cheddar cheese, not requiring my creative efforts. My group left trying to decide what food items our different family members would order. We hope to spread the word about this little shop that is popular for carry-out and catering. If you love it as much as I do, pass on the word for catering events of any sizes. Their portions are large (and obviously delicious) at great prices. Or as one neighbor does, make a deal with Amanda to have her full up your own tupperware to eat their BBQ dishes daily for 2 weeks. Ask her for the story details. Oh and don't leave without racing marbles on Jared's grandfathers marble ramps. If you read this review and stopped in, say "hello" to Amanda for me and don't rub it in that you got to eat here without me.
(5)
Geoff J.

Been going here since they opened last summer. My favorite bbq joint in Chicago, especially since it is located close to Evanston in Rogers Park! Love the custard filled cornbread, meaty beans, & pulled pork sandwich! The owners are great and very friendly! Every time I go into eat there is a crowd! I'm sure they'll be expanding soon!
(5)
Chris G.

Rub BBQ is the kind of place that belongs on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. It's a little whole in the wall place with all of 4 booths that challenges the common definition of BBQ. Traditional BBQ is meat slathered in sauce (occasionally delicious meat and/or delicious sauce). Rub is, as the name suggests, dry rubbed meat slooooooow cooked. The meat is so tender, juicy and flavorful, there's no need for sauce. Just because you don't need it doesn't mean it's not available. They have three tasty sauces on the table that you can do with as you'd like. Personally, my tray is always a mess afterwards. I pour the sauce right on the tray (it has wax paper over it, so it's not sauce on metal) and take a bite with this, a bite with that. I will also mix up my own concotions (1 part Smoked Jalapeno to 2 parts Rub's namesake sauce is my favorite). Their cornbread is topped with a corn-custard layer and is probably 2-3 inches thick. Up here in the North, cornbread is typically sweeter in flavor. And when you see custard and cornbread, you immediately think sweet. However, Rub's cornbread is very much on the savory side. The meaty beans are the same way. When I think baked beans, I think lots of beans in a sweeter sauce with a little bit of fatty bacon. Rub's Meaty Beans are 50% meat, 50% beans, and have a wonderful smoky flavor (my favorite side). Rub BBQ's pulled pork has become my measuring stick for all pulled pork I eat. When I see it on the menu I think to myself, "Do I want their pulled pork, or should I just head to Rub tomorrow." When I venture forth and try other pulled porks I think, "Is this as good as Rub?" Thus far, everything has come up short. At this point, I've tried almost everything on the menu, and I'm constantly torn between the pulled pork and the BBQ burger. Fortunately, even the burger fills my craving for the pork (The burger is topped with cheese and pulled pork). The delicious, juicy pork keeps the burger moist without needing ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, mayo, or any other sauce. It's perfect just the way it is. That's what you need to know before you come in the door. You're not going to get what you would normally expect when you hear BBQ. You're going to get something different and absolutely, jaw-droppingly delicious.
(5)
Jason V.

Only been here once, but it was impressive enough for me to write a review. This place can give Smoque BBQ a run for their money, and that's no small statement. Had the pulled pork, the meaty beans, and the truffled mac. All were fantastic. Favorite sauce was the chipotle one. I will definitely be back again. Nice job guys. TIP: the taster sized portion is plenty of meat (but no bread), in case you don't think you can handle the full size sandwich.
(4)
Pete D.

A quick update, rub is still fabulous, still BYOB, but they have ditched the styrofoam take out containers for something paper based!!!! They also spin their own tunes using an actual old school turn table and vinyl LP's, which is awesome.
(4)
John B.

Maybe it's better at the restaurant, delivery showed up over an hour late. Brisket was pretty dry, maybe it would have been better with some sauce, which they did not deliver with our food eventhough it was supposed to be there. Maybe I am biased being from the south, but I won't be ordering their bbq again. I will say the ribs were great, the pulled pork also was cooked perfectly but they apply some rub on it that is god awful, once you wipe that off it's good.
(2)
Tom F.

For only having the doors open for 10 days, it seems like owners Jared and Amanda have been at this forever. I stopped in for lunch today on the recommendation of Thrillist, UrbanDaddy, and some great reviews here on Yelp. Jared mentioned they got written up in RedEye and TimeOut, too, so you might want to hustle to beat the crowds. Run by this seriously friendly pair from Rogers Park, this place is definitely tuned to awesome BBQ and great, friendly service. I didn't want to run the risk of leaving an order bagged long enough to get it home, so I opted to grab one of the 5 or 6 booths and enjoy it fresh from the kitchen. I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with a side of their apparently famous mac & cheese. Wow! The meat was perfectly cooked and well spiced, and a choice of two different house-made sauces was brought to the table. After trying and getting each one separately, I decided to mix them both on my sandwich. The multi-cheese rigatoni was just awesome; great flavor and consistency without being too rich or heavy. Definitely a 'cooked with love' dish. As I was leaving, Jared was firing up the grill out in front of the store...I just wish I could've stuck around to see what he had in the works. I'm not sure they believed me when I said I'd be back tomorrow...
(5)
David F.

They claim to be most known for Ribs but in all honesty I feel this is by far their weakest point, the stand outs include. Meaty beans Custard corn bread BBQ Burger The staff is nice if a little ho hum about being there, but overall its clean,good food and BYOB.
(3)
Suzy B.

My husband and I took the 3 hour class, I don't have a smoker but just thought it'd be a fun thing to do. Jared definitely loves what he does, with great enthusiasm and personality, makes you excited about the food. It was great seeing all the time and effort it takes to make good BBQ. Everything we tried was delicious-pulled pork, brisket, ribs and custard corn bread. My husband loved the pulled pork and I LOVED the ribs. We will definitely be going to the restaurant because I don't think I will be smoking meats for 8 hours but we are so glad he does. You can only hope that a small business owner who truly loves what he does can make a very good living!
(5)
Liz B.

We've been ordering Rub since it opened and its always been good. The additions and changes to the menu have pushed it to great!!! The meats are superb, nachos delicious, and sides are craveable! We love you Rub!! Thanks for being on the far north side.
(5)
Tami A.

The brisket and pulled pork at my son's wedding reception was delicious. Very happy it was delivered warm and the sauce variety was super. It made the reception relaxed and yummy!
(4)
Chicago K.

Dang, I love this place. I've been a few times, and on each visit the food was fantastic. The meat tastes slow cooked and like authentic bbq; the sides are mostly above average.
(5)
Tom M.

A friend got us a Groupon for the 3 hour BBQ class that owner Jared teaches in his pit room/smokehouse last Weds. BYO BTW. It covered the basics of BBQ, and while I already knew most of them going in(I compete in KCBS sanctioned contests) I still learned a few tricks, the "non" bbq folk learned quite a bit, got to get hands on instructions, and Jared is very good at keeping everyone engaged and involved in what he is doing. Now for the real reason we went. The food! Absolutely amazing. You get a fairly healthy sample of Texas Cavier(sort of a salsa with beans), beef brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, custard cornbread, and white truffle four cheese mac & cheese. Every single aforementioned item was mindblowingly (is that a word?) delicious! We left with full bellies, nice buzzes, warm fuzzies, the wonderful stink of oak and cherry wood smoke on our clothing, and goodie bags filled with 3 of Jared's specialty bbq sauces, all the recipes for his rubs, injections, and bastes, and a menu for the restaurant, which I will need, because, even though I don't live very close to Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse, I will most definitely be back with friends to dine on Jared's amazing bbq! And I HIGHLY recommend the class guys, for everyone, novices or not. It is a really fun and tasty evening. Thanks Jared!
(5)
Edward L.

I really think it's unfair to consistently compare one restaurant to another. In all these yelp reviews, the air is thick with Smoque, which is too bad. Yes, Smoque is delicious, but that's another neighborhood and another vibe. Since moving to Rogers Park, it's less convenient to make the trek down to Old Irving. I was delighted to find that Rub was a short 3 minute drive away and decided to give it a shot. Being a Texas boy, I've had my fair share of barbecue. Rub is not all the way at the top, but it definitely satisfies. The brisket was a little dry and lacked a bit of flavor, and the chicken was a bit better seasoned (maybe a bit salty), and the variety of sauces was welcome. There was a sweet, a citrus and a jalapeno -- a nice, and somewhat unusual option compared to your typical red sauces. The truffle mac was pretty tasty and the meaty beans hand a hearty bite. Food was a pretty solid 3 stars. The extra star comes from the service. Rub BBQ really are some genuinely nice folks. Not in an over-the-top, saccharine way, but they are just really nice to you, make you feel welcome, and do their very best to serve you. In this day and age, indifferent customer service is all too common. Kudos to you, Rub, for being a friendly smokehouse joint on the far northside.
(4)
Claude P.

This place is awesome. I always overeat here because it's worth stretching my gut. Home made root beer, great sauces, good quality meat. I also suggest trying their burger, it's made from brisket ends all ground up into burger meat. Usually burgers get passed up at BBQ places. Don't pass it up. It's insane. Go with a group and swap bits of food to get a taste for all the awesome stuff. Can't wait to go again.
(5)
samaiya e.

To be clear, we have, in the past been serious devotees of Rub. The food is great, and the service has typically been fine. Until today, that is. We placed a simple order for delivery, which we've done dozens upon dozens of times before. Three things went ridiculously awry: 1) The person who took the order gave the wrong address to the driver (note we live in the same neighborhood, less than a mile from Rub and get delivery on a weekly basis, sometimes more) which resulted in my husband having to go for a stroll to find her...the words Farwell and Morse? Share no easily confused commonalities, so this was just plain lack of attention to detail on their part. 2) The order was wrong. We ordered the following: 2 orders of pulled pork tacos 1 the normal way (which includes tortilla chips) 1 with extra cheese and kettle chips. A slice of cake Lots of citrus sauce They sent: Six tacos thrown into one container with no way to tell which, if any had extra cheese (we checked, none of them looked like they had cheese at all). Two containers of kettle chips (no tortilla chips in sight). Two citrus sauces (granted "lots" is not a precise numerical value, but I don't know many people who would interpret that to mean 2, and to be clear, I teach second grade, a population amongst which estimation skills are not the best). Cake 3) I called to inquire about the problem. This, frankly, is where the real trouble started. I've had delivery mistakes from Rub and elsewhere before. Historically at Rub, they've been kindly and quickly corrected. This time? Was terrible enough to prompt this review. The person on the phone, Summer, was beyond rude. She behaved as if the mistake was my fault, was snarky, catty, and just plain unprofessional. When told that the order was incorrect, her response was "well, do you want more citrus sauce?" Ummm, no, I wanted what I ordered. When told that I wanted to contact the manager, and asked for her name she said "whatever, talk to the owner, it's Summer" and offered email and phone. Her tone was consistently disrespectful, and when she called back again to get my address she continued in that vein, and then asked my phone number....THE NUMBER SHE HAD JUST DIALED, when I pointed this out? More attitude and a "I had to go through the caller ID and make two wrong calls to find this number again" yeah? Well you found it and dialed it, clearly. Summer was, by far, the RUDEST person I've ever dealt with, period. I'm not sure if she's usually there or some sulky teenager hired for the summer, whichever the case, her behavior has turned my former favorite BBQ place into a no fly zone, and I WILL be contacting the owner.
(1)
Sarah M.

I really wanted to like this place - especially when it smelled heavenly upon walking in. Unfortunately, other than the really friendly service, there is no reason to go back. My husband and I were looking for BBQ on whim one night and found this place on Yelp. Turns out we got there as they were almost closing, but the staff were so nice and never made us feel like we needed to rush. Loved the ambiance too! But the food... We tried the brisket, the pulled pork, and the custard cornbread and didn't like any of it, including the sauces on the side. The sauces and cornbread were just a matter of taste - sauces were all too sweet and the cornbread was just too mushy of a texture. The meat was a different story. The pulled pork was so fatty it was almost inedible, and the brisket needed the flavor of a good smoky sauce, and as aforementioned, none of them quite fit the expected smokiness we were hoping for. We won't be back, but I didn't want to give only one star - the staff were stellar after all!
(2)
Russell H.

Love me some bbq, and Rub does it right! Meat: Ribs - delish (Ribfest winner in 2012!) Pulled Pork - very good, not the best but still very good Chicken - Decently flavored, tender, but just didn't compare to anything else Brisket - Amazing, only issue is they keep the large amount of fat on it which detracts from your overall amount of meat portions :P Sides: Mac & Cheese - Very good, definitely an adult version of it Kettle Chips - good, but they give you like 5 chips when you carry out Dessert: Texas Sheet Cake - moist, decent size slice, and tasty, a nice treat once in awhile. Other: BBQ Nachos - My roommate got this one time we were there, the $10 price may be a lot but then you get them and you realize $10 isn't enough. It's like 3 lbs of nachos: chips, cheese, coleslaw, beans, and choice of meat. Sauces: All are good to great, with the Jalapeno sauce being slightly worse than the other two. If you're eating in, bring your favorite beer as it's BYOB!! Parking can be a hassle as well.
(5)
Elaine P.

I decided to try this restaurant on a friend's check-in on Facebook. Since I am always on the hunt for decent rib joints on the north side, I have to admit I wasn't impressed at all. This is one of those places that use a dry rub on the ribs, but many places give it a LITTLE glaze at the end to caramelize, giving you a good mouth-feel. Sadly, this place did not. The meat was sandy-textured, tough on the bone (not a bad thing), and room-temperature sauces are available to moisten the meat. Two of the three sauces had a high vinegar taste and the third was more molasses-y. My ten-dollar to-go order only got me a half slab, a side or two of sauce (not ladled on the meat), cole slaw and KETTLE CHIPS! Whatever happened to fries and Wonder Bread? I may give it a second chance, if only to try a side of meaty beans, but they can keep the ribs.
(2)
Addie S.

It's a very small place, but luckily we got there early and didn't have to wait in line. I love the decor - lots of unique touches. It's not quite as good as Smoque, but a really great BBQ spot on the north side! The spare ribs were amazing - definitely the best part of my meal. The flavor was so wonderful, I could have eaten them without sauce! The root beer was delicious and so were the baked beans. The mac & cheese was a little bland and the custard cornbread was not my favorite, although it tasted better with honey. I will definitely be back for more awesome barbecue!
(4)
T S.

Ordered the Big Guy's meal to try everything and all 3 sauces. The good- 1) quality of the meat is OUTSTANDING! 2) SMOKY FLAVOR!!! The smoky flavor thoughout every bite! 3) sweet sauce was very tasty. 4) super fast service The bad- 1) needs salt! 2) portion size...a little small for the price. 3) hot sauce was not hot at all just a little sour 4) chicken was too dry
(3)
Emily S.

Holy ***t I loved it. I work up in Evanston and when driving home I kept spying their storefront and thinking 'I must go to there'. The Friday after the fourth we decided to treat ourselves to a bbq explosion. And that it was. An explosion of taste and cake and cuteness (the place itself is nicely decorated and all the food comes on adorable antique trays). I got the 1/2 & 1/2 platter with Brisket and Chicken. Loved 'em both. My darling got the 1/2 and 1/2 with brisket and pulled pork. We split an order of corn bread (good sharing size, put the honey on it.) and we each got our own side of mac and cheese which was a good idea as I wouldn't have wanted to share that at all. A nice old man at the next table told us that the peach cobbler blew his elderly mind, however we opted for the texas sheet cake. We each got our own piece, but I think that was a little extreme as it is huge. In the picture I'm uploading you can see the half of it that I had left over when my body could not physically take in any more food. And now i'm eating it for breakfast while I write this yelp review. The cake is my dream of chocolate cake. Eat the cake. Enjoy your life. Go to Rub's!
(5)
Kristina K.

Great food! Really tasty, perfect portions...we had the 1/2&1/2 plate of pulled pork and brisket and brought half home. The barbeque chicken nachos were filling and every bit was gone in a wink. Try the authentic root beer as a starter. The peach cobbler was terrific even though we were stuffed....this is a bargain and we will return. BTW the service was excellent,too.
(5)
Mike F.

10 months ago I wrote an average/ unimpressed review for this place, primarily because I had SUCH HIGH expectations felt the side items (Mac N'Cheese and Baked Beans) left a lot to be desired despite the excellent customer service and atmosphere. Anyway, not long after (though I just noticed it now) I received a very genuine and concerned note from the owner inviting me back to retry some of the menu items, as he believed my experience was so out of character it had to be a fluke. Let me tell you, I work with small to medium sized businesses day in and day out and trust me when I say - NO ONE does that. I don't care if I liked the side items or not, any business that cares so much about it's customers experience gets my glowing seal of approval. I'll definitely make it a point to go back and give them a second chance.
(4)
thomas d.

if the double baked potatoes with the KICK ASS brisket is ever removed from the menu I will re-visit my review and have EXTREME troubles being objective. this place has their shit together!!! this is what eating in Chicago is all about. if Guy F. ever comes here and ruin it I will ruin him next. I suggest you grab the take out, if you eat in you may take my parking space and that will result in serious problems. but go here! damn it's good. the owners TAKE PRIDE and that's the main selling point.
(5)
Michelle P.

I just need to update and say that I love this restaurant so much! I think about it all the time and would probably eat here every day if I had the money and it wouldn't make me gain 50 pounds. Since my last review, I've also tried the truffled mac & cheese, custard filled cornbread and the meaty beans, as well as a gigantic mug of the root beer. Everything is awesome. I'm actually wishing I was going there for dinner right now.
(5)
Bobby M.

Im from the south, I know good BBQ and this joint is superb. Way more affordable then most BBQ restaurants here in Chicago. I got the combo platter with sliced Brisket (a little fatty but great flavor) and pulled pork. My husband and I split cornbread (it has custard and corn baked right in) and the truffle mac and cheese. Strangely one of my favorite aspects of the meal was the coleslaw. The meal was excellent. I will continue to visit this place.
(5)
Lisa P.

We was hankerin' for some barbecue, so we ordered up some delivery from Rub's. The minute we got it in the door, the mouthwatering fragrance of hardwood-smoked meat got our attention. We were very impressed to discover that our food had been packed in very sturdy paper cartons rather than styrofoam! They truly won our hearts for that choice. Even so, it's really about the food, not the packaging. And yup, these folks know how to do barbecue properly. The brisket got a big thumbs up from the southerner in our group. Personally, I thought the ribs were the best. I also loved the beans. Our only complaint, if you can call it a complaint, is that the portions of cole slaw should have been bigger. We loved that slaw. Delivery from Rub's is going into our regular rotation.
(4)
Carol P.

I was looking for a BBQ place close to home. This is one of the only places that wood smokes their food in Chicago. The beef brisket is awesome. Their ribs are wonderful. Both are flavorful and tender. They do not hide the taste of the food with bbq sauce drenched all over the meat. The sauce (which they make) is in a plastic container for you to put as much as you want on your food. I was not fond of their truffled mac because I was expecting the traditional mac n cheese, but it taste more dressed up, like it belongs in a fancy restaurant. There is truffle in it, and a bunch of different cheeses. I guess I am not so fancy! Their custard filled cornbread is to die for! It is a must try, but it is more of a dessert than a side with your bbq. But it is soo good! Then we got the Living Social deal to take their class. Jared was great! Down to earth and nice guy. There is no secret ingredients, he is willing to share exactly what he does. It is a lot of work to make their food, but so worth it. The class is BYOB, and it is not a complete hands on. He will call for volunteers to help while he shows us what he does, but smoking BBQ is not really meant to be a hands on class. The Texas Cavier was soo good! I would have never thought to order it. It was a appetizer at our table, for us to nibble on while Jared spoke. It was a veggie rich dip to go with chips, almost reminding me of a salsa. I would order it again. It was a great date night thing to do, and the food was great. We even got to take the leftovers, since there was so much food. You will definitely not leave the class hungry!
(5)
Diane K.

Something very bad has happened here. Perhaps a sale? An ugly divorce? An as yet un-attended-to pain pill addiction? Something. Something sloppy and tragic has made the once bastion of the best BBQ in town fall, and fall ugly. Back in the early days of ill-fitting seating in the then nearly always empty original location, the attention to deal was impeccable. "Everything, absolutely everything right down to the coleslaw is shear perfection!" That was my regular Rant-on-Rub for 2 years. Now....not so much. In fact, not at ALL. The last two in-restaurant visits included dry tasteless and nearly sauce-less slaw and a general decline in customer care. But today....things hit bottom. Our take out order consisted of rubbery chicken having none of the former signature smokiness and all of the earmarkings of leftovers heated up in the mic. The custard that used to be in the cornbread now is just an undercooked goo slurry, a treat for the enthusiasts of raw cornmeal and tepid cream, but nothing even resembling the custardy perfection that this place used to crank out like clockwork. And you can forget about that killer truffled mac & cheese. What was served today is more aptly labeled "troubled mac & little cheese." No taste of truffle oil at all and little if any cheese, just bland wallpaper slop over mushy noodles served, by the way, in what I'm choosing to believe was a burnt rather than dirty cup. The entire take out order is sitting in the trashcan. This pains me to my core. This was my RAVE place, the place I was proud to know about and bring new people to. I'm disappointed in you Rub. You know better. Pull yourself together!
(1)
Doug D.

Being open only less than 2 weeks, I decided to give Rub BBQ a try since I love BBQ and it is hard to find great pulled pork and ribs. One thing is sure about this restaurant, they do things their own way and don't follow the traditional BBQ joint recipes which I appreciated greatly and makes them a must-try. I had the KC style ribs, cornbread, beans, and mac and cheese. My wife had the pulled pork sandwich. Before I review each portion of my meal I need to say that the BBQ sauces, a smokey chipotle sauce, and a milder vinegary BBQ sauce were absolutely fantastic and unique, unlike any BBQ sauces I've tasted before. By far the most surprising part of my Rub experience. The ribs were perfectly smoked. Great flavor, perfect texture and came off the bone nicely. I'd get them again. 1 full slab is perfect for 2 people. The beans were very interesting. Different than your traditional BBQ beans. They were very meaty and had a sage flavoring. I went both ways with the beans, I like them alot or I thought the sage was just a tad too much. Regardless they are unique and worth a try to see if you like them. The cornbread with a custard filling was a bit disappointing. I guess I like more traditional honey glazed cornbread with my BBQ but props to them for trying things their own way. Mac and cheese was a bit disappointing. A bit dry and not very cheesy. My wife says the pulled pork sandwich was very good. I had a small bite and would agree and with how good the sauces were would douse it in the sweeter sauce. Rub is a small BBQ joint up north that is worth a try because they are unique with new twists on BBQ sides like cornbread and beans. The traditional BBQ staples overall were great. The sauces are amazingly unique, flavorful, smokey, sweet and a must-try.
(4)
renee k.

I really wanted to love this place because I love bbq and it's less than 10 minutes from my house, and I'm too lazy to fire up the smoker in winter. First of all, they've moved around the corner to 6954 N. Western. I tried Rub right after they opened.. The ribs were okay, but served at room temperature. The cole slaw was excellent -- creamy, cold, fresh. Kettle chips were served because they didn't have french fries which was not a plus. Based on that meal, we never went back. Last Saturday, we noticed that Rub had enough staying power to re-locate to bigger digs, so we decided to give it a second try. It's a much nicer space than on Lunt -- rustic in a good way. But, I can't say that I'll be back. Although there were only two other tables of diners, the wait for food was ridiculously long. There were three people in the kitchen, but they were inefficient in getting orders to the tables. True, they were also doing takeout, but there needs to be some better organization to fill the table orders. If they preceded the meal with some bread or chips, or something, it wouldn't seem like such an interminable wait for food. The owner was there, so we thought he'd go in the kitchen and pitch in, but... . The deal is that you order at the "desk" and pay in advance (tip jar on the desk), and a LOT later, they brought the food. This system is odd in itself if for no other reason than we couldn't figure out who our wait person was or how you tip with this method. Do you put the tip in the jar right after you pay before you know how the service is? Why not just have someone take your order at the table and serve you start to finish? They still don't have french fries. Instead, you get a minuscule serving of kettle chips. I mean teensy. The creamy cole slaw isn't creamy anymore and was served room temperature. Although the restaurant is called Rub, I could barely discern the rub[s] on any of the meats. There are three sauces on the table that are pretty good, but again with a name like Rub, you shouldn't need the sauce. Alas, you do. We had the brisket which was declared fatty and although smokey, rather bland. The pulled chicken which is tender, moist white meat was tasted and dismissed by one member of our party, although I thought it was the best of all the meats we had The ribs, again, were not even warm. I'm not a big pulled pork fan, but that was voted the best by my two companions. None of our party enjoyed the custard cornbread -- too mushy. Thinking that part of the problem might be due to their recent move, I tried Rub again a few nights later. Slightly less wait time, but food hadn't improved. And, how can they send out that teensy, tiny amount of chips? Not even what a chip package would call a serving. Why not raise prices a dollar and send out a reasonable amount of chips if you're not going to have fries? Serve the meats hot, make the cole slaw creamy and cold. Get the serve time shortened, and I'll come back.
(2)
Craig S.

Fathers Day -- My choice -- so 6 adults shared order of nachos topped with pulled pork, then on to a family style meal of pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked sausage, truffled mac n cheese and corn bread. Dry or with the great selection of sauces the food disappeared like magic. We could not leave without trying the peach cobbler and apple crisp both served warm with french vanilla ice cream with six spoons. The desserts had a wonderful smokey taste that was incredible. We remembered to bring a cooler of our favorite adult beverages and they were kind enough to supply frosty mugs to drink from as we sat outdoors enjoying the afternoon.
(5)
Matt T.

You know, BBQ is really blowing up in Chicago and I have a spot two blocks from my place. I love BBQ and been a fan of places like Smoque for years and when Rub opened up about 2 years ago I was most excited. In reality, I've only been there twice as the lure of Smoque and other locations is too great and the fact that I don't eat BBQ too often as it's not always the healthiest thing to eat. After a recent carry out visit with my wife last week I've concluded what I did after the first time eating food from here: it's just okay, nothing great. The pulled pork is fine, but the flavor does not blow me out of the water. The meaty beans might be the showstopper here as they were excellent. I'm torn on the mac and cheese. Formerly called the "spiral staircase of cheese", I finally had this last week after being renamed and perhaps remade. The mac is decent, there's truffle oil in the recipe and you can taste it and I'm not adverse to eating this but it's not great mac. Not nearly as good as the mac at Smoque. The salads are pretty ho-hum. My wife ordered a pulled pork salad which was basically field greens and some corn with pulled pork on the side. The dressing was mediocre; overall nothing to write home about. Finally, to the brisket. I had Smoque's brisket last week which is just cooked perfectly. It's moist and tender, it falls apart, has perfect texture and crust and has a great smokey flavor. The brisket at Rub is much different. It's a bit tender but a little dry. There's no falling apart here and there's no crust. The brisket looks like something my grandmother made. There 's nothing defining or eye-opening about the brisket. Rub does have three different kinds of BBQ sauce and they are all pretty good. Nothing really stands out to me and I enjoy Smoque's sauces better. Overall, nothing excites me that much at Rub. It's so close that I'm sure I'll be back to try a burger or something else but there's nothing pulling me back here. I suppose if I'm starving and lazy I can walk or drive over but there's a list of usual spots I'd go to first.
(3)
Robert M.

Avoid this place. Service is slow and the place has little atmosphere. Not very accommodating.
(1)
Eugenia E.

The dedication and passion of Jared the owner of Rub's country is so inspiring. It is also evident in his food. I have never had such flavorful smoky bbq meats. The flavor of the ribs will not soon be forgotten and the brisket!! Don't expect to get sauce covered meats and in the class we took, we learned that sauces are not necessary if you have well smoked meats. The class is really fun and worthwhile! Honestly, for me, better than Smoque....
(5)
Karen Z.

Fun, friendly & dee-licious! Nice people, here, in this sorely needed restaurant in an otherwise bereft of anything interesting neighborhood. So glad the folks at Rub decided to settle in here. Rub keeps me in this part of town for good barbecue. Everything else I want, I get in the car & leave -- drive right past all those empty storefronts. Here's hoping Rub stays & inspires other good businesses to move in. Lord knows, we need 'em.
(4)
Carolyn G.

I am glad to finally have a few restaurants within walking distance of my house and was so happy to see this place open. What they lack in atmosphere, they more than make up for in taste. The first time we decided to give Rub a try, I called to place a take out order at 8pm and they were out of ribs. I can understand, ribs take a long time and they had not anticipated the demand. I'll go back and try the ribs another time. Instead, we ordered a brisket sandwich and a pulled pork sandwich. Both were very good. I also really liked the BBQ sauce (esp. the darker sauce). We ordered a side of mac cheese and a side of meaty beans for variety. I agree with other posters, the prices for these items seem quite steep for the amount of food you get. But, they did both taste really good. And, yes, the spice (sage?) in the beans is VERY strong. But, overall, pretty good. I'll definitely go back - after all, they are walking distance from my house, which makes it quick and easy! I just hope they have ribs next time. :)
(4)
Mike T.

Real BBQ comes to West Rogers Park!!! If the first 3 days of business are any indication of the future, we're looking at a potential home run by owners, Jared Leonard & his wife Amanda in their new venture. I've had their perfectly spiced & slow smoked BBQ ribs, their tender hand-pulled pulled pork sliders, Loaded Mac n' Cheese, their new take on cornbread (custard-filled & "out-of-this-world"), and for serious chocolate-lovers, Texas Sheet Cake. I've been in twice and each time they've been sold-out of their Meaty Beans; clearly I'm missing something special. Thank you, Jared & Amanda for taking a chance to open a new business in these trying times! Not only are you feeding us well, you've given the neighborhood a perfect place to gather & meet old friends and to make new ones.
(5)
Netta S.

Cute country back porch kind of feeling. Located west of Western on Lunt. Parking sucks. Ordered the brisket with meaty beans , loaded Mac n cheese and Cole slaw. The meat was very well flavored opt for the dark sauce. The meaty beans lacked character. As for the Mac n Cheese don't bother. I would give them my recipe, but I would have to kill them. If other meats are as surprisingly good as the brisket,an improvement in the side dishes will make this s favorite.
(3)
Jason H.

Update: We justfound out they deliver and so we had to order one late night after work. The food was great. Hot, fresh, and fast! My fellow diner even said afterwards...this was really satisfying. We had as dessert the applecrumble. Wow! Loved. Great job u guys.. So glad u deliver now thnku:)
(5)
Brad S.

The food here is amazing! I am from the south, therefore, I claim to be an authority. The St Louis style ribs are ultra-tender and taste fantastic. I order them practically every time. I did try the pulled pork ance and it was as good as I've ever had. When I eat bbq, I want good beans and coleslaw- and this place delivers. Even the mac and cheese stands out. I've been going here since they opened, and I will continue to do so as often as possible. Update: I'm irritated that I took the time to review one of my favorite places and it is flagged. Yelp needs to change their filtering process because this is a huge blight on what they do.
(5)
Scott L.

This place is so good I don't know where to start. The service and food are exceptional. What I love about rub is they don't need to sauce up their meat like most places (smoque). The meat is so tender, that they don't even give you a knife. So flavorful even without a drop of BBQ sauce. They do provide sauces on the table for those who prefer some zing. I personally like the homemade smoked jalapeno pepper sauce. The meaty beans are the best beans I have ever had and should not be missed. It's BYOB, I brought in a few bottles, and they were nice enough provided me with an opener and a frosty mug! The prices are reasonable, but parking is scarce, no lot, street parking only.
(5)
James W.

Ordered pick up from here for me and my girlfriend. A pound of pulled pork, family sized truffled mac and cheese and wood-fired peach cobbler. My experience was nothing but pleasant in terms of ordering and picking it up. The waitstaff were very friendly and attentive both in taking my order and making sure they brought it out to me as soon as it was ready. They asked me what type of barbecue sauce I wanted and I told them I wasn't sure so they gave me a three different types and 2 cups of each. The place had a relaxed vibe, they had some r&b playing on a record in the front of the joint, and wooden benches inside and out for seating. Definitely want to dine in next time. The pulled pork was amazingly juicy, tender and smokey. It came with kettle chips and coleslaw. The kettle chips were smoked which was interesting, not sure if I really cared for that. The mac and cheese was amazing. It's supposed to serve 3-5 but my girlfriend and I had no trouble destroying the whole thing by ourselves. The Wood-fired Peach cobbler was really good and generously portioned, and as the name suggests, it was smoked as well, but it somehow worked really amazingly. If you want to get some pretty authentic barbecue on the far north side, this seems to be the spot. Definitely coming back.
(4)
J M.

Delish Q me up! Great sides, good service, tasty assortment of sauces & tender, smokey meats. We had the 1/2 & 1/2. Generous portions of chicken (moist) & brisket, also tried pulled pork. Worth the trip. Mac & cheese was special with its truffel oil addition. Next time dessert :)
(5)
david k.

Miss Smoky Bears as they wer easy and close but just discovered this side street gem- pork cooked to perfection- spicy smoked barbecue sauce worked better than the dressing on the salad loaded with pork, cranberries and goat cheese- wanted to try the cornbread but i had to take a pile of pork home from the salad
(4)
Jess B.

Love this place!! Their variety of sauces will please any fan of barbecue and their pulled pork sandwich is to die for. The one item I truly can't live without... Their custard filled cornbread. It's sweet, creamy and delicious! Not to mention their warm desserts with ice cream smothered on top :)
(5)
Eagle R.

Dear BBQ Gods thank you for bringing real BBq to the north side of chicago. I waited for my second visit before posting a review as the first time I experienced their food they had run out of ribs and brisket. How does a bbq restuarant run of out of ribs and brisket; when there's a rib fest going on....that's when! So I gave them a second chance and thank god for second chances. The brisket was so tender it melted in your mouth if that's even possible. All I know I was looking for more. We also had the chicken, the beans, baked potato all flavored and seasoned very well. I agree with the earlier review the corn bread and custard is a special treat don't forget to ask for honey if you like that sweet & salty combo. And best of all they DELIVER!!! Can you believe that!
(5)
Diablo L.

Really 3 1/2 stars , really good ribs , love the different sauces , never had a bad experience here....worth a try.
(3)
Gray G.

We had the ribs, brisket, beans, mac and cheese, corn bread and sheet cake. They have a small selection, but it's all excellent. The meat is all delicious and moist. It doesn't have a heavy smoked flavor, but it's still really good and the 2 sauces provided are great. The custardy layer on the corn bread is fantastic. Mac and cheese is solid and so is the cake. Not a fancy place by any means. I imagine eventually they will redecorate, but your really there for the food. And the price is nice. Also, they have high chairs, but the place is small and it was packed when we were there.
(5)
Paco R.

Worst BBQ I've ever had. For a barbecue joint having only St. Louis Style Ribs is a major oversight. Baby Backs should at least be an option. I could even forgive the lack of Baby Back Ribs option if the overpriced St. Louis Style Ribs were actually good but they aren't. I ordered a full slab and was met with ribs that were tasteless and tough as tire rubber. Bread on the side, which in all other rib shacks equals a slice of white bread, consisted of a sandwich bun. Seriously?! Don't look for Fries or anything else needing a deep fryer on the menu either because they lack a deep fryer. My wife was disappointed in her dry pulled pork sandwich as well. The BBQ sauces were locked tighter than Fort Knox in their containers and nearly impossible to extricate. Presentation was poor as well. The full slab was cut up into individual ribs and placed into a paper holding tray. No where on the metal tray was there anywhere to discard the rib bones. They teach cooking classes at Rub as well which shouldn't be allowed considering the quality of their food. Overall, a very poor example of BBQ. I suggest Hecky's, Uncle Willy's, or Uncle John's if you want quality ribs in Chicago.
(1)
Jonathan G.

So we tried the Rub for the first time last night, the food is stellar and very reasonably priced. I'm so glad there are some more options in West Rogers park. I had the pulled pork plate, which was 10oz of pork with chip and coleslaw for 6.99. The pork was great! I'll be going back for sandwiches in the near future. Can't say enough, I'll be giving them a ton of my money in the coming years! PS.. get the cookie, it's amazing.
(4)
Hayley M.

This past year was my first away from home at college. All year long one of the greatest things about coming home was getting the brisket from rub. It's always been my favorite. I usually go there once or twice a week during the summer. So when I came home for the summer my family went to Rub and ordered the brisket. The old brisket was savory, smokey, not fatty at all, and so so flavorful. This new brisket is disgusting. I dont know why they changed it. It has a good smokey flavor, but is too fatty for me. About 1/3 of it was fat! I went back another time hoping it was just a bad batch, but it was the same. I have been informed that this new brisket is more traditional than the old one, but sadly I will not be ordering it anymore. To each their own. This is not to discourage new customers from trying Rub. This review is just about the brisket. If you like traditional brisket, go for it, but it's just not for me. Everything else at Rub is still fantastic--their pork, chicken, and sides are delicious-- and I will continue to go there probably just as often as I did before they changed the brisket.
(3)
Troy B.

I've only had take out from here twice, only for the first time last month. Loved the brisket, really great flavor. The pulled pork was good, chicken is ok. Ribs were another big hit with us. Can't decide yet which sauce I like the best, either. Guess it's time for another trip!
(3)
Julie W.

I would definitely order here over and over again. this is one of those places that if you get delivery, the food gets to you just as good as if you got it directly from them. Not only was the flavor of the rub really good the tenderness was perfect and worth the wait. I have to confess and please don't let this story keep you from ordering because i bet it only happened to me. My delivery was 2 hours late because my delivery guy got a speeding ticket and I'm sure he was a mess after that. The girl I spoke to over the phone was super sweet and was genuinely concerned. She even took the initiative to deliver the food personally to me and felt really bad. When I took my first bite of the ribs I thought "I knew this was worth the wait" the order even came with all three BBQ sauces which was a nice perk. I didn't care for the mac and cheese or the cornbread. I cleaned up the coleslaw. The chocolate cake the gave me was YUMMY! It was moist, chocolaty, and not too sweet. You can tell they made it and didn't just throw in a cold pre packaged brownie like other places. Next time i'm going for the full rack and cake!
(4)
Herine C.

My husband and I took the three hour course that Jared Leonard offers and it was spectacular. We had a blast sampling (/inhaling) the brisket, ribs and pork shoulder. M just came back from a BBQ crawl across Austin TX and was mightily impressed with everything Jared put in front of us, as was I. The sauces are extremely complementary to the meats, original flavors, and not too sweet or cloying. I love that Jared uses only wood-powered smokers -- a recent development, but you can really taste it! The truffle mac and cheese and custard cornbread are both fantastic. They make the mac 'n cheese to order!!! This is our new go-to place. By all means, peruse this awesome family-owned and operated joint!
(5)
John A.

The dinner my girlfriend and I had here was so unpleasant I actually felt I had to sign up with yelp to write a negative review. A lot of reviews on yelp seem to be either 5 stars and glowing, or 1 star written by someone who appears nuts and has a bone to pick or other agenda. I'm really not a crazy person. I'm also shocked at all the 4 and 5 star reviews about this place. I've had a lot of BBQ. My lowest common denominator is something like Famous Dave's or the pulled pork at Buffalo Wild Wings. It's not awesome, but it'll do in a pinch, and they get it reasonably right for a big chain. I've also had awesome bbq at mom and pop places, and stuff I was slightly disappointed in at other mom and pop places. Rub was actually inedible. My best description is a bad church potluck where everything was made by someone else so nothing went together well, and people weren't that great of cooks. I ordered the brisket. My gf ordered the half slab or ribs, and we got the mac and cheese, beans, and corn bread to share. Brisket - the first few bites were unremarkable and I thought "well, this isn't as good as I expected but its not bad." but as I got deeper into it, it got worse. They didn't trim the brisket very well before smoking it, so I got a ton of fat. They served it in a paper basket type container, and it all sort of congealed together into a big ball of fat. It became inedible and I felt like I was going to gag after eating it for a bit. I haven't gagged from food since I was like 8 or 9. My gf thought the brisket was like bad oxtail soup. Ribs - My gf felt like the ribs were not smoked, and had been finished off under a broiler. The dry rub was non existent, and she felt that she can make better ribs in her oven. Mac and Cheese (or spiral staircase of cheese as they called it). I like mac and cheese. It's one of my favorite things. There are so many ways to make it, and I've had all different kinds varying in quality. This was the worst. I think they just packed the pasta in with 5 kinds of cheese and baked it. They used a very pungent cheese that didn't go with anything. The first few bites were kind of meh, but as I ate more, it got worse. Beans - They had pork sausage mixed in with the beans, but I'd say there was more pork sausage than beans. This was probably the best item we had out of the 2 kinds of meat and the sides, but it still wasn't good. It had a strange flavor and didn't go well with anything else. Corn Bread - This was about 3 inches thick and covered with custard. I love corn bread, and I've had all different versions. This one was again, probably the worst corn bread I've had. It had absolutely no flavor. Not sweet, not salty, just like I wasn't eating much of anything. No grit of cornmeal. The custard also had no flavor which made its texture seem especially strange since it had almost sort of congealed. I've never asked for a refund of money at a restaurant before, but I almost wish that I had. Instead we just left and got some takeout thai food since we were still both so hungry and just couldn't eat any more. I think this is the first time I've ever walked out of a restaurant without finishing my meal. I'm a foodie, but I can eat most anything.
(1)
Eamon D.

Just terrible. The ribs were fatty and clearly boiled to save cooking time, the pulled pork had almost no bark, and we got exactly one tiny container of unremarkable sauce (one sweet, one vinegary) for each entree. Even the Bar-B-Cookie was disappointing: the center was good, but the outer two inches were hard as a rock and inedible. Zero chance we'd ever order from here again.
(1)
Al I.

Delicious brisket. Good quality meat. Not so overly smoked that it tastes like hot dogs (which is what happens when you do it wrong). They had some fancy cornbread thing that had custard in the middle. Crazy rich, can't see eating that every day, but I'm glad I tried it. Overall, our first experience here was great and I'm sure we'll be back.
(4)
C C.

I grew up in the south raised on BBQ (I think there might have been BBQ sauce in my baby bottle) and I've sampled just about every BBQ joint in Chi-town. Rub is by far the best in the midwest! The food speaks for itself. In fact, it often hollers at me, making me sad Rub doesn't deliver to Colorado. I'm addicted to their pulled pork!! Being from a large Italian family, the food experience is just as important as the food itself. Such a warm, inviting atmosphere with two of the nicest folks in Chicago. Family owned and it shows! Please open up another Rub in Denver!
(5)
Jack M.

The Pulled Pork Reuben is to die for. Also, the Meaty Beans are incredible. Talk about a great place to go for a satisfying meal. I hear they are doing well and getting a good amount of business. There is very good reason for it. If you go in, you will find out first hand why that is.
(5)
Sheri S.

Took the class, descent for an afternoon, but not really a hands on learning how to class unless you plan on buying a smoker. But good food and now have a take out / possible catering option
(4)
John B.

C and I visited Rub on Tuesday evening. I was rather disappointed (stunned) to find that they were out of brisket and pulled pork . . . at dinner time. Which is why we came. Time for plan B: We ordered the pulled chicken plate, an order of meaty beans and custard filled corn bread. Turned out that the chicken was actually very good, especially slathered with the sweet and smoky BBQ sauce. The meaty beans were really good, as was the corn bread. It's BYOB and has outdoor seating. You order and pay at the counter, but they deliver the food to your table. We'll be back to try the pork and brisket and will write a follow up review.
(4)
L D.

I love this place! It is nearby and the St. Louis Ribs are moist! We have returned at least five times with the same result: Excellent! The mac n cheese is made with a smoky cheese, so I'm a fan. I have gone to many Chicago BBQ Joints, which include the local haunts. This can wipe out Hecky's, among others mentioned above by fans of those joints. I am clueless how anyone cannot be a fan. This is comfort food that is near the house.
(4)
Nicole V.

Thank you Rub BBQ! So exciting to finally have some great brisket here in Chicago. I now have my destination for amazing comfort food this winter. The couple that owns this quaint little space is extraordinarily friendly and more than willing to talk about the menu and what might tickle your taste buds. I went with the brisket (sans bun), paired with salt and pepper chips and a cup of slaw. For sides my friends (the yelpfamous Richie D. and his partner George) and I decided on mac'n cheese and custard corn bread. After we were brought our BBQ of choice we were faced with three choices of sauce; house, smokey and hot. I tested all three and found my favorite to be the house. The brisket was so moist and delicious, flavored perfectly and I was pleased to find a bit of bay leaf mixed in. The portion was hearty and cost next to nothing. I had enough left over to enjoy it again for lunch the next day. Both of the owners came over and asked us how everything was and offered a few charming stories regarding how the business was going. Many of their customers order for catering purposes or to go and sometimes even for weeks at a time. I can completely understand why! I'm looking forward to trying the pulled chicken and meaty beans the next time I visit. If you are a fan of BBQ please head over to Rub and give the brisket a try! The BBQ and the down home friendliness make this cozy little spot a permanent favorite of mine (I'm also charmed by the cute homemade marble game in the front...give it a try!).
(5)
John C.

I've been here a few times for lunch and it has always been great! My lunch favorite is the cheeseburger with pulled pork on top. All the sauces are great and pretty unique. The baked beans are fantastic, the peach cobbler is to die for, blues on the stereo, I think I might move in! I'll have to go for dinner some time and check out the rest of the menu. Pretty, pretty good!!!
(4)
Seth M.

Rub I love what you are trying to do and also bring us some options in West Rogers Park, but please whatever spice you are using on the meaty beans and everything else overpowers any subtleties. Mac and cheese is killer though...
(3)
Amy K.

This place is delicious. I've been here twice in two days. Definitely can't make a habit of that, but its sooo delicious. I've had the pulled pork panini with smoke provolone, the pulled pork sandwich, the mac and cheese that is made with white truffle oil, and the apple crisp topped with vanilla bean ice cream. The sandwiches come with a side of cole slaw and kettle chips. Oh man. All of these things have been delicious! I'm from the south and know and love my bbq. This place is the best I've found so far up north! Good prices for the quantity and quality of the food that you get. The service is fabulous. All of the employees/owners are very kind and friendly. They are also honest. My friend was debating between the small or large mac and cheese side and the guy working said that the large would probably be too much so he'd go with the small. I appreciate that he's looking out for the customer and not just trying to earn his money. The ambience is no frills...but that's how its meant to be. It feels like the bbq places I eat at back in the south but just on a smaller scale. Also, there's patio seating and this place is BYOB. I will for sure be back here! Excited to have found this hidden treasure!
(5)
Mary Ellen P.

First, I should start that we never get the chance to go out to eat. So when we do, it better be good becuase its not gonna happen again for a while. We went to Rub on Saturday night with our young son, another couple and thier young son. We realize this is not the dream situation for any dinner outing. Rub is close to the park, so we wanted to grab some dinner before we headed to the park. The owners were so very understanding and not at all put out by our entourage. That right there can sell a mom on a resturant. But the food REALLY sold me. We literally ordered almost one of everything. And it was all good. Of the sides, the table's favorite seemed to be meaty beans and the cornbread. All the meat selections were fantatstic. The sauces good as well. The peach cobbler dessert was the icing on the cake. We got it to go and took it to the park. Perfect summer dinner. Perfect summer night. We are just so excited that we have a great BBQ in the neighborhood, close to the park, and run by some really nice people. Can't wait to go back.
(4)
Aaron B.

Best Ribs, Pulled Pork, Mac&Cheese and Cornbread I have ever had. I will be a regular for sure.
(5)
Susan L.

How can a BBQ restaurant run out of ribs at 6 p.m. on Independence Day Eve? We planned our family holiday dinners on the 3rd and 4th to enjoy the great food we've had from Rub in the past - but the fact that they can't manage their inventory to such an extent was terribly disappointing. Then to add insult to injury, the next morning I was greeted by a blast e-mail from them that they were "open on the 4th." I hope they got an adequate shipment of ribs from their supplier in the intervening hours to meet the demand such marketing could generate. Although the food is great, we can never again count on them.
(1)
Jamie J.

Love this place. Did the groupon for the cooking class. We left super full with leftovers as well. Tried nearly everything on the menu. Very good bbq.
(5)
Kurt R.

Took a BBQ class here with a friend. Best culinary experience in my life. Jared has created an authentic BBQ restaurant by using the basics and not cutting corners. Everything is great, but the Brisket is the best in the city - no mistake about that. A bit north of the city, but worth the trip!
(5)
Paul F.

The bbq meats were very good. We had the chicken and the pulled pork. Rich, with a subtle smoke flavor that allowed the other flavors to come through, and their sauces are excellent. The sides were a different story: dry, oily, uncheesy mac and cheese ($3 a side), and too-sweet cole slaw (included with the sandwich). I brought home the mac and cheese and added my own cheese sauce, but it was still nowhere near as good as the stuff they serve at Stanley's. The small side of cole slaw was ok, but you would do better to get the Deluxe Cole Slaw from the deli counter at Jewel. The prices are high, especially for the sides, considering their plain Jane hole-in-the-wall storefront on a side street off of Western Ave. I'm glad to see a new bbq place in Rogers Park, but I wish it was better and cheaper.
(2)
Mac B.

Where's the smoke? For my money, you know you've been to a great barbeque place when you, your hair, your clothes and all your possessions within the near vicinity smell like smoke. I found the ribs, and especially the brisket, pulled pork, and pulled chicken lacked the intense smokiness that I like in barbeque. I wanted to like this place better. The owner Jared is a really nice guy and he likes to talk shop about barbeque. But there was just nothing that I ate here that blew me away. The ribs (St. Louis Style - no baby backs...which is a good thing) were tender yet not falling off the bone, which they shouldn't. So far so good. But I just need more smoke The sauces were decent...at least the regular and the spicy. The sweeter one is a little too heavy on the molasses flavor for me. I'm hoping this review helps them to make a few tweaks so that they can stay open, because we need people to keep alive the art of barbeque. Brisket - It's hard to do well, I think they did a decent job, but brisket is really not my thing. Pulled Pork - the meat was good, however still could have been smokier. Pulled Chicken - Not all that smokey either, but since this is the only way you can get chicken here, we have to deal with it. I would like if they would mix some dark meat into the pulled chicken for more juiciness and flavor. Ribs - I don't care that they don't have baby back ribs which taste inferior to St. Louis style, have less meat, worse texture and just are not as good. I wish Chili's had never made that stupid commercial ("I want my baby back, baby back...) I would have liked it if the ribs were a little less fatty too. Meaty Beans - pretty dammed meaty..in fact too meaty, but at least they taste good. I think they could be done better with half the meat. Mac & Cheese - Do not order this If you have any sensibility of good mac & cheese. I mean, how can you just mash-up cheese and macaroni together with no care of how the finished product tastes? How about some milk, cream, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, butter? (oops, I think I just gave away my secret recipe). Custard filled cornbread - tasty and moist with some kind of filling that is not custard. I wish it was served in smaller pieces. I would rather the ribs be packaged in a foil bag than in foil over-wrapped by Styrofoam. I hate Styrofoam. Where are the french fries?!?!?!!? How can a BBQ joint NOT have fries? They could drop the crappy mac & cheese. Please add them to the menu, preferably steak fries, skin on. Overall, I liked Rub, but since I don't live that close by, I don't think I''ll be coming back. If I lived in the neighborhood, then I'd probably go back a few times. For comparison sake, I would say that this place is no where near as good as Smoque, not quite as good as Brand BBQ Market, but better than Honey 1 or Ribs and Bibs.
(3)
Adam C.

Wasn't a fan of this place. The ribs were cooked OK, but had no flavor. Couldn't taste that there was rub on them at all. It was as if they came out of an oven. The brisket was nowhere near tender enough to be called BBQ. It was tough and contained some fatty connective tissue that made it inedible. At no point did I get a hint of smoke from any of the food there, isn't that the point of BBQ? On a positive note the sauces were pretty good and you'll need them.
(2)
John B.

their ribs are the Saint Louis Cut (aka STL) from the spare rib..so it may throw people off who are only use to baby backs. but cooked right...the STL cut are my favorite...much more flavorful than BB's. I like that they are lightly seasoned and smoked...plus that they have several sauces on the side. negative is that "to go" they cut the slabs into single ribs and wrap them in half slab foil sections. their beans..aka "the Meaty Beans"..were savory. Brisket bits.with onions, peppers and a boat load of beans. Did not try the Mac and Cheese or the Corn Bread..but will try them the next time I am in the mood for BBQ. but it is a close BBQ place when I do not feel like breaking out the smoker. 3.8 out of 5.
(4)
Keith F.

I had the pleasure of stumbling onto this new establishment upon recommendation from some friends we were visiting on Lunt. We ordered delivery on Saturday and the food came hot and quick. The pulled chicken was really good - very nice smoked flavor. Went for the spicy sauce and it was perfect -- I like great BBQ flavor with a pinch of hot. The kettle chips were good as well, somewhat peppery. I am definitely a fan of the custard topped corn bread too! Next, I need to try the brisket....so I will be back! I love to support small business and it's a plus they take AmEx as well!
(4)
Susana D.

3 sauces on each of the 5 tables, sure-footed execution of a focused menu--especially the succulent brisket. Friendly service and good tunes (blues and bluegrass)--and speaking of blue, a pair of beat cops stopped in while we were there, a sure sign of hearty deliciousness.
(4)
Nolan S.

I gave then 3 stars because they are new and maybe some things will change. Went in on Sunday and they were very busy. The lined moved quick enough and the food came out quickly. I ordered the pulled pork sliders which were very good. Wife had the pulled chicken (which was all white meat) and very good. Food was room temp at best. Would have liked it hotter. As others have said the home made sauce is Amazing! the mac and cheese was dry and a very small portion for an extra $2.99 the corn bread was good but not great I will def give it another try. I would think they should do something to try and keep the food warmer and maybe reconsider either portion sizes or prices.
(3)
Joe S.

took a smoker class at rub's today and at first i was completely blown away by the brisket. stayed for the rest of the class and the pork butt was great followed by some supremely great dry ribs. what really blew me away, besides for how accommodating and the genuinely sincere jared and his assistant ryan were, was the pound of brisket i ordered to take home after the class had ended. i ate this glorious piece of meat, cold, standing in my kitchen like it was my last meal on earth. words cant describe the enjoyment....just go to this place.
(5)
Sarah Z.

Finally stopped by to eat here after driving by for months. I got the pulled pork sandwich, hubby got the bbq burger. Both were great. The pulled pork melts in your mouth and was full of flavor. Hubby loved the burger, which is topped with the already-mentioned delicious pulled pork. Sauces were delish. I LOVE creamy coleslaw, and have high standards. This one didn't disappoint, though it was a bit vinegary for my tastes. We also shared an order of cornbread. I totally expected it to be sweet (which it's not), so that was a bit strange, but once I got over that, I thought it was good. Not sure if I'll order it again, but we finished it, so how bad could it be! Sat outside on the patio on a Sunday afternoon; not a bad way to spend an hour! We'll be back.
(4)
Laura M.

First thing you should know is I do not normally like anything with BBQ sauce. Despite that statement I LOVE Rub BBQ. I've been here about once a month since it opened and it keeps getting better. The meat is always tender and juicy. And the sauces are flavorful and unique. And you must get the mac and cheese. Amazing. (And I live in Wisconsin. I know mac and cheese.) The service is fantastic. Not a requirement at a small, casual restaurant, but the owners are great people who genuinely want to take care of their customers. Great food. Great owners and service. And they keep adding more to the menu each time I'm there! What else can you ask for?
(5)
Sarah O.

I was looking for a new place that delivers in Rogers Park and I stumbled on this place while looking on Yelp. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich, brisket sandwich and a small mac n cheese for $23 including tax and delivery- i called at 6:30 on a Friday night and my food arrived before 7. Very happy with the service and I did like the pulled pork more then the brisket, but that is just my preference. My kids liked both. The price is more then reasonable and the service and food even better. Will order from hear again soon.
(4)
Coco P.

Ok, now they've got a gigantic smoker and the ribs are AWESOME! We brought them home and while eating them, I put down my plate and turned to my husband and said "Something's burning, I smell smoke". He stared at me and said "That's your food". Doh! And I did this 3 times! The ribs were full of such smokey goodness I thought there was a forest fire outside. OK, I'm an idiot. But the ribs are amazing. And so is the brisket, custard cornbread, and the Texas sheet cake.
(5)
P C.

Outstanding ribs at the Northcenter Ribfest earlier this month. Congratulations on their first place win in the judges competition. The quality of the ribs served was well beyond what most of the other vendors had to offer.. This business is a great one to have up in the 50th Ward. Keep up the good work!
(5)
Ignacio D.

Rub ribs are as good as any that I've had, and not just in Chicago. I am not a big fan of the custard corn bread, but I come here for the ribs, not the bread. If you must get a side, go for the smoked mac and cheese.
(5)
Maya A.

So glad to have a great restaurant in Rogers Park! I have been in several times with different groups of friends and family - quite uniquely, everyone has loved what they have ordered!
(5)
Seamus M.

I've tried almost everything here and the only time I'm disappointed is when they happen to run out of something I want. The staff is friendly, the prices are more than fair and the food is delicious. What more could you ask for?
(5)
Sandy G.

Very friendly staff and service. EXCELLENT pulled pork and mac n cheese. Like the casual, down-home vibe. Great BBQ!
(5)
L B.

We've been here several times now, both in the dining room and take out. We really enjoy it! We've tried the pork, brisket, chicken, and ribs. The chicken is actually my favorite, which is not typical for me. Their chicken is moist and tasty though. A close second is the pork. Tender and juicy, with plenty of smoke flavor. I'm not usually a huge fan of brisket or ribs, so while I do like Rub's versions they are certainly not the first thing I order. My husband loves them though and gets both! I also LOVE the cornbread. It's not your typical cornbread--it has this baked in creamy layer that adds moisture and yummy, yummy fat. It is rather plain as some other reviews mention, but something about the sweet, creamy layer is just awesome. I'm not joking when I say I would happily eat cornbread and nothing else for my meal. Two misses for me are the mac and cheese (I cannot stand truffle oil so this is out for me). I also didn't care for their smoked sausage--way too smokey for my taste. Otherwise, this place is a big hit!
(4)
Brandy B.

I think I would really give it 3.5 stars, but I'll stick with 3 for now and bump it up if they improve as they settle in, since they've only been open a bit over a month. We went for their "Grand Opening" this weekend, which featured free cake and tastes of their meaty beans. As others have noted, it gets a bit confusing when the place is crowded - when we walked in, all the tables were taken, so when the woman at the counter asked if it was for her or to go we were like... uh, we were hoping for here?? She said it looked like a couple tables would be done by the time our order was out, and she was right. I get the feeling they were expecting more carry-out orders and instead people are going for sit-down and now they don't know what to do. The service was pretty slow, but that might be because of the Grand Opening rush. I got the brisket sandwich, my husband got the ribs. Now, the major downer for me - the brisket tastes like pot roast, not brisket. I'm not sure I believe it's smoked at all. Barbecued brisket sandwich is one of my favorite foods, so this was a big disappointment. Once I poured a good amount of their red sauce over it, the sandwich was tasty enough, but it did *not* satisfy my craving for a brisket sandwich. The ribs were pretty good - you could taste the spices on them, which were good. They were very much not fall-off-the-bone style, not at all tough but not super-tender either; again it seemed like they either hadn't been smoked or just not smoked *nearly* long enough. But I thought the flavor was good. Their sauces are unique, though not my favorite sauces ever. The red one is sweet and spicy but a little vinegary while the brown one is chipotle flavored. I do prefer my sauce a little spicier and more toward the tomato than vinegar end, but that can be hard to find outside of Kansas City. The cole slaw was very good. The meaty beans were tasty, more sausage than beans - not really my thing, but my husband really liked them. As much as Rub plays up their "gourmet sides," I was hoping/expecting the kettle chips to be homemade, but they were definitely from a bag. They were fine, but for the price I was hoping for a bit better. The cake was good but nothing special. A reasonably moist and dense chocolate cake with a chocolate glaze - but the slices they were handing out for free were a single layer less than an inch tall. Not $4 worth of cake! I saw someone with some of the custard-filled cornbread, and it was about the size of three slices of cake for half the price. I'm hoping that this is just the free sample size - the cake would be great with maybe three of these layers, with a nice mousse or fudgy buttercream in between. Overall, because it's literally right down the street from us I'll likely give them another shot or two, and update my review if they improve. If they weren't right there, though, I'd have already forgotten about this place less than 24 hours after eating there.
(3)
Anne S.

They have an outdoor patio now, and deliver as well!
(4)
Joe J.

Sorry to say that my first review on Yelp is on the negative side but I was very excited to have BBQ right across Indian Boundary Park from my front door. I have been in 3 times since they have opened and have been very disappointed. Maybe it is all about the RUB and not about the smoke but I like smoke penetration and there is none here. As a matter of fact my first few foray's in smoking on my Weber grill had more smoke penetration in them. Overall everything lacks flavor and the don't do fries which are a must have side for me. The portions are small and the prices are high and I am not sure I am going back for a fourth thy. If you want good BBQ and still want to stay in the neighborhood head over to Howard Street and go to Bar-B-Que Bob it is no frills and beats this hands down.
(1)
Dan M.

I Love It!! I'm So Grateful to Have A Great Place To Come And Pick Up Dinner In My Neighborhood! WE've Been Here Probably A Half Dozen Times, And Honestly, We've Never Been Disappointed. My Husband Always Gets Their House Burger With Pulled Pork and Melted Cheese, I Usually Get a Slab Of Ribs, or The Brisket. The Quality is Great, WE Love The Sides (LOVE The Mac and Cheese, Love The Meaty Beans, LOVE The Corn Bread). The House Sauce is Our Favorite.
(5)
Bruce B.

I knew we would not be disappointed on spotting the two empty police cars (illegally parked) outside and discovering that the officers were enjoying a fine Rub dinner. We enjoyed the smoked brisket, and the Jalapeno BBQ sauce added a nice kick
(4)
Erica M.

I absolutely love a well kept secret of a restaurant, and Rub BBQ Company is such an example. My b/f has been a regular patron of RBC for a while, and I finally tried them out this weekend. I had a chance to talk with the owner, and really fell in love with the fact that he takes from all the many ways bbq is prepared across the US. So now onto the food...I had the pulled pork sandwich, and it was delish! It was tender and not soaked in a ton of sweet bbq sauce either. It was just right. I could even tell that the sandwich had a consistent smoky flavor, which wasn't overbearing at all. Try our RBC when you get a chance. This is the type of restaurant that I hope stays around for a while just based on the fact that the have a quality product and good bbq is sorely needed in Chicago...esp on the northside. :)
(4)
jawa l.

Best pulled pork sandwich in town!
(5)
Emma C.

Mmmm, really excellent main courses, and a wonderful addition to the neighborhood (East Rogers Park is hungry for new places to eat!). The brisket was melt-in-your-mouth tender, my son declared the short ribs the best he'd ever had, the sauces were as succulent as anything I've tasted in Texas and the frosting on the moist sheet cake was divine. The restaurant was filled with the sounds of chatting neighbors, and the AC kept a crowded joint comfortable. The only reason it's not five stars is the sides need a little work; the mac and cheese is very pedestrian, and they should probably throw in a bag of chips on the side of their sandwiches, especially since they are just a little bit pricey, even bringing prices down by a buck an order would make a difference in how often we return. Another vegetarian option (meatless salad?) would be nice for people coming in with non-carnivorous friends ($7 way too much for the full order of mac and cheese), and a steam-table set-up might streamline for the lunch crowd...whatever. Pardon the suggestions, in fact, the restaurant is only a couple weeks old and already serving up plenty of deliciousness, I'm sure they'll figure these details out and five stars will follow. The owners are absolutely lovely and will deserve all the success that is surely forthcoming. Glad you're here, Rub, we'll be back!
(3)
Merid L.

I've eaten in the best. This is one of the best. Small, not fancy, impeccable service. Writing this makes me want to drive up there. Street parking is painful, but it's the city. A simple favorite is the Brisket burger. Melts in your mouth! Having dessert seems silly unless you do it once. After that, you will order dessert as a regular part of the experience. Wish I lived closer!
(5)
Rose H.

Another Northside Gem. What can't I say about this place. Let me start with the classic rock and roll and blues that is playing on a real turntable. Next we have the house made sweet and spicy pickles that are pretty good. I had the beef brisket and pulled chicken tacos. The salsa is amazing and the meat is smokey and equally amazing. Let's end it with the real Root Beer in a frosty mug. This place is great. New fav!!!
(5)
Megan M.

Why wasn't Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse there when I lived, like, 5 minutes down the street? I now live 5 hours away and am super sad because they have the best bbq brisket I have ever had. I live near Murphysboro, IL which "they" are trying to turn into the bbq capitol of IL. No way! No place in or around Murphysboro is as good as Rub's. I am still dreaming about the custard cornbread as well. Where were you guys in 2004?!?
(5)
Gabriel T.

After moving away from Georgia, I thought I would never eat good peach cobbler again. I am happy to say that Rub's Backcountry has proven me wrong! The BBQ is very good and the range of sauces is satisfying. Just save some room from those generous portion sizes so you can try one of the desserts. My husband and I eat there a few times a month and we usually bring a friend or two. The staff is always friendly and the service is great.
(5)
Michael V.

Came to Rubs on a Tuesday night with a friend. Had seen them pop up on several best bbq in Chicago lists and was anxious to give them a try. They use a real wood burning smoker without any gas or electricity which I thought was pretty unique! They are byob too which is really cool for a bbq place. I ordered the 1/2 and 1/2 platter with pulled pork and brisket along with a side of mac n cheese. The single servings of the side items are HUGE! I can't imagine how big the family style sides must be. The mac n cheese was done with truffle oil and it was quite good. The truffle flavor wasn't overwhelming which I like. The pulled pork was really good, some of the better pulled pork I've had in the city. Brisket was a little fatty and cut kind of chunky. I definitely liked the pork better. Sauce wise I liked the citrus chipotle and the carolina mustard the best. The other two were kind of meh. If you're doing the Chicago BBQ tour you should stop at Rubs! It's worth the trip up to West Rogers Park!
(4)
Joani O.

First, I want to thank Jared the owner for not only acknowledging my recent complaint, but also for making amends with a replacement order. There's nothing worse than business owners who don't acknowledge service issues or apologize for dissatisfaction. They obviously heard me, because the 1/2 and 1/2 meal we had today was much better. The pulled pork wasn't greasy this time at all, and the brisket was MUCH more lean. Both had good flavor, and we were given brioche buns (yum!) and made delicious sandwiches. We also had a 1/2 slab of the ribs to try, and while they weren't as much of a hit, they were decent. I prefer my ribs a bit more tender than these were, but they did have a nice authentic, smokey flavor. I covered them in my favorite barbeque sauce and liked them a lot more. (They have a variety of sauces and were kind enough to give us some of each, yet we don't care for them. They are heavily based in vinegar and just not that good to us.) We had the beans again and noticed an additional bean type in there. My family loves all kind of beans, so this was a welcome addition. The meat in the beans was leaner, as well. Now we know what we like here, my husband and I agreed that we might have them again, especially for sandwiches, asking that the meat be lean with little fat. We might dine in for the experience and try their desserts too! Overall, this experience was MUCH better. Thank you again, Jared!
(4)
John Z.

This little joint recently won the "best ribs" title @ RibFest Chicago, however nobody in my party ordered the ribs. What we did order was really good: Pulled pork, sliced brisket, and the chicken panini, all excellent. Real BBQ, (no gas or electricity) everything cooked in hardwood-burning smokers. Oh, the side dishes were great as well, we had the mac & cheese and the very unique custard-filled cornbread. The star of the meal was the dessert: the smoked apple crisp w/vanilla bean ice cream. Out of this world! It's a little hard to find, an unassuming little storefront on Western Ave, but well worth the effort. If you enjoy real BBQ, you'll probably like this place. The portions are pretty large, so remember to save room for dessert. There are a couple more desserts that I would love to try, I'll have to go back again in the future.
(4)
Tia B.

On my tour of the best BBQ joints in Chicago, we discovered Rub's. O. M. G! They mean it when they say they don't use electric or gas. It's all smoker cooked baby. We ordered the Big Boy which features every meat they serve. Oh and also a 1/2 lb of sausage on the side. Yum!!! Order the truffle Mac n cheese. It will change your life!! Almost as good as my mom's (don't tell her I said that). The cornbread was a little bland but add some honey to it and it helps. That's the only thing we didn't like. The entire time we were eating there was a line of people coming in to pick up takeout. So eat in or take out. You can't lose. Now I'm going home to take a nap.
(5)
Ana G.

Delicious! Tiny place inside, but we came on an afternoon when it was not busy. Loved everything about this place! The menu covers were old record sleeves, there were cookbooks on the tables and old recipe cards plastered on the bathroom walls. Kitschy but kool. And the food was great. I had the brisket, truffle Mac and cheese and a sassafras float. Other people in my party had the ribs, and we tried the variety of bbq sauces on the table. I want to be there right now! I'm smiling just thinking about it :)
(4)
August B.

You know I went here a few months back and thought it was terrible. I had the brisket (I always have brisket) and felt that the after taste was rather pungent...so much so that I wrote this place off. (My mouth wanted me to stop but I couldn't because I paid good money, it was like punishing myself with meat, each bite adding to the acridity of the previous) Considering I live in the area, and the area lacks places that can pass a health code inspection, I gave it another try. Again brisket, this time with chicken. Let me say, wow, so much better, like the 4 star rating is justified. Actually I came back the next day and had only a pound of brisket. The one knock is the price but that is most likely a reflection of the cost of brisket, more generally it's rise in popularity the last few years. Then again, it is so much food that it could easily be two meals if not three.
(4)
Keith H.

In 2013, I took a BBQ class here - and I was impressed. In 2014, the health department shut it down for finding rat dropping in the kitchen 2015 - rats or back to quality? I am confident that this place is back to snuff, but I did not find the BBQ to be anything memorable nor give you sufficient amount of food for what you are paying. The class I took was a whole lot of yammering on and on about BBQ. I'm just not a big fan, but it's good. It really is good. Just not good enough.
(3)
Tim S.

We went to rub based on the rave reviews and recommendations. The staff were friendly and even showed us the smoker where they cook all the meat. We ordered the Brisket and a half rack of ribs. When our order arrived in a timely fashion we found the meat to be too greasy. The food was so filling, due to the high fat content and grease, that we were not able to come close to finishing the meal. Shortly afterwards, when we were leaving, our son puked up his entire meal. We also experienced nausea shortly afterwards, which was remedied by a few antacids. There are a lot of great reviews and they must be doing something right but our experience was not all that pleasant.
(2)
Bob R.

This was an amazing experience. We've been in Chicago for many years - we left a couple of times but always came back. We spent two years in Texas (Houston area) from 2004-2006 and learned that, what know here are barbecue in Chicago is not really barbecue. Barbecue is smoking meats. If done well, you don't need heavy sauces. Meat does not have to be so done that it falls off the bone. Barbecuing is a time consuming exercise of cooking with wood at low heat for many hours. The three hour class was outstanding. He showed us how to butcher the meat, how to make various kinds of rubs, and how to cook. He went over the construction of the smoker and how it worked. Really, it was more of a lecture with some people getting a chance to be hands on. But, no matter. We made Texas Brisket, Pulled Pork St Louis ribs, Pork Butt and then it was followed by this amazing cornbread and mac and cheese. Everything we had, and I mean everything, was outstanding. Of course, we got to each all of it. It is served to your table family style, one course at a time. Included with your ticket is the class, the food and soft drinks. You can BYOB, and many did. We plan to go back to the restaurant, soon, with some friends. We'd also like to repeat the class. Barbecue seems to be the new hot thing in Chicago, with several restaurants open now. Rub's has been around for a while - they preceded the emergence of the local fad. They are authentic and lots of fun. Go to the class. Even if you don't want to smoke meats, it's interesting to learn about it.
(5)
Lulu R.

Ok. I see you. Sliding into West Rogers Park with some delicious ass bbq and sneaky-like. I see you. We came here on a whim after hearing some chatter of a new BBQ house. We get there and were seated almost immediately and I take in the ambiance of the joint. Church pew style seating along the walls, heavily decorated (perhaps too much but I was not there to eat the walls) and a smokey scent in the air. Upon further investigation, I notice: A jar of FREE PICKLES! PICKLES! This place is plucking my pregnant heart strings and playing a beautiful tune! They drop off the menus that are classic record cardboard re-purposed into the menu. How cute. We decided on Ribs, Pulled Chicken, Pulled Pork, Brisket, Truffle Mac and Cheese, and cornbread. The Ribs weren't my favorite but I ate them. I felt like the meat was a little bland. The brisket was pretty awesome, nice smoke ring, beautiful outer layer, and flavorful. The pulled chicken was Juicy and tender, The pulled pork was my husbands favorite and was devoured. There were 3 different BBQ sauces to choose from and were really great. My favorite was the chipotle citrus. The truffled mac and cheese was great, perfect. I like that they used truffle to elevate the flavors and mac the cheese flavor more elevated. The Cornbread seemed a little weird on the menu when we read it : Custard in the cornbread? We almost didn't get it. We almost made a HUGE mistake by not getting it. That cornbread was by far the best thing I ate that week! The corn kernels in the corn bread was still prominent but not whole to give it a rustic texture and that custard plays so well with the bread, its gives it a textured mouth-feel and the taste was seriously on point. I highly suggest EVERYONE gets that cornbread. Hands down, the best cornbread I have ever eaten. I washed it all down with a sweet tea and lemonade "Arnold Palmer" which was divine.The portions are big so we got to take a great portion of all our food home. The service was great. Prices weren't outrageous and we both had great meals. I would most definitely come back here for a casual dinner out with anyone and everyone who appreciates some good eats.
(4)
Ericka A.

Our BYOB dinner group often jokes that we're going to eat ALL THE MEATS! We damn near did at Rub's. Our group of 6 split a few sides and entrÃ©es family style. Our fearless leader ordered up 1lb of Pulled Pork, 1lb of Pulled Chicken, 1lb of Sliced Brisket, and a Full Slab of 100% Hardwood Smoked Ribs. We also ate nearly ALL THE CARBS! Our sides consisted of the Truffled Mac N Cheese and the Custard-Filled Cornbread. ALL THE MEATS were incredibly tender. The chicken was moist beyond belief. The pulled pork wasn't the slightest bit dry and the ribs were both meaty and fatty, which is exactly how I like them. The best part is that the sauces are on the side, so you can chose the specific style of sauce you want to complement your meal. My top choices were Chipotle and St. Louis. The sides, while tasty, were not the best I've had. I'm guessing that a lot of the food is made in large batches. This isn't so much a problem with the meat, but it did mean that the cornbread and the mac were neither as fresh, nor as hot as they could have been. However, it did mean that our meal came out quickly. In some ways, that's a good thing. In some ways, it wasn't ideal. What we do know is made to order is the BBQ Skillet Cookie. Order it well before you want it or if you don't mind a wait. They make them one at a time and they are delicious! I was very hesitant to go with it because many restaurants have crappy skillet cookies that are often flavorless and undercooked. This was not an issue at Rub's. The cookie was slightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. There was flavor throughout and everything about it left me wanting ALL THE COOKIES! If you do it up like us, Rub's is about $20pp (including tax + tip). I'll definitely be back for ALL THE MEATS!
(4)
Ken O.

I've been to this smokehouse twice with friends which rave about this place. Cool, I always enjoy a great rib joint. This West Rogers Park restaurant is not actually easy to see. Upon entering, your senses of smell and visual takes over. The bbq scent smells so good, the dining decor is very rustic with the plank board walls, wooden tables (some tables are picnic tables), the hanging decorations and the bandanas with your silverware in. Each time, we were greeted right away and seated. The menus are inside of album covers. Service is great. To me.... the food is okay. The first time, I had the ribs and the second time, I had the pulled chicken. Again, the food is okay. I wouldn't go out of my way to travel up to WRP for BBQ.
(3)
Monique L.

The food is here is really good. The brisket is amazing, the cornbread w/custard is very different and delicious, and I've enjoyed everything I've ever ordered. The only reason I can't give this place a 5 is because I went there yesterday to pick up an order I placed and I was not even acknowledged when I walked to the counter. I informed the waitress that I was there to pick up an order and she said "ok". 40 minutes later (literally 40 minutes because I looked at my watch) I asked again about my order. I was then informed that my "order was ready a while ago". How was I supposed to know this? I was standing there waiting for 40... minutes... Despite this nuisance, I would still go back. The food is delicious and the restaurant is BYOB.
(4)
David S.

The most bomb dig BBQ around! Smoked ribs, smoked brisket, smoked pulled pork! Not to mention a full orchestra of sauces. All phenomenal! They also have wet naps! I will be back for sure
(5)
Kat A.

We went here with friends when we were in Chicago for the holidays because it was in the area and had decent Yelp reviews. I'm not sure if we ate at the same restaurant that everyone is so happy about, because it really wasn't that fantastic. Or maybe I'm a barbecue snob...at best it was OK. High points: Brisket Pulled Pork Corn bread Root beer BYOB Meh points: The ribs...tough and underwhelming The beans...I didn't have any, but the bf said they were nothing to write home about The smoky chips...they were interesting and definitely smoky. This place was OK, but with so many over the moon, delicious barbecue places in Chicago I probably wouldn't go back.
(3)
Thomas C.

Hands down, among the best barbecue I've ever purchased, certainly in Chicagoland and rivals my all time favorite Oklahoma Joe's in Kansas City. This is exceptional food. The brisket was as it is supposed to be, rich, flavorful, nice smoke ring without being overpowering and MOIST. Wife and I shared a half pound platter which comes with chips and meat. If you want rolls or white bread they will bring them. Sauce is on the table but the meat does not need anything other than your mouth. Did try the mustard based sauce which has great flavor, but really, the meat is just fine on its own. Also had the rack of ribs, also come without sauce, as they should, and these steal the show. Just the right amount of pull on the meat (great ribs should NOT fall, clean off the bone), great smoke ring and flavor. For sides we had the mac and cheese and cornbread which comes with custard in the middle and a single serving is plenty for four. The family size portion of mac and cheese was just decadent. A hidden bonus is that this place is byob, I did not know, but could have solved the situation with a trip across the street (liquor store), but if you want a real treat, try the home brewed Root Beer. If you like Root Beer, or really even if you don't, you will love their concoction. What an incredibly nice surprise where you would not expect it (Rogers Park). We will definitely be back and with friends.
(5)
July H.

Delicious plates of meat and homemade root bear at a decent price. The homemade pickles and variety of sauces compliment every meal. And I can't complain about the service.
(5)
Mary Ann C.

Great first impression before even entering.....The amazing scent of barbecue was flowing through the air outside! Yum! Super friendly staff on our lunch visit today. They seemed to genuinely be concerned about our enjoyment of the meal and our overall experience. The decor was adorable and fun. Lots of creative touches. Old recipe cards as wallpaper in the bathroom?! Super cute. I sampled the brisket, ribs, mac and cheese, and cornbread. Wow! Delicious and expertly executed. Really, top of the line food here. I also liked the pickles on the table. Tasty. Plus, the food arrived fast! This was an added treat with two hungry kids on a cold Saturday! This place is great!
(5)
Hannah C.

Really more like 3.5 stars, but bumped it to 4 because of the great service. They have a small amount of table seating and appear to do a lot of takeout. The meats were quite good - I was especially impressed by how flavorful the pulled chicken was. They provide a variety of interesting sauces for you to mix and match (I highly recommend combining them), but the meat by itself had a great smoky flavor! The truffle Mac and cheese was phenomenal. The brisket was a bit fatty for me, but everyone I went with walked away feel good (and stuffed).
(4)
sara r.

We were there for father's day today. I didn't get our servers name but frankly I don't think she even bothered to tell us. Our receipt was under Jared and I know that's not her name. She had shoulder length brunette hair that was braided. She was so rude it would take me forever to list them all. When we tried to order something to go she said I'm too busy you'll have to wait with an attitude. The food was okay but honestly I think she ruined the whole experience. We are foodies who are loyal to our restaurants. However, I will never send anyone I know there and tell everyone not to waste their time. By far WORST service I've ever had!
(1)
patrick h.

It's the real thing and they actually care about the sides too!
(5)
Jeff D.

This place is great and always consistent. I've been ordering take out for over a year and haven't had a bad meal. The ribs are always tender. The brisket is always plentiful. The pulled pork is solid but the truffle mac and cheese is money!! My favorite sauce is the Chipotle one hands down!!
(5)
Beau C.

Rub used to be our go-to place for a meal when we didn't feel like cooking. The food is still tasty, but they have raised their prices significantly. We can't really justify going there for ribs or to take friends out to dinner - even with it being byob. What put us over the edge is that when ordering a full pound of meat they only give you one bun - you have to pay for extra if you want more. And it seems a full pound of meat deserves more then one bun. After raising the prices and being cheap on something like the buns, I left feeling taking advantage of. Maybe they are upping their prices to pay for their new addition. We may still go there a couple of times a year, but that's it.
(2)
Jennifer M.

Awesome pulled pork! The food is homemade, they slow cook all their meats and the taste is phenomenal! Highly recommend it!
(5)
Jeff B.

Best bbq sauces I have had in a long time. Very tender brisket and tastey pulled pork.
(5)
Jeremy N.

This place definitely reminds me of a number of Texas smokehouses in all the right ways. Came here for a birthday dinner. This place is BYOB, so bring your favorite beer/cider to round out the experience. The restaurant is laden with picnic tables, mason jars, and rolls of paper towels- that definitely sets the expectation that you're going to eat, it's going to be messy, and you're going to enjoy every minute of it. Needless to say, my expectations were greatly exceeded. Had the sliced brisket and the smoked links. The brisket was smoky and tender, while the links had enough spice to make then interesting without reaching the realm of "so spicy I don't want another bite". I loved the taste of the smoked potato chips that came with my meal, even though I don't think they were homemade- still a nice complement to the meal. Three different barbecue sauce bottles were on the table, but I stuck with a tangy and sweet classic barbecue sauce that was spot on. There are a ton of sides and an all-brisket burger patty that piqued my interest last time, so I'll have to make a return visit soon. Definitely someone the best Texas barbecue I've had outside of Texas, and I hope this place is around for a while.
(5)
Jamie-Lynn W.

We LOVE Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse! I had driven by this place so many times and we finally decided to try it out. Immediately upon walking in and smelling the smokey essence of the cooking food we were in love. The portions are filling and each of the sauces is served on the side so you can taste each one. We tried the pulled pork, truffle macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread. All are delicious! We've been wanting to try the peach cobbler, but are so stuffed every time we eat there that we have no room for dessert!
(4)
Jeff K.

Rude condescending waitress ruined my meal. Next time you decide to treat customers like shit make sure the food is actually half as good as you proclaim. Will never go back.
(1)
Lisa R.

Honestly I'm not impressed with the pulled pork or brisket however the homemade sides are good. Most of the meat dishes tasted like liquid smoke. Needless to say we won't be back.
(3)
Matt H.

Yesterday, a bunch of us bought carryout from here for Sunday Funday. So nice to have a decent BBQ restaurant near us! Smoky and delicious. I ordered the Big Guys Meal for $18. That meal includes 1/4 pork, 1/4 brisket, 1/4 chicken with three rib bones. Lots of food for the money! Unfortunately, I did not care for some sides (smoky chips, the mac & cheese and the cornbread) but others at our table did. Mixed reviews on those. We will order from here again though! Perfect for a carnivore. xoxo
(4)
Heshan W.

Overall the BBQ here is average. Nothing special, and the portions are not that much either. Sauces are decent, not much a kick to their spices either. However, their burgers are actually quite good. That's what I would recommend.
(3)
Adam R.

My wife and I found this place through a Living Social offer for a BBQ class. I've been BBQing for 40 of my 47 years and was taught by my father, a man that spent his formative years living in Florida and being raised on great Southern barbecue. If there is one thing I know, it's ribs. Jared knows how to smoke them. He has a simple rub that really brings out the flavor of the meat. Maybe I like the ribs so much because in speaking to Jared during and after the class I found that we share the same philosophy about seasoning and smoking meat. Keep it Simple. Sauce is always offered but unnecessary and discouraged (at my table). I'll say what others said having had the spare ribs, pulled pork, brisket, meaty beans, truffled mac and cheese, and the custard cornbread. It was all excellent. Even the home made pickles were great. The place is great even though it's a little small. It's a little out of the way but my wife will be bringing home carry out on her way from work regularly from now on. We can hardly wait to go back. I always look at other's reviews prior to leaving my own. There were a few that claimed that there was nothing special and some that complained that they expect ribs to be covered in sauce. That isn't how barbecue is served at any road side stand in the south. If you want sauce you put it on yourself. If you want ribs that fall off the bone and are covered in sauce than you're looking for a place like The Gale Street Inn. But I have news for you; that isn't real barbecue. Those ribs were par boiled to speed up the process of making them tender and then slathered in sauce and thrown in a broiler to add a little char. A good smoked rib has some tug when you bite into it. That doesn't equate to being tough. Real barbecue doesn't turn to mush if you rubbed it between your fingers.
(5)
Chicago F.

Very accommodating for a huge take out order. Packaged nicely. Truffled mac and cheese kind of mustard-y. Huge variety of sauces made it fun.
(4)
Anna F.

Barbecue is alive and well in the Midwest. For those of you who crave something beyond the heavy, sweet, tomato based barbecue, this is the answer. With killer rubs and yummy vinegar/mustard based sauces, these folks are killing in West Rogers. The Meat: I spend a lot of time down south, so when I come home it's sort of a bittersweet return to the land of no-smokers. The concept of "low and slow" is beyond our range in our own kitchens or regular haunts in Chicago--or so it would seem (I can't speak for everyone). Rub's satiates my desire for that delicious, charred, smokey brisket. Or pulled pork. Or chicken. Or ribs. The Sides & Other Accoutrements: Their custard corn bread solves the ancient dilemma of how to make a moist, yet structured, corn bread that isn't over burdened with sugar or butter. And as for the meaty beans, well they are exactly that. If you didn't get enough of the meat while chowing down one of their ridiculously generous portions of ribs--there's more where that came from. In your beans. Best surprise ever. The slaw is solid, not super exotic with its contents or pandering to any specific foodie audience, which I appreciate. The "caviar" is alright, it's a good switch up from the heavy flavors on all of the other proteins at the table. The crumbles are a good, unpretentious finish. Go for it if you have any room left. Extra ice cream. It's very casual, BYOB, and rocks some solid choices on their limited (but well crafted) menu....beauty in simplicity, man. I would say it's great for kids and for large groups. Give it a try next time you've got a hungry crowd milling around the north side.
(4)
Tim H.

You can't overlook this spot. I am a huge fan of Jared's philosophy, no electricity, no gas, real barbecue. I was first introduced through Chicago's Best TV and even attended this years rib fest Chicago, where he was a featured pitmasters for Anthony Anderson's Eating America series on Food Network. I'm amazed every visit I make here. I'm a huge fan of his Texas caviar and his off the cuff creations. The best brewed tea I've ever experienced, super friendly staff and cozy, warm environment. I love the fact that they spin vinyl LPs and your menu is encased in a vintage album cover. I'm looking forward to attending his cooking class and a venture to his Wisconsin get away. He truly loves sharing his secrets, knowledge and experiences. He's always willing to show off his smoker too, just ask. Look for Jared/Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse at the upcoming Windy City BBQ Classic at Soldier Field on October 10th and 11th. #300threview
(5)
Brett H.

Got carryout from here. The food was really good. Only complaint is they forgot the kettle chips. Coleslaw was fresh and wasn't mushy and the bbq tasted the way BBQ should, with a delicious smokiness to it. Both had the big guys meals. Will order from again!
(4)
Michael S.

Wow. If you know and love quality BBQ then this is a must. Taking the best from Texas, Memphis, and the Carolinas. Wow. Wow.
(5)
Sarah Y.

We took a 3 hour BBQ class with the smoke master in the winter, and it was so educational, yummy, and fun! I would recommend the classes here to anyone who loves to eat, cook, discover new cooking techniques, or just looking for a unique activity. The 3 hr BBQ class includes a full dinner of ribs, pulled pork, brisket, mac/cheese, and custard cornbread, which is all made during the class! It's BYOB, and a staff member will keep your beers cold until you're ready to drink. After class, you're sent home with 3 different BBQ sauces to try at home!
(5)
Bill C.

New location is great. Comfortable seating and excellent (and fast!) service. Lots of street parking. Compared to some of Chicago's better known BBQ spots, Brisket, Ribs, and Pork are among the very best. Sides are also excellent, with the cornbread and "Texas Caviar" my favorites.
(5)
Thomas H.

Friendliest BBQ place in Chicago. The atmosphere is down home and you are treated like a VIP guest. I usually get the pulled pork because it is excellent - moist and flavorfull. You can even pretend like this is healthy eating by getting the pulled pork salad which comes on a spring mix type salad. The sides are awesome, but be careful, you get a lot of food for your dollar so you may not need a side. The menu changes frequently so there is always something new to try. It is awesome to go to a restaurant where the owner is the chef and is passionate about what he is doing. Another hidden treasure in Rogers Park. Take a walk in Indian Boundary Park afterwards - you may even see some zoo animals. This park is another hidden treasure in Rogers Park.
(4)
Russell B.

The ribs and brisket are amazing. All of the sauces are good. There was one that tasted almost like a strawberry vinaigrette that was unlike any BBQ sauce I have ever had. The custard corn bread was OK. I wouldn't order it again.
(5)
Jim K.

The dry run chicken is tender and juicy. Loved the truffle mac n cheese and the peach cobbler with ice cream is an awesome finish to a great meal. Staff is very friendly.
(5)
Jessica S.

This place is DA BOMB!!! I always order the pulled chicken panini w apple chutney and it never seizes to fail my tummy!!! The apple crisp dessert and vanilla bean ice cream is what has me hooked on this place!!!
(5)
K M.

We had the groupon for a class. It was awesome! Food was delcious! Great service! Great bbq. BYOB!! Just realize your coat/purse will smell like smoke a few days before you go, and you will leave beyond stuffed!
(4)
Dave S.

I love this place! I've had the 1/2 pound BBQ chicken, the custard filled cornbread, and the BBQ tacos and I love all of them. For $7, you can't go wrong with the BBQ chicken sandwich. It's massive and the bun is nice and soft and tasty. I like the fact that they play good music in this place and they put together takeout quickly. I like most of the servers too, except for one, who acts a bit smug. Great place though, wish they stayed open later.
(4)
Chimmeree G.

Awesome Value People!! The sauces are original and the bbq is always fresh and tasty. The service is eager to please and friendly. I have recommended this place over and over again.
(5)
Michael S.

We tried almost everything...ribs, chicken, pork, brisket, sausage. Not to mention the beans and the mac. I'm originally from Texas, and I have had some amazing beef brisket. That said, the brisket was ok. Good in flavor, but very fatty and not tender. The chicken was good and the pork was the best. The pulled pork is very good. The sauces were pretty good, but an unusual approach for a place called Rub. The sides were good, but nothing over the top. I would probably get the pork again.
(3)
Kim D.

Bahhh I really wanted to love you. I really did. But I cannot. The good: pulled pork sandwich. Get it. BBQ sauce - good. The bad: everything else. Basically everything else was missing a hint of sweetness; sugar. I got a side of their beans. It was good, alot of meat and a lot of spicy, but still tasted like it was missing something aka a pinch of sweetness. Same thing goes for their cornbread. I'm thinking "hey custard filled cornbread?! holy mackerel that sounds like a tasty dessert." But no. Personally I am used to sweet cornbread. That's how i've always had it and that's how I like it. I'm not saying it tasted horrible but it was not what i expected so it felt like a letdown. No sweetness to it whatsoever. Also the chips that came with the sandwich were a tad bit stale. Cmon now if ur gonna get something right at least let it be the chips! Probably will not return, unfortunately.
(2)
Jeff G.

as my wife said, the meat (brisket and chicken that we ate) was good enough you don't even need to put bbq sauce on it. also liked the pulled pork panini where they put some cooked apple on it or something. very fall, very seasonal we'll be back
(4)
Carolynne M.

Rub-a-Dub-Dub! Three meats in a tub! (well, actually it was more like an aluminum tray, but you know, rhyming and all...) The pulled pork! The brisket! The St Louis style ribs! All of them gone in less than three! (minutes) Yeah, Andy got the ribs and i got the 1/2 n 1/2 which was half pork, half brisket. He also got the meaty beans as a side, and I got the "spiral staircase". The meaty beans were awesome! Sort of like a chili with a thick consistency. The mac & cheese (or "spiral staircase") was heavy and dense, but I think everyone has their own opinion of what "perfect" mac and cheese should be, and this was just OK to me. (For the record I like it to have a very heavy cheese sauce, almost like a bechemel) The pulled pork and the brisket were almost god-like they were done so well. I only had a small taste of the ribs and they were OK, but not as good as my two meats. There are sauces, and I tried them all. I did not care so much for the citrus one, but really like the jalapeno. It's true, you dont need sauce with the meat here, but it does add a bit of extra dimensional flavour which is nice. Small space, but cozy, and they offer take out an delivery in addition to eating in.
(4)
Martin V.

Best. BBQ. I have had the pulled pork, pulled chicken, brisket, ribs, coleslaw, and corn bread. I've only picked up. Can't speak to delivery. The BBQ brings me to a whole different place of wonderful. You really don't need the sauce. The sauce is amazing. All of it. So is the BBQ. All on its own. Have I mentioned that the BBQ is awesome? It is. Coleslaw has a tang to it that I really like. Might not be for everyone. I did not care for the cornbread. Just my personal taste. I can easily see how some might love it. I'd prefer a more traditional cornbread. That's just me. Go to here for foodstuffs. Go now.
(5)
Oscar F.

I've been once to eat in and once for carryout. Really friendly, helpful staff. Meats are top notch, as are the meaty beans. Cornbread was meh, unfortunately. Mac and cheese has been hit or miss on our two trips. Really good place to bring some beers and hang out with friends, or to bring some friends and hang out with beers.
(4)
Bonnie L.

I stumbled upon Rub on my way to run an errand at Red Door Shelter which is located across the street. I am so glad that I did, as I live right in the area and didnt even know that they were there. So I must preface this review first by saying that I am a vegetarian. I cannot vouch for any of the meat products. What I did have was the Mac and Cheese and the Custard Cornbread. I have read some of the other less than glowing reviews here on those two items in particular and I must say that I cannot agree less. I found the Mac and Cheese to be quite tasty, but just not as creamy as I would have liked. The Corn Bread was a different twist than I have had before with the custard and cruncy corn mixed in. I found it to be delicious and both portions were HUGE. Lastly, the owner was on site and very nice and helpful. I am so glad that I found a new place in the area. I would go back for sure.
(4)
Matt B.

Went here after a round of golf at Robert A Black course. Had the brisket burger and was very happy with it. If you like Smoque you'll like this place too. BYOB is an added plus. Definitely worth the drive.
(5)
Peter O.

4.3! Delicious, fresh-no-additives food of completely unique flavors and recipes, housed in a charmingly phony "rib shack" store front which is almost comically tiny. Their success undoubtedly will see them moving soon to larger quarters. BYOB. Every food item is custom made to their own recipes, the sauces and rubs and sausage (all the meat dishes I've tried are very, very heavy on the sage), their mild custard-filled cornbread and the extremely Meaty Beans, their macaroni and super rich, tangy multi-cheese Spiral Staircase of Cheese, and the Makeita Burger, a Rub BBQ Burger PLUS pulled pork, yellow cheese, kettle potato chips, and coleslaw, all piled on a bakery fresh egg bun. Wow. . wow. . .wow. It's delicious and enormous. Ask about it. At least twice a week I eat the Makeita Burger and the Meaty Beans and/or the Spiral Staircase of Cheese and a lot of ice tea from the all-you-can-drink, self-serve fountain. The Apple Crisp is better than the Peach Cobbler; both are very sweet and topped with especially yummy vanilla bean flecked vanilla ice cream. The Finger Lick'n Texas Sheet Cake is, sadly, ordinary. Don't expect coffee. They haven't quite figured out how to keep it in stock, though it's on the menu and the desserts demand it. Absolutely fantastic soundtrack music! Authentic, electric guitar-heavy blues by the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy, plus the Allman Brothers, Eric Clapton and Cream, Led Zeppelin, and the Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood. Come for the tasty food and be awed by the recorded, legendary musical talents. It's an owner/operator family shop of Mrs. Amanda, Mr. Jared, and Amanda's sister Melissa, who will chat with you just enough, remember your name and some personal details, and nearly make you feel like family. While these folks are not trying to please either BBQ purists or Chili's denizens, they certainly do please me and I hope they make you happy, too. Best as always, Peter O.
(4)
Amanda S.

My boyfriend and I are still recovering from a LONG day at the beach yesterday and decided to order in. I drive by Rub BBW everyday on my way to work and we've discussed trying it for weeks now. Well, today was the day. A huge test is if a restaurants food can survive take-home. T. ordered the pulled pork and I the Rub Panini. T. was a bit surprised that the pulled pork sandwich didn't have sauce on it quite yet, but once he selected from the two sauces provided with our take out he was pleased. The meat was juicy and tender, full of flavor. My panini was enough for lunch and dinner along with what appeared to be half a bag of chips. We also ordered a side of the custard cornbread. I like some of the other reviewers found that something was missing. There was little sweetness and had hoped for a different flavor. When all was said and done, we would order from Rub BBQ again.
(3)
S H.

The food just keeps better and better at Rub. The macaroni and cheese is AMAZING. I've only had the bbq pork sandwich, which is is so good I've not needed to try anything else. My husband tried the ribs and brisket, and he says the pulled pork is the best. He's a big fan of the meaty beans, which I also think are very good but I'm not a big bean person. Next I'd like to try the pulled chicken. I appreciate the sauces because I can't handle super spicy, and there are some good flavorful but not overpowering options. It is so great to have more dining options in Rogers Park... finally!
(4)
J M.

27.12 was a whole' llota nothing in food for 2. The food was mediocre and they fried my hamburger which they did not even put lettuce, tomato or onions even after I requested. And instead of fries they offer soggy chips and a scoop of 'slaw. Angus burger cost them probably 1.50 and the chips .50 cents. Wasn't worth it, and won't be back.
(2)
Lynn B.

Really cute place with excellent service. Ribs, pulled pork and brisket divine. Excellent sauces. Chicken dry and flavorless. Why white meat, rather than chicken parts, which take to smoke far better? Mac and cheese meh. Didn't care for the coleslaw. Texas sheet cake solid. Wish they served alcohol.
(3)
Stephanie W.

I really wanted to like this place, as it would be great to have good BBQ in Rogers Park. However, the brisket and ribs I tried seem to have no seasoning, other than salt and pepper. Also, the ribs were very porky, and didn't taste like they were smoked, at all. We also tried the custard-filled cornbread. It seemed excessive, and didn't have a lot of heart.
(1)
Justin R.

I wish we lived closer! The ribs were great, the mac and cheese was great, and the custard-filled cornbread was awesome. The kids had the pulled pork and pulled chicken sandwiches, which they loved. Make sure you get the Angus BBQ burger, it is amazing, even after a 25 minute drive home with the food.
(5)
Mark S.

The new location has lost its charm. It has gone from family BBQ restaurant to hipster sheek. However, you should still make the effort to come this far north for BBQ. The only miss on the menu is the cornbread. The custard filing is just wired. However, its BBQ, so the brisket and the pork were fantastic.
(4)
Just Me E.

Great potential and a very welcome addition to the West Rogers dining scene, but they need to work out some kinks. When we walked in, there was only one of about 8 tables taken. This is a small storefront place with the counter toward the back of the store, so the setting is "intimate". Within 1 minute of our arrival, they got slammed with customers and mass confusion set in. The counter person (owner, I assume?) never offered any guidance on how he wanted to operate and just stayed behind the counter. People didn't know if they were to order cafeteria style, or if there was table service. Finally, we heard one of the patrons ask about this, and the counter person/owner says something about it being a combination of both. (read: your guess is as good as mine.) We finally placed our order and within 2 minutes our food was served. That's good timing, but the ribs were barely lukewarm and somewhat tough. Ribs are like pizza and Italian beef, that is, everyone favors a certain style. I prefer baby backs to spare, wet to dry, and tender to chewy. Their sauces saved an otherwise barely average rib meal. Their house sauce is this wonderful fruity, smoky concoction infused with just the right amount of heat. The meaty beans, a $3 upcharge, were kind of bland, but were also saved by the sauce. Other notables: we had to remind the order taker about our drinks, the tables were kind of dirty, and I found the prices on the high side. I know they've been open only a few weeks, and I don't mean to be harsh. I want them to succeed, but they need to clean up their act, literally and figuratively.
(2)
Kevin D.

Great food. The smoke on the BBQ was fine. My favorite was the pulled pork, Damn good. Homemade sauces rocked!!! BYOB. Nice owners who have roots in the neighborhood. Highly recommended. 5 stars.
(5)
Alexander C.

Smoque, Lillie's Q, Pork Shoppe, Uncle John's, Rub BBQ... one doesn't fit, guess which one? I lived in Memphis and understand good dry rub ribs, this is not it. Smoque is the gold standard for brisket, this was not even smoked brisket and belongs in a Jewish deli and not passed off as real bbq. Horrible. I know they just opened, but this place is just cracked up. Get in your car or take a cab and just go somewhere else. Even if you live in Edgewater/Andersonville pass this up!
(1)
Stephen F.

Great neighborhood BBQ. I got the ribs and pulled pork, the rub on the ribs was very tasty. The sauces they had for lathering up my pulled pork was also very tasty.
(5)
Ross N.

Stopped in last week on a whim and quick search in the hood on the phone. Met Jared (owner) and proceeded to gorge myself on a great brisket sandwich with a choice of three sauces--I preferred the Spicy just a bit over the Sweet n Smoky. After chatting him up post sandwich I kept the lightbulb on that having a bbq order for the Bears/Pack game might be a good idea. Turns out they were able to accommodate a late Saturday afternoon request for some brisket, pulled pork, couple slabs of ribs and some sides. His wife Amanda was a pleasure to deal with and made it painless. Picked up Sunday close to noon and worked out a little billing discrepancy (I didn't want to cheat the guy, come on!) and headed back. So, review: brisket and pulled pork were great. I've had better brisket (felt like original sandwich was better) at a couple other locations but this was STILL GOOD. Pulled pork was the biggest hit and didn't last long. Wasn't a huge fan of the ribs which were rubbed and smoked and a little dry but also sat out for awhile and not his fault. I think I'm more of a wet, saucy ribs guy. The cornbread is layered with what I think is a creamed corn spread in the middle and was a nice departure from the norm. Bbq beans were very different and had an aromatic, cardamom-like taste which I'm not particularly that high on but not opposed to new tastes. Prob wouldn't get those again. I'll be back when I skate through the north side. Good eats.
(4)
Trey A.

Solid place. Huge portions, multiple choices on sauces, and an extremely friendly atmosphere. Brought our baby girl there for the first time (4 days old) as we were coming home from the doc. office. This was something that popped up on yelp and what a BBQ delight! Great neighborhood feel, little competition and award winning customer service. Ordered the pull pork, mac and cheese and devoured the pulled pork. M&C had the truffle oil (which I don't enjoy), but understand that most do...Melissa (owner's sister) was incredibly polite and offered to make an additional batch at no charge w/out the oil. I said no thanks as I should be watching my calorie intake anyhow, but ultra unexpected and nice! Explained the owner's story and yeah, we are now just huge supporters. We heart the family owned establishments and love the fact they are huge in supporting the local community. Congrats, keep doing what you're doing and the rest will figure itself out! Friendliness is contagious. Will definitely keep coming back.
(4)
Sandy A.

I rarely write a review after only one try--and rarer still never having actually visited it, but just ordered out for delivery. That is why I withheld a star from this review--should I actually get to visit Rub and sit down to eat, and should that food delight me as much as the food Rub brought to my door tonight, five stars may be too few. (And the 5K-character limit here is criminally short) I am a near-obsessive BBQ freak. (Odd for a kid born & raised Jewish in Brooklyn, eh)? One thing I learned after living in Chicago for 34 years: Chicago-style ribs are not "BBQ." Sorry, all you N. Side fall-off-the-bone baby back fans, but them's the facts. Ribs baked in the oven and finished on the grill (or vice versa), swimming in sweet tomato-ey sauce, are not "barbecued." I travel extensively throughout the mid-South (NC, SC, VA, WV, AR, TN--Memphis, Nashville & Knoxville, Austin, TX, KY) and the parts of the lower Midwest that are Southern-at-heart: s. central & s.w. IL, MO, OK, and KS. I feel the ideal BBQ ribs possess these essential qualities: slow and low indirect cooking on a smoky wood fire; pink "smoke ring" when cut; plenty of meat; profound flavor even w/o a drop of sauce or a grain of rub showing; and a certain resiliency when you bite into them--they want to bite back, and not give up the bone without a token fight. And, IMHO, the only cut that brings the goods in that regard is the spare, or St. Louis rib. To say that Rub's ribs do not disappoint is like saying that Goose Island on draft tastes decent, or that Buddy Guy's a good picker. I have no idea where the owners' geo-culinary allegiance lies (though I suspect the prominent presence of smoked brisket--my next order--and Texas sheet cake may provide a clue). Friends, I've "been to the mountain:" Iron Works in Austin, TX, the Rendezvous and Neely's in Memphis, Jack's in Nashville, a jillion little roadside gems (a tin-smoker-out-back of a corner of a New Madrid, MO gas station and one ironically located kitty-corner from the Hillel House in Iowa City), 17th St.,, Sparta, IL's "South Side," Chicago Q, Smoque, Hecky's, the late lamented Edith's, Merle's. and myriad branches of Famous Dave's, Smokey Bones & Leon's. Rub can hold its succulent head up high. I ordered the full slab. Pleasant surprise--a good two bucks (easily) cheaper than anywhere else, even down South (except for the aforementioned New Madrid hole-in-the-wall). Next, instead of arriving drowned in sauce and cheap white bread (or having been dragged through a sandbox of raw dry rub), they were presented, cut apart perfectly, in two foil packs--one for each portion--bearing a fine layer of the lovely red-brown "bark" that only true 'cue technique can bring, caramelizing the dry rub until its components are visually indistinguishable and its flavor deep and harmonious. I knew I was in for a treat when the server on the phone asked me what kind of sauce I preferred or "would I like them all?" My order, promised in 40-50 minutes, arrived in 20, piping hot. When I opened the little cups of three sauces (one plain, one marked "C" and one "S") all I could say was, "wow, wower, wowest." I'm partial to spicy yet smoky & vinegary, so "S" (smoked jalapeno) it was. (Two hours later, my son having devoured the other half slab, I'm tempted to go back to the fridge with a demitasse spoon just for the sauce). Taste and texture? Spot-on in all regards. The meat fought me back in a gentle, playful tug-of-war and then let me win. The smoke permeated the meat, but there was no doubt I was eating what had rather recently been a pig, not a burning back porch. Unlike at so many other takeout places in Chicago, Rub's ribs each possessed a perfect amount of beautifully-cooked meat--no lumps of fat, no knots of burnt sauce or overcooked flesh. It is particularly telling that it took me a good 15-20 minutes to polish off six ribs--not because they were hard to gnaw off the bone but because they were so meaty and the sauce was so perfect that it would have been a sin not to savor each bite. Starch, you ask? No white bread--potato chips. Didn't try 'em, because I wanted to save room for the small but intense well-balanced slaw--and the "single" side order of truffled mac & cheese. I know for two and a half bucks I wasn't gonna get chunks of the black jewels of the Perigord or the white gems of Alba, but Rub must use a darned good truffle oil because my mac & cheese was nearly as redolent as that served at pricey steakhouses (if not quite as much as the truffle-butter at Paris Club). And that "single order?" A clamshell box chock full of the stuff. Two tablespoons were divine--and filling. The cheese? Tasted like gruyere, fontina, and Parm-Reg. There was ample evidence of actual cheese, not goo dissolved in bechamel. No room for salad or dessert. Next time...and there WILL be a next time.
(4)
Kate W.

So I've finally had a chance to try their brisket and mac and cheese. I really liked both. The brisket was juicy and made a delicious sandwich. It was also tender and well seasoned. I almost didn't want to put the BBQ sauce on it because the flavor of the meat was so good by itself. I love their dark sauce though, so a bit was added. The mac and cheese was also good. While others have noted that it was was dry and/or oily I found it to be cheesy and I quite liked it. I was a little disappointed in the price though. A side order of it is $3 which seems a bit much given the portion. Additionally, since I first went the size of the bun for sandwiches has changed. It went from being more like a longer roll to a typical hamburger bun. This also means a smaller sandwich, for the same price. I'm still a fan of their food and will most definitely continue going there though. Their brisket and pulled pork is really tasty.
(4)
pellet s.

4.5 stars. It gets a little better every time, and I expect they'll be at 5 stars very soon. Super cute place, super nice folks. I don't understand folks ragging on the prices, you don't get brisket anywhere in town for 7.99. It's certainly not a Texas tasting brisket, but it's damn tasty, especially w/ their spicier BBQ sauce, which tastes more like traditional brisket rub. I also enjoyed the ribs w/ their delicious complex rub and toothsomeness, the second time eating them they had a terrific smokiness. The sides are very reasonably priced and generous for the small orders at 2.99. The spiral staircase maybe a cheesy name, but the smoked gouda sauce and rotini really deliver the joy. The meaty beans, like the brisket, are also unlike their counterparts at other places. Not quite chile con carne, not quite ranchero beans, not quite baked beans, more like all of them mixed together w/ a liberal dose of sage and sage sausage. Personally I could do w/o so much sage, but couldn't stop eating them nonetheless. The custard corn bread is spectacular when warm. A layer of perfect creamy custard w/ corn niblets sandwiched between perfect cornbread. Indeed, perfect, but I wish I hadn't had to wait to get home to heat it up. Then again, at least I had something to eat once I got home since I had scarfed everything else down while still driving in the car. At 2 bucks this is a steal, get it now before they figure out the food costs of all that cream :D ....AND it's good for breakfast too (esp w/ bacon), since they give you enough for two servings. You have to get this stuff. As for the BBQ sauces, the darker one wins hands down, a little sweet, smoky and spicy, good seasoning w/ notes of cumin and coriander.
(4)
Adam F.

Pulled Pork was fantastic, as was the cornbread, sauces and Mac and Cheese (with truffle oil, you can get it without by request- which the owners suggested for our young child). The brisket was ok. Big Portions, small prices, small dinning area and friendly owners.
(4)
S R.

got the "big guy's meal" (sampler) recently on my first visit here - pork, chicken and brisket were good; ribs were surprisingly mediocre in terms of flavor; truffled mac'n'cheese was also mediocre in terms of flavor; their homemade root beer also tasted flat, i am not a root beer drinker normally so maybe it's supposed to taste that way but i doubt it. the smoked potato chips were kind of weird but i liked them. i will definitely come back here but i won't get the sampler again (too much food for one person anyway) and i will probably just get the brisket and be completely happy.
(3)
Aesha W.

I'm always a little skeptical of a new place that has a bunch of five star reviews by people who've only reviewed one or two places. I heard about the place from a Tasting Table email, and thought it might be interesting to try - well, more to the point, for my partner to try, as he loves his bbq ribs and I don't. We went today to give it a try; we learned that they were just in Red Eye yesterday, which I guess may account for what they said was their first weekend rush! I wasn't actually expecting to have anything to eat, because I don't eat a lot red meat or dark meat chicken. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the pulled chicken was chicken breast, as I was expecting it to be dark meat chicken. My partner ordered a half slab of ribs, and the custard filled cornbread. It was pretty good; I did find some kind of fatty pieces of chicken, which I was surprised about and found a bit unappetizing. The ribs seemed to have some fattiness too, but not too bad. I really liked the house sauce, and the other was pretty good too - a little more full bodied and a tiny bit spicier. The dessert was a disappointment. I don't like cornbread, so I wasn't expecting to like it, but the custard wasn't very sweet either. My partner, who of course likes cornbread since he ordered it, said he probably wouldn't order it again. We didn't try the sheet cake - chocoholics, rejoice! - and their cobbler will be available shortly. I do think I'll try the mac & cheese if we go back again, as I love love love macaroni and cheese. I will agree with the other reviewer who thought it seemed a bit high priced... the sandwich was $7, which came with a small cup of coleslaw. I don't like coleslaw myself, but others thought it wasn't bad. There are some kinks to be worked out - they don't have fountain pop yet so they were serving tap and bottled water, and coke & coke zero; and they seemed a bit disorganized. Also, as we were about to leave I heard someone talking to them about how they accept credit cards - something about using PayPal for it, and whatever it was sounded like I'd prefer to pay cash when I visit. But I don't think we're opposed to giving it another shot at some point to see how they put what they've learned from the soft opening into practice, and have some tasty barbeque.
(3)
Van D.

My girlfriend got me a living social certificate for the BBQ class for the two of us. The class is in the back kitchen area with multiple tables for you to sit and eat. There were about 10-15 people in our class. Food wise they started us with a great dip for our chips (beans, cilantro, onions, tomatoes). They taught us how to make brisket, pulled pork, and ribs. You get to sample each of those products. They also taught you how to make cornbread with a heavy cream filling. Yes, I said heavy cream filling. It did not seem like a ton of food initially but we were definitely full at the end of the class. The owner, Jerod, teaches the class and one of the other chefs helps with serving you. Jerod does an outstanding job of teaching and explaining what is going on. He and his staff are incredibly friendly and open. Even if you are not a huge BBQ fan, they really get you excited about what they are doing. If anyone has even the slightest interest in seeing how BBQ is smoked, this class is a no brainer. You won't find a friendlier or more passionate person than Jerod. We had a wonderful time. FYI: Its also BYOB and you will smell like smoke afterwards
(5)
Paul F.

My wife and I checked out the place today. I had been wanting to introduce her to Smoque for some time, but once we saw this place was open, it's been on our list. We live in the RoPa and love to support local businesses. We started out with the St. Louis style ribs, custard cornbread, and brisket. All of it was great - there are two types of homemade sauces you can ask for: regular and citrus chipotle. While both are good, the latter is the best. After we finished, we thought we'd try the Pulled Pork sandwich and beans. I know, I know.... three entrees might be a bit over the top, but I tell you.... if we could have taken a nap there after the pulled pork, we would have ordered the chicken and macaroni too. They can do no wrong. The owner is very personable, and he even took us in the back to show us the smoker. Not sure if it was 15 feet away from the door, or not, though :) I'm just glad that I work outside of what will be the delivery area for this place, or I'd be in trouble. They started out catering, and now I'm thinking of having my birthday party there now. Can't wait to go back.
(4)
David D.

Absolutely the best BBQ on the city. Jared knows how to smoke meat. The brisket is soo tender and the ribs are amazing. Have the custard cornbread and truffle mc and cheese. Take the class. It is worth waiting for.
(5)
Russell K.

Best barbeque I've ever had. Love the sides, too.
(5)
Curt L.

Had a wonderful time at the BBQ 101 class. Well thought-out, fun experience featuring terrific food and expert BBQ knowhow. Jared and his team were enthusiastic, funny, helpful, and shared lots of practical knowledge for bbq beginners. Having just come from a Texas BBQ crawl during a week in Austin, I can say that Jared is playing in the big leagues of bbq along with Kreutz, Smitty's, Franklin, Louis Mueller's, City Market and the other iconic Texas pit bbq joints. Brisket, pulled pork, ribs, were all superb with that nice smoke taste yet moist and tender. Gotta go back and try the sausage. The mac and cheese and cornbread were fabulous sides. Rub's is the real deal!
(5)
Chika S.

Dine in experience is fabulous too... Really fun and creative antique/retro decor. We do feel it is a little pricy but love it nonetheless. Cornbread is to die for, especially right out of the oven.
(5)
Elizabeth S.

When I have time to get to this place it's like going on vacation. Seriously the setting the cutest ever and the food is even better. Uuuugh the pickles and cole slaw pulled pork and if ur jaws can still move or if you awake from your food coma; shovel in the apple pie thing. You might wet your pants a little. Ok I'm done you're dumb if you don't like this place 10/5
(5)
Justin C.

Best value in the city!!!!!! Amazing BBQ at great prices and its BYOB!!!!!! I haven't had anything that I haven't loved!!!! Great sweet tea and great ambiance! I recommend the big guys meal. You get a little of everything!
(5)
Allie P.

Delicious! The sides were my favorite part. Custard filled cornbread, caviar and truffle Mac and cheese really did me in. As for the meat...ribs were good and brisket yummy! Friendly service.
(4)
gale l.

They deserve a full 5 stars! Food = excellent. Service was attentive and detailed (totally remembered I asked for water no ice). The separate checks had to be calculated by hand, so there was a short delay there. I picked the 1/2 & 1/2 plate. There's an up charge for brisket. Brisket wasn't that smokey, but the pulled pork was. Both meats were so tender - I've had smoked brisket before, and this was easily the most tender chew. Not too-sweet homemade root beer and my friend had a divine chicken panini. I'm going to have a hard time picking one favorite item here - yep, I plan to make multiple visits. There is one bathroom and it's small. Slimmer wheelchairs could maybe fit to reach the bathroom door, but the space inside requires turning around, be advised. Location could be better for us, but a scenic Chicago drive might be exactly what we need to whet our appetites.
(5)
Jason R.

Not too many sauces to choose from. The smoked kettle chips are a bit weird, too much of a hardwood flavor for my taste. But the meat is fantastic. Also the truffled Mac & cheese and the 10" skillet cookie are excellent choices as well.
(5)
Todd W.

Ok so I stumbled on this place only because I saw a bunch of people outside waiting. They have outdoor seating which is ok if you ignore Western Ave traffic. I ordered chicken and brisket combo with potato chips and coleslaw. Moderately priced so I added baked beans and cornbread ( this cornbread is special;)They sent out all three sauces, but Do choose the spicey( homemade there). As a matter of fact, everything is cooked, made, baked there, yum. I ate there and still managed to bring home leftovers for an entire filling lunch the next day. Do not go at dinner time if you can help it; place is small. Go off peak hours.........ps. And they have delicious Root Beer.
(4)
Ellen R.

After attending the amazing bbq cooking class, I brought the family here for Father's Day. It was a long drive for us, almost an hour. The same server who waited on us for the cooking class waited on us yesterday. I was ready to share the great food with everyone. Our server was an angry, condescending person. We were met with rude remarks throughout the entire meal. She wasn't even interested enough to be subtle with her rudeness, it was very blatant. I met the owner at the cooking class and I would like to alert him that if this is a representation of his "front of house", then he should reconsider what kind of people are working for him. There were other people who brought us things, water, plates, etc., and they were lovely to us. Jared's food is very good, but I will not make the trip back there ever! After paying our tab of $115, she also gave us the wrong carry-out order. I know everyone has an "off" day, but it was insulting, at the very least. Boo to the worst server I have ever encountered.
(3)
C M.

Loved this place! I did the BBQ and it was awesome! Really interesting stuff and everything we ate was awesome (brisket, pork shoulder, ribs, corn bread, mac and cheese, even the black bean dip.) The owner is really knowledgeable and friendly. I will definitely be coming back!
(5)
Spencer H.

Delicious meal! Meat was tender and tasty. They have 3-4 delicious sauces that you can enhance your meal with. The pulled pork and brisket were both excellent. My buddy from Arkansas had a hankerin' for some good ole fashioned, home cooked BBQ and he said that this place made him feel right at home. Will be returning!
(5)
Jaime G.

Rub's serves some really good texas BBQ. nicely smoked, tender meat, and great taste. Especially love the pulled pork - really good Texas BBQ like. Would try again. Shout out to their goat cheese and jicama salad - also tastely. add some BBQ and it's a good deal.
(4)
Brendan S.

This place is an absolute joke. After reading some promising reviews, I show up at 8:45 with a neon OPEN sign in the window, only to be told by salty Jennifer, that they're closed. Moose out front didn't tell me that. Guess when absentee owners leave people that don't understand customer service, this is the outcome. Sad place. Won't last.
(1)
Daniel H.

This is a good little bbq place in the neighborhood. The BBQ is not amazing, but it's good and worth a local trip. I do like that they represent multiple regional styles. That said, each offering is not the "best-ever" example of each style, but it's good enough to get a sense of what it's all about and for return visits. Pulled pork with a vinegar-based sauce is the style from where I grew up, and in my experience that style (which is the least popular nationally) is the hardest to do well out side of the north-eastern South. Nevertheless, their vinegar sauce is decent and their pulled pork is tasty even if it's served in oddly long and large chunks/strands. All in all, it was probably the best attempt I've seen at this style outside of the region in which I grew up. The ribs are St. Louis cut and were probably the best items on the menu when I visited. They're smoked well and very tender. For those who complain that they're "dry," this is how dry rub ribs are supposed to be served: they come to the table without sauce and you add your own to your liking (that's why the sauces are on the table...). It's much better than the restaurant drowning them in an ocean of sauce before they hit the table. The brisket was probably my least favorite BBQ offering there, although it was by no means bad. However, I'm not from Texas and I've never had BBQ brisket before, so what they give you might very well be an accurate representation of what you'd get in Texas. It just didn't have a whole lot of flavor or texture on it's own and ended up being more of a vehicle for the sauce than anything else. I also had the already-in-the-yelp-spotlight truffle mac and cheese so I'll weigh in. It was good, I liked the truffle flavor, which gave it an elegant richness. However, it is not very cheesy at all and a bit on the dry side. That's no mistake as some people prefer it like that. Personally, I prefer a more cheesy type but I also enjoyed what they served. Let me put it this way, when we finished the meal, the mac and cheese was also gone. I didn't get the custard-cornbread (another intriguing concept), so that evaluation will have to be deferred until next time. The service was nice; basically they leave you alone without being neglectful. Can't complain about that.
(4)
A S.

Omg...this place... :)) We went to their BBQ 101 class and let me tell you everything was spot on. Matt and Laura, our crew for the night, were great! They were very knowledgeable, passionate, friendly, hands on and fun. The 3 hours flew by, in fact the only way I knew it was over was because I needed to get home to lay down I was so full. The BBQ is perfect. And they have great sides and sauces...bonus! I could go on and on about their BBQ. The brisket for instance was so juicy it was dripping when he picked it up. The pulled pork had the best bark and makes an awesome redneck taco. Delish! The ribs...omg...the ribs. Cliche ahead.... Just when I thought it couldn't get any better. Mind blown. They were great and personally I think that says a lot because ribs are tricky. Gotta get the cut right the time right and the perfect bite (not fall off the bone in one big meaty piece). Byob, simple, unpretentious, passionate, real deal, tiny, off the grid...perfect! Put it this way I pray (selfishly) that they are never discovered because that will be the end once everyone sees how good this place is. Although thankfully they're opening a new location Lincoln square, different name though. I can't wait! Well done;)
(5)
Marc G.

I went to a BYOB smoking class led by the owner and head pit-master, Jared Leonard. It was a fabulous experience. The food was to die for-- ribs, brisket, pulled pork, truffled mac and cheese, homemade pickles, yummy sauces. I swear, each thing was better than the next! Jared was a great entertainer and evidently very knowledgable about smoking meats. I regretted eating so much, but also regretted not eating more while I had the chance. A real catch 22. The service was great and I can't wait to go back! The place is good vibes for sure.
(5)
Joy R.

Fun neighborhood place to be. Pulled pork sandwich is wonderful and their cole slaw is the best I've ever had.
(4)
Michelle G.

Let's cut to the meat and potatoes. The food here is good NOT great! We walked in at 6:30 on a Thursday night and were seated right away. Service was very good. Didn't realize it's a BYOB. Here's the lowdown on what we ordered. Brisket - extremely fatty, good flavor but lacking something Truffle mac & cheese- not bad; truffle is definitely an acquired taste Baked beans - the only righteous item on the menu; loaded with flavor The entrees came with chips and tasteless, dry coleslaw. Do yourself a favor and head on over to Smoque instead. You won't regret it.
(3)
Rachel J.

I moved out of Roger's Park... Back down to the South Loop... And, OH! Custard cornbread, how I miss you! The couple that runs this place is adorable and super nice. They put a lot of thought into their menu and recipes, and I think it shows. Definitely the type of business I want to support. Good food + good people.
(5)
Melissa D.

This place has the best barbecue. The meat is cooked southern style and not Chicago style. Meaning it is smoked and served with the sauce on the side. If you like meat that is served drowning in sauce this is not the place for you. The menu is small which means to me that they do everything well here. I did the barbecue class a couple of months ago. It was a great experience. Jared the owner does the class. He covers how to smoke, season and cut the meat. He demonstrates the cornbread and mac n cheese recipes. The class is held in the room with the smoker which makes everyone hungry. Food is served throughout the class, and anything left is given to the students to take home. Recipes are sent to the students for all the food they serve. One note of caution: they cook an amount of food based on past experience, so once a menu item is gone that day there is no more. A friend who is a vegetarian came with me on a Saturday night, and we were counting on her being able to order one of their amazing baked potatoes. They were out and she had a salad instead. She was disappointed.
(5)
Julia J.

I love that Rub's is nearby and delivers. The smoke flavor really permeates every bit of food, including the chips, and it's a little much for my palate, though the husband loves it. I'm a fan of the sandwiches- particularly the chicken sandwich with giardiniera and the Rub Reubin. I have also really enjoyed their beans and pulled pork. I would skip the mac n cheese, only because I prefer my mac n cheese a little creamier, not as dry and not as much dry topping on it.
(3)
Jay H.

Very good pulled pork today! Nice crust on exterior, and tender but not mushy meat. I liked the variety of sauces, although I was not a fan of all of them. But the pork really does not need much (or even any) sauce. Light smokiness to meat, very well executed. Enthusiastic, friendly staff completed a great experience. Very family friendly.
(4)
Juan A.

Service is good and food comes out quick. Love how they make everything in house. Its definitely the real deal bbq. Tried the Brisket and ribs, I preferred the ribs.
(4)
Barbara N.

The stale vinegar odor got me first, before I even opened the Styrofoam container. We were hungry, so we continued. My first rib choice was dry as a bone. My significant other handed me his. It was only on the verge of dry as were all the others. The cole slaw was sugar with a crunch. The sauce was red sugar. The potato chips were tasteless. How long has it been since the owner diagnosed his flavor profile, we wondered. At $19\slab, it was a lousy meal.
(1)
Jon G.

Beat it [Beat it] Beat it [Beat it] Tenderize your beef & eat it Jerk on that chicken pull on that pork Handle your meatballs go grab a fork!
(5)
Becca V.

We found Rub's on a groupon for the cooking class that my fiance and I did. It was a BLAST - and we had the best discovery during that class ... Not only is their food INCREDIBLE, but they also cater!! Amanda did the catering for our wedding, and it was such an amazing experience! They were the talk of our 300 person event - the food was just as good as it is right from the kitchen. They also brought in everything - tables, chairs, dishes, BBQ sauces, meat stations, servers ... She was a full blown wedding planner! And it was such a cool event because of the unique food. We will be regulars at the restaurant and at any event these guys throw!
(5)
Heather C.

Living only a few blocks from here is amazing as I can have delicious BBQ whenever I want. My favorites are the chicken, brisket, baked potatoes, and the nachos. I give 4 stars instead of 5 for two reasons. One being that they aren't open very late, which hinders how often I can actually eat here which sucks. The second being that their sides are a bit underwhelming. Not a big fan of the chips and the coleslaw seems to depend on who made it that day. Love the pickles and the iced earl grey tea though!!!
(4)
Jason T.

This is definitely one of the best bbq joints in Chicago. Also one of the mist authentic. Everything is smoked, and they make it an art form. They also do a really fun BBQ class for 3 hours (which we did!) where you learn all the nuances of BBQ, and get a lot to eat! The brisket. Yes, the fucking brisket. Awesome and full of flavor. The ribs are dry rubbed and St. Louis style, with a ton of meaty flavor. Not the BS Chicago style ribs over-drenched in sauce. Truffle oil mac n' cheese was awesome! Pulled pork was outstanding! And they make a cornbread with an inner layer of creme. I mean, stop it! Also it's byob, and the people who run it are super nice and very passionate about what they do. Eat here.
(5)
Jim H.

I had take out twice from this place and both times I thought the food had no flavor and was dry. It just seems the hipness of the joint comes before the quality. After second time I said i would not go back, however seeing a lot of good reviews I might try again, but for now I am hesitant.
(1)
Tori M.

We attended the BBQ cooking class and had a blast! The instructor, who is also the owner, was really passionate about BBQ and really knew his stuff. The food wasn't Texas good but that's because its in Chicago. Its the best place I've been for BBQ on the north side that's for sure. The brisket was to die for! The class was a great deal for the money, we ate a ton and still had leftovers. Plus they send you home with some sauces and all of their recipes. Will definitely be back!!!
(5)
Moni K.

Very tasty. I had the brisket, mac and cheese, Texas caviar, custard filled corn bread and meaty smoked beans. For dessert I had the wood fired peach cobbler. Yes I know that is a lot of food but I did have lots of leftovers. The good stuff: Brisket excellent Texas Caviar awesome Meaty smoked beans very yummy The not so good stuff: the corn bread....the filling not my thing...to much of a mush and the wood fired peach cobbler tasted like they put all their grilling juice on top of canned peaches which is probably not far from true. I highly recommend this place for the brisket, which was very good. The outdoor sitting area is lovely for sitting outside in the summer. They are BYOB. Very cool place for groups.
(4)
Coale S.

Went here with last night for dinner and had a great experience. The staff was really friendly and attentive. I got the half rack of ribs which were awesome! I really love how they keep this place simple. No fancy decoration and a tiny dining area really makes for a more intimate and cozy dining experience. I have been loving to discover these great little restaurants located off the radar, away from the crowded and chaotic trendy neighborhoods where you might expect to find a place like this. I'll definitely be returning in the future!
(5)
Angela C.

This review is for the BBQ class. Although I had to wait 6 months to take the BBQ class, I highly recommend it for those who are interested in BBQ in general, but the class focuses on Texas-style smoked BBQ in particular. A small portion of the class has hands-on activities, but most of the class is spent either sitting at your table or standing around the work table and watching Jared prepare the food you're going to eat.. Jared is the owner of the restaurant and the teacher for the class, and he is very knowledgeable and friendly. The class took 3 hours, and it got very warm inside the kitchen/classroom. I recommend wearing short sleeves/tank top and shorts, and to tie your hair back. Food I liked included the texas caviar, beef brisket, pulled pork, ribs, all 4 BBQ sauces they had available, iced tea (offered plain and sweetened), and root beer. I didn't care for the truffle mac n cheese, but I don't care for the truffle flavor generally. I thought the custard cornbread was revolting, but other class participants liked it. I'm looking forward to coming back to try the food from the restaurant. Both the class and restaurant are BYOB, and there's a liquor store across the street. If you're driving here, you can find metered street parking on Western and free parking on Lunt. An unexpected detail about Rub's: for music in the restaurant, they play vinyl records.
(5)
Scott P.

Thx yelp for pointing the way to us out of towners just passing thru. Awesome food music atmosphere and friendly service. Variety of sauces and great free pickles on the table was a great start to some delicious BBQ.
(5)
Jeannie A.

My friend has always raved about Rub. He loves it so much, he catered our work xmas party from them. The catered food was awesome! This was my first taste of Rub. Same friend raved about the BBQ cooking class at Rub. So, I bought the Groupon (2 people for $99). It is a BYOB cooking demo - and it was incredible - totally worth the money. We learned all about smoking, smokers, cuts of meat, and pretty much everything BBQ. We ate brisket, ribs, pork, truffle mac & cheese, corn bread, pickles, cowboy caviar. This was all over a 3-hour period. We learned so much and ate until we all wanted to bust - and then took food and bbq sauce home. I highly recommend the class. Finally, went with another friend just to eat at the restaurant this past weekend. This friend is from TX and has standards for his BBQ. We BYOB'd it with Fat Tire (there is a liquor store across the street in case you forget to bring.). We opted to split a big ass meat platter. We also ordered the beans and a large mac & cheese sans the truffle oil. (Note - I find the truffle oil in their mac & cheese to be very overpowering). All the food was so good! Service in the restaurant is really great - super friendly and the workers seem to actually want to be there. They will put your beer in the frige to keep it cold while you drink. If you are up in the Rogers Park area, I strongly recommend stopping here.
(5)
Melanie S.

I've had Rub's bookmarked since before it changed its name and it was in its old location. After encountering an hour and a half wait at Parson's (and no food service on their patio), we headed up to Rub's. I liked that they're creative with the menu and in addition to standard barbecue items, they also offer Reuben sandwiches, nachos, and paninis--all with their signature pulled pork. We ordered a lot of food to try: the Reuben sandwich, a half slab of ribs, a "taster" of brisket, truffled mac and cheese, and the custard cornbread. The ribs had a nice tug and a flavorful rub, and I complemented them with their sweet and smokey barbecue sauce (one of their four signature sauces). The brisket was fine, but I found it to be a bit mushy. The truffle in the mac 'n cheese was subtle, the custard cornbread was unlike any I've had before and I really enjoyed it. I liked (not loved) most of the food; my biggest issue was that none of it was hot. In fact, all of it was room temperature at best. I can deal with eating barbecue that's lukewarm, but sorry, mac 'n cheese needs to be piping hot. I felt bad asking them to stick it back in the oven, but even when it was brought back out, it still wasn't hot enough. That disappointed me. We were pretty full, but we also ordered two desserts to take with us: the peach cobbler and the Texas sheet cake. I loved the cobbler. It had such a unique flavor...almost a smokiness. The biscuit topping was the perfect texture and had just the right amount of sweetness. The sheet cake was good too; a chocolate cake with the frosting added while the cake is still warm, so it melts into the cake and forms a glaze. Rich, but delicious. Service was good; I think our server was new, but she was sweet. I also love the fact they have a turntable and play actual albums. The tunes seem fitting; we heard Bob Seger and the Stones...I guess those go with barbecue. RBS is byob, and there's a liquor store conveniently located just across the street. While Rub's doesn't hold a candle to Smoque, I liked it enough to warrant paying another visit.
(3)
Steve L.

My favorite Chicago place for the down-home BBQ experience. Again, as i've said in my other Q reviews, I'm not the guy to talk to about brisket. It's always good, but I'm always thinking "Meh, why would I have this when I could be eatin' me some ribs?" They have the second-best rub in Chicago. It's really, really good; worth having any day of the week. They do a wonderful job of smoking, and I could eat a slab without a single drop of sauce. That said, the sauces are delicious. The sides here are easily the best, both in terms of flavor and quality, and all the food is brought to you by their friendly, friendly staff. Their truffle oil Mac and Cheese, formerly called the Spiral Staircase of Cheese at their old location, is made with rotini noodles, several kinds of cheese, and brought to a head by the truffle oil. The custard-filled cornbread is inspired. Beans and slaws are top notch. Then there are the desserts. Oh my! Peach cobbler, smoked apple crisp and peach cobbler (two lightly-smoked desserts!) or their Texas sheet cake all look and taste amazing, and are all huge. This is the best BBQ experience in Chicago. One place has a better rub, but if I had my druthers, I'd live down the block from this place.
(5)
k h.

I just received delivery of a pulled pork sandwich and Mac 'n' cheese ... One minute after eating it I promptly vomited. All I could taste was liquid smoke. I threw the rest of my lunch. Disgusting.
(1)
Keil L.

Good ribs and good service. Takeout menu miss a few things I expect in a rib joint: rib tips, greens, sweet potato pie.
(4)
Jeremy S.

Brisket was moist and tasty even right before closing time. Great smoke flavor, and perfect smoke ring in the brisket. Sausage was a bit dry, but again we were there at end of the day, so having been smoked earlier it is understandable. Was rather loud in the restaurant. There was one large party that took over half the space and made it impossible for me to hear my tablemate. It was a group gathering for a birthday celebration, they should have been put in the other half where the restaurant teaches classes.
(4)
Scott O.

Oh, you hidden gem. A friend told us about this place a month ago so a group of 4 of us went here last night. We were in BBQ heaven! We had so much fun and, if you're lucky, Chris will be your server which will only enhance your experience. I had the homemade sweet tea which was fantastic (next time I'm trying the fig vanilla black pepper soda). We started with the BBQ nachos. I got to taste the pork and chicken and it was superb. For my entree I had the brisket on a brioche bun (recommended by Chris instead of the brisket melt). The meat was fantastically tender. The sauces are on the table and I tasted each and went with the citrus chipotle. Begins with a nice sweetness and the heat is in the aftertaste which is just the way I like BBQ sauce. I had a side of smoked meaty beans. Oh rapture!!! They came in a small cast-iron skillet and tasted just like they were straight from a campfire. Other dinners at the table included the tacos (not my idea of something to order at a BBQ place but my friend, Sheila loved them), the ribs (high-praise by Frank), and the pork/chicken combo. The decor is great. Like a ribs shack in the Carolinas only clean!! The menu comes on an old record album covers and the music is being played on a record player in the front. Their are very few tables so it fills up fast. In my opinion, not just the best BBQ restaurant in Chicago, perhaps the best BBQ restaurant I've ever been to anywhere.
(5)
Amy M.

Taken white female seeks barbecue on par with that she grew accustomed to after living in the south. Loves saucey pork, moist cornbread, and temping sides. Bonus points if you offer sweet tea. Unfortunately Rub's let me down. I approached it cautiously -- the reviews were too mixed to instill confidence in me. As we took our seats at a picnic table on the patio sidelining Western Ave I thought to myself "it smelled amazing in there. I bet this will be amazing". Unfortunately it was just okay. While I would say the portion size is right for the price, I was really disappointed as soon as I saw my meal. I hate places that sell things cheaply and a la cartly. Make it a dinner platter, put a $12 price tag on it and I'll be happy. Instead I paid $7 for a little pork, a few chips, and a little cole slaw. And the disappointment was only furthered. No sauce jumped out at me as delicious. And that fatty tasty pulled pork really needed a great sauce. We left no longer hungry, but not particularly satisfied. My quest for good barbecue in Chicago continues..
(3)
AJ W.

I consider myself a BBQ snob and believe me when I say I enjoy this place. Unique sauces, tender meat and great atmosphere. What more do you need? Definitely a Chicago gem.
(5)
J S.

I had a delivery from here and I was impressed. So, I feel that says a lot. The ribs were pretty good but the Brisket was spot on. I'm from the south (born in Texas and my grandparents are from Memphis) so I have had my fair share of BBQ. It sounds funny to say but I am giving such a high rating b/c the Brisket was great BUT the housemade potato chips were DOPE. It was something unexpected with the order and they were smoked. Wow. Get theres. I will be ordering from here again and I'm sure it will earn another star.
(3)
D F.

Easily Best bbq on the north side. Brisket is delish. Pulled pork is delish. Brisket burger is the best burger ever! Smokey chips yum. Hand made soda was tasty. Coleslaw, truffle Mac & cheese - good too! Ordered 8 lbs brisket & pulled pork on 4th of July and it was a hit!
(5)
Paul P.

The pork and chicken were good, and so was the Sweet BBQ Sauce. Unfortunately they didn't give you enough BBQ sauce to put on one type meat, let alone both. The Mustard BBQ Sauce was more mustard than BBQ, stay away from it. The two most recommended items are the custard filled cornbread and the truffle mac and cheese. Avoid both. The truffle mac and cheese was so garlicy/truffley that I could barely eat it. The custard cornbread was absolutely terrible. It was so rich it makes your stomach turn and doesn't even taste good enough to make it worth it. The cornbread would be great on it's own, too bad they had to ruin it.
(3)
Leslie C.

I'll keep this short... I took my husband here last night for his birthday. After scouring yelp for a new BBQ joint we've never tried before, I settle on here - hoping it was worth the nearly 10 mi. drive. Upon arriving, it was much smaller than I expected, and I was immediately disappointed to see that the "full bar" I specified in my search was in fact BYOB. Whatever, let's get to the food. We split a full slab of ribs which were tasty on their own, and each got a side. I got the truffle mac & cheese and he got the meaty beans, both left something to be desired. A big left down were the sauces! The house sauce was awful, leaving the Citrus Chipotle the only palatable one. Other notes: the decor was appropriate for the theme, and the service was prompt but could have been a bit warmer. Would I go back? Probably not as long as there are many other BBQ restaurants that I much better prefer that also happen to be closer to home.
(2)
Elise M.

This place is great, nice smokey Bbq flavor on the ribs, which are not drowned in sauce. The BBQ sauce is on the table, all if which is homemade, to add as much or as little to your ribs as you like. I did try the truffled mac n cheese as well. I thought us was a bit dry and not creamy. The service is friendly and fast. I would definitely go back.
(4)
Danielle P.

I ordered from them by there via GrubHub and never received the food after three hours of waiting I called and no one even knew where my order was...Never will order from this company again
(1)
Edward O.

Thanks for making it better
(5)
Mike D.

Appropriately rated one of Chicago's Top 10! The measure of a BBQ joint is their brisket, and Rub's brisket is one of the best I've ever had (that includes Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Missouri). The 2nd measure of a BBQ joint (for me anyway) is the beans. Rub's beans are excellent - meaty and smoky. Character enhanced by menus on old vinyl album covers (they play records for their music), and homemade sodas like fig vanilla black pepper. To top it all off the Dutch apple pie was outstanding! I went for the first time yesterday and I'm bringing my girlfriend back there tonight. It's that good! Smoque is good, but this place is better.
(5)
Nicole H.

The staff was nice enough. I was greeted and given a menu as soon as I walked in. Lots of smiles I ordered a small slab and a mac and cheese. The slab came with house made chips and coleslaw. The meat was pretty tender. I was given three sauces to go with them. the mac and cheese was just okay for me. To be honest: I didn't care for any of the sauces. They just didn't do it for me. The burger sounds interesting and I may go back to try it.
(2)
Whitney Y.

I ordered delivery from this place. I wish they would have told me they charge a $3 delivery charge. That would have been a nice courtesy. They forgot my sauce in the order. I found the mac and cheese very bland, very dry, and the mac overcooked. It was such a disappointment. The coleslaw has a strange smell to it as if some ingredient had turned so I stayed away from it so as to avoid food poisoning. The ribs (the price is incorrect their online menu) were tough and very greasy. I won't be back despite living in Rogers Park. Save your money and avoid this place...or take your $ and go to Smoque.
(1)
Steve G.

Best place for ribs and all bar-b-que foods in the north side of Chicago. They smoke their own meats. SPIN real vinyl records. Ribs are fresh and meaty. Excellent sides too. It is BYOB - There is a liquor store across the street. It gets busy so be ready to wait 10-20 minutes for a table on Thurs-Sat. They won "BEST RIBS" in 2015 at Chicago's RibFest! Great upgrade for the Western Ave. area.
(5)
Daniel H.

Amazing BBQ spot! Great price & great food! $8 plate for brisket & homemade dill pickles. You have to come. A small place, but a lot of heart. The ambiance is perfect & very BBQ. If you're looking for a smooth Q spot on the north side of Chicago, then you have to come. They even have a real turntable playing! Amazing! Get here now. And the peach cobbler is of real!
(5)
Greg G.

Great place, but not my favorite BBQ place. Got the 'little bit of everything' plate and every meat I sampled was great. The place is also BYOB which is awesome... money saved on drinks becomes money spent on food! All the meat was well cooked and all of it full of flavor. If you like ribs and big portions, you'll like this place. Just so you know, when you leave the joint, your clothes will REEK of that BBQ wood smell. It's not a gross smell, just a headsup.
(3)
Paul H.

I went back in a couple weeks ago after not having eaten here in about six months. I ordered a slab of ribs and the mac n' cheese. The restaurant was packed (always a good sign)! The ribs were excellent and I was really close to giving 5 stars but I have had better so I can't give the coveted "5 star" rating just yet... I do think that this restaurant is a winner and I also feel that the ribs have gotten better since they first opened. Keep up the good work Rub's!
(4)
Herb J.

Awesome custard filled cornbread and the truffle Mac n cheese is worth the trip alone. I really enjoyed the Texas Tacos and I'm planning my next meal. My friend had the baked potato, so it's high on my list.
(4)
Amerika J.

Taking in consideration that I am from Texas I really don't have high hopes for BBQ restaurants in Chicago. Ordered delivery..... was told an hour but food got here an hour and forty minutes later. The food was cold, the sauces blah, Custer corn bread ? Not so good either.. Brisket bland, greasy. I think the only thing that was decent was the sausages. For the 50 bucks I paid it was not worth it at all. First and last time ordering from this place
(2)
Danielle C.

Holy CRUD! Bust out your fat pants, put on your flip-flops, and be prepared to waddle! This place has some delicious food- and I am not kidding! As of this writing I think my favorite menu item is the brisket burger. Beef brisket, shredded and turned into a patty, cooked and slathered in cheese, placed on a bun and serve hot to you! This alone is enough for two meals- for real! Just thinking about it makes me want one now! The pulled pork is extreme with your choice of barbecue sauce, you name it- tastiness!! My dining companions have greatly enjoyed the baked beans as well as the macaroni and cheese. Typically I skipped all of that and go straight for dessert. The Texas chocolate cake is incredible. The food here is to be enjoyed whether you eat on-site or have it delivered. What a find!
(5)
Liz O.

Coming from someone who loves barbecue, specifically pulled pork, this place was great. The pork had awesome flavor, the truffled Mac n Cheese was to die for, and the skillet cookie was in fact sent from heaven. If you're looking for good southern barbecue, you've come to the right place. Not to mention, the staff was incredibly friendly. Highly recommend Rub's.
(5)
Zach H.

Easily the best BBQ in Chicago. Genuine pit BBQ in a charming, homey space. Ridiculously reasonable prices, house made craft sodas, and a classic blues or rock record spinning on the turntable all add up to make this one of the best casual nights out in the city. The pork and the chicken are always perfect and the brisket runs out quickly on weekends. I've had a couple times where the brisket was subpar but both were later in the evening and I had perfectly tender ones the next two times I went back. I could honestly eat here or order take out every single night. There are still tons of menu items I've not had the occasion to try but look forward to exploring in the future. If you're looking for a reason to trek all the way north to Rogers Park this is it!
(5)
Bud C.

Just wondering again why I paid $12.00 for a sandwich served by a grumpy waitress when I could have had more polite service at the McDonalds four doors south at half the price. I only needed something to eat, not an attitude. Sandwich was very good, waitress seemed bothered - which has been the theme more than once. Hope management is reading this.
(1)
Ben V.

Awesome food and great friendly service and staff. The meat is tender and smoked beautifully and the housemade sauces and sides and drinks are awesome. Will definitely go back as its the best BBQ in Chicago that I've had. We got ribs, brisket and sausage.
(5)
Courtney H.

Had my first delivery from this restaurant through GrubHub a couple of weeks ago and was so disappointed! The "barbecue" was essentially just smoked meats that came with a tiny cup of barbecue sauce. The macaroni and cheese was bland and pretty much inedible (this is saying a lot, because it's hard to mess up macaroni and cheese!). Even my kids wouldn't eat the food! On top of this, they didn't include my entire order. Big letdown.
(1)
Keith C.

We stopped by on a Sunday for lunch, lots of seats available. Servers were very attentive, and kind to new comers. We order the every meat platter, and the stars were the pulled pork and chicken. the brisket was good as well, not up to the other two. Ribs were ok, I have had much better. We used the sweet and smokey sauce, good taste, could have a bit more bite. the smokey chips were not good, they should think about preparing them another way, because they tasted alot like you were eating wood chips. we ordered the baked potato, and it was good, wife liked it, I was not a fan of the cheese they used. one of the best items is the pickled cucumbers that are on the table. I could eat a whole jar. Parking was hard to come by, but you will find something eventually.
(4)
Alison P.

Very good BBQ. The pulled pork is really good, and so are the ribs. I have gotten to go and had delivery. I love that they include the different sauces with the meals. All of the sauces are good, it's nice to have the variety. The truffle mac and cheese is great. The food is packed neatly, which is important. It arrives hot and looking the way it should.
(4)
A. S.

OMG. DELICIOUS. Come Hungry. Leave Happy. I have the absolute misfortune;) of living 1 block away and go here WAY too often. I have literally had everything and can't get enough of anything. Their Brisket Burger is my absolute FAVORITE burger in the city (DMK's Bison burger being a close second). My cat even fights me for a bite of the pulled pork panini. The corn bread and Mac are To die for. The owner and Chef is hilarious and just a pleasure to be around. Do not miss a chance to stop by! I know BBQ Snobs that go out of their way to eat here.
(5)
Fred C.

visited Rub last night with two friends. We took part in their BBQ 101 class for a whole evening of learning about and chewing down on BBQ brisket, pulled pork and ribs. The host/teacher was great and the food to die for. I'll be back.
(5)
Derek V.

Wow! Just wow...that's all I can say about Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse. I came across this place looking for good BBQ in the city not name Smoque (which I love.) So I decided to take the drive to Rogers Park and glad I did. Walked in and was greeted handsomely by the waitress Gwen, who was a absolute sweetheart! Sat down, took a gander at the menu for a few mins I went with the "Big Guys Meal" that had ribs, brisket, pulled chicken & pulled pork...Oh my! The wife went with the "Brisket Melt" with the Mac & Cheese...OMG! We destroyed everything. The sauces were a pleasant surprise too. Our favorite was the South Carolina Gold which is a mustard based sauce. The atmosphere was great as well. Wood from a old barn on the walls, pictures of cattle and what the cuts are, flags of the great BBQ regions (Texas...which is my home state. NC, SC and TN) a big blue neon sign that says Blues BBQ and the kicker was they actual had Blues music playing over the speaker. After all was said and done, we paid for the meal I spoke with our waitress Gwen and said I'm from the south and smoke myself and she does what NO ONE does and actually took me to the back and showed me their smoker! I recommend this place to anyone looking for a great time and amazing food needs to take a trip to Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse BBQ. Cheers!
(5)
Jessica H.

My husband and I stopped into this place for the first time recently. Though I am not into the semi-communal seating, I think there may be regular tables on the other side. The lighting was dim and nice. The menus are made from old LPs and they carry Joe Sno sodas. I ordered some tacos which were really good and the mac and cheese which is super rich and tasty. My husband had the briskey burger which was really great. The food was a lot better than expected, prices were reasonable, our server was really nice, and I like the atmosphere. The second time we tried to call in a to-go order and the person who answered the phone was REALLY rude. She made me feel like I was bothering her because I wanted to put an order in. Hopefully, that's a one-off. Otherwise, I would definitely recommend this place. I am not sure of any other good BBQ places around this way.
(4)
Rahul G.

I came here for the BBQ class, got it as a gift. Came away very impressed and very full! The owner who did the class was awesome, love his story. He took tons of questions, was super friendly, let people come up and do stuff with him. The food was served at a great rate and everything was super delicious. The brisket was so flavorful, the cornbread was something so different and good, and the ribs were my favorite. Also the pulled pork! All the sauces were so good and love that I came around with a bunch to take home. And the mac and cheese with truffle oil, whoa! I can't wait to come back and eat in the restaurant. Worth the drive from the city. The story about the wood smoker is worth the trip alone. Learned so much and can't wait to put it all to use.
(5)
Frank Y.

Rub's is a newish BBQ place in West Rogers Park, right on Western. It is a very good BYOB BBQ place. When my wife and I go there, we usually get the Big Guy's Meal. It is a total steal at just under $15--totally enough for two people with big appetites. You get a sample of ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and chicken with sides. The ribs are very good. The rub is sweet and tangy, but it tastes very good with the ribs. The chicken also has a great rub and is juicy and flavorful. The brisket is a little dry for my tastes, but it is flavorful. The pulled pork is decent. The truffle mac and cheese is very tasty. I doesn't taste like real truffles to me (or they would charge more); but truffle salt and mac and cheese works just fine for me. The meaty beans are also good. I would give this place a higher rating if I liked the sauces more. They have a variety of sauces. They are decent but not the best that I have had. I like the Citrus Chipotle and the Smokey Sweet. I love mustard BBQ sauce on pulled pork, but Rub's is just OK. Quite honestly, the ribs are good enough to eat without sauce, which is what I recommend.
(4)
Michael G.

great food. pulled pork is off da charts. dig the groovy vibes bros. south Carolina gold wasnt pleasing to my pallet. they made their own pickles. who does that crap. these guys do. boom.
(4)
Beth M.

So happy to have discovered a restaurant this good in West Rogers Park, where selection is limited. I've only ordered online, through grubhub, and I have to say, Rubs is a treat, it comes hot and fresh every time. (we're quite close and probably should just go pick it up) We've ordered traditional bbq dinners (brisket and pulled pork) a few times, and it was decadent. Love the choice of sauces too. The chips taste like the smell of a camp fire, which is real nice when you haven't left the city in a while. Wish they put more in the order, since there isn't an option to order a side of them online. On a recent Friday night, we stayed in and wanted burgers. We didn't want some crappy thin delivery burger, either. Being a cold-ass Friday in January, we wanted something to look forward to. With little to choose from, we ended up ordering from Rub's, thinking we were sort of "chancing" it, since it was a BBQ place, and delivery no less. Rubs exceeded our expectations. The burgers were amazing-simple, great flavor, buttery bun. I could only eat half of mine. Husband scarfed down his and then wanted my other half. It was so good, I said no, and then ate more for brunch the next day. Wished it came with a little onion though, ( I added my own) as the burgers arrive plain, aside from the cheese. Mac n cheese is ok, it's on the dry side. We had the skillet cookie once for dessert, very good. They even pack you up a little bit off ice cream. Last night we had the peach cobbler. I didn't like it too much. It was very dry and "bready", not enough peaches, and tasted like it had bbq seasoning on it too, maybe it's supposed to, who knows. After working in Englewood for four years, I simply prefer ridiculously sweet pan-style cobbler with crispy crust, there's no going back after that. Also, wish they had all the fancy drinks for carryout that they offer in-house, can't wait to experience the root beer. Five dollar delivery is hard to swallow w/tip, but I'll keep paying it because it's so f-ing crappy outside, and Rubs is really, really good.
(4)
Tricia D.

Things i thought during my first visit here: - "they must go through tons of those paper boats a day" - "damn" -- as a result of having to wait for a table 30 min before closing (though it was a less than 10 min wait) - "that truffle mac 'n cheese was the best thing I ate" - "I guess I really like mustardy BBQ sauces" - "does this brisket make my butt look big?" By far, the biggest epiphany for me on this night is that I'm a cornbread traditionalist. Though I was thrilled to try Rub's custardy take on the southern must-have, it wasn't my cup of (sweet) tea. Plus, I was expecting it to be served warm for some reason. A few other parting notes: service was a little more leisurely than expected, the brisket was juicy, and if you're hangry, try the hungry man's meal (3 meats with coleslaw and chips on the side).
(3)
Anthony R.

Jared (the owner) does everything right here. Awesome place, awesome value, incredible food and I love the dedication to the craft. He is opening Budlong Pickle and Chicken Shop soon too! Can't wait to see what he does with it!!
(5)
Esther A.

First thing we noticed coming through the door was that it smelled amazing in there. Second impression took in the cozy ambiance and great music. Received a warm welcome from the staff, followed by a happy perusal of the menu. I ordered a half pound of sliced brisket (delicious, tender, great bark on the outside), a regular sized truffle mac and cheese (served in a skillet, plenty for two, super rich and tasty), and the peach cobbler for dessert (also served in a skillet, with a generous slab of vanilla ice cream on top). Munched some homemade pickles during the very short wait for our meals. Tried all the sauces...not a dud in the bunch. Momentarily wished we'd remembered that the place was BYOB, but in the end, left absolutely full and happy!
(5)
Amanda W.

We stumbled on this place coming home from an event in Rogers Park several weeks ago and were really impressed. It's a smaller joint with a very homey feel, eclectic decor, and most importantly, kick-a$$ bbq. Hubby got the big guys platter, which is a sampler of three different meats, and I had a pulled pork sandwich. Everything was moist, flavorful, and had a great smoke flavor. They offer a choice of three different house-made sauces, all with a unique twist, all delicious. My husband also got a side of their beans, which he said were the best he'd ever had. The service was quick and friendly, and the tab was pretty cheap for all the food we got. Tonight we decided to do carryout, which I was skeptical about, and they did not disappoint. We live 10 minutes away, and everything was still warm when I got it home, thanks to their careful packaging. Fat Willy's was previously our closest go-to for Bbq, followed by Smokin' Woody's, but this place far surpasses both. We'll definitely be back, bibs and all!
(5)
Erica I.

If you love smoky flavor, this is the place to go. I am so glad I heard about this place, even though it's a little out of the way. My favorite thing is the Rub Panini with pork. Mmm the melted cheese, apple chutney, and buttery grilled texas toast makes it one of the best sandwiches I've had in a while! I also love the side of smoky chips. We split a small side of mac and cheese, which was okay. I really loved the complementary homemade pickles at each table. They are so good! The decor is really cute, with handkerchiefs as napkins, ball jars for cups, and the menu as an old record case. I also loved how quick the food came out, and everyone was friendly even when we asked for our check right away because we were in a hurry.
(5)
Alex M.

This place is awesome. If I lived any closer to this place I'd be in there 2-3 times a week. Their pulled pork is amazing, their brisket is amazing and their custard-filled cornbread is dangerously good. I've yet to have anything here that wasn't awesome. Their sauces aren't my favorite but the meat stands on its own without it. They have homemade soda's which are quite tasty as well.
(5)
Calin D.

This little BBQ stop often has lines out the door. And after having tried the brisket and the ribs, I know why! Their sauces are great, and the smoked meat is some of the best around! If you go, say hello to Jared and Amanda and be sure to try the amazing cobbler with ice cream and/or a root beer float for dessert. Yummy!
(4)
Cherie W.

Wow!!! Had second meal here and it was AMAZING!! The cornbread with custard topping is A MUST!! I have never had anything like it and so delicious. Hubby had stuffed potato with brisket and I had pulled pork Ruben, both very, very good. The staff was very friendly and great tunes were playing on the turntable. Yes, good old vinyl. I've raised my opinion to 5 stars after this meal. It was excellent!
(5)
Peter S.

One word: decadent. I had the brisket with cream filled cornbread. I was bloated when I finished my meal and when I relaxed at home afterwards I was mistaken for beached whale. That is how content I felt.
(5)
Marcee W.

Not sure why I've waited so long to try this place, unless it was because I feared disappointment. Now that I've finally conquered that fear, I can say with confidence that there's nothing to be afraid of here! Tried the combo platter for a taste of brisket, pulled pork and ribs, all delicious! Baked beans were tasty and meaty and the frosted root beer was amazing. Enjoyed experimenting with the three sauces offered and was satisfied despite other reviewers wanting more. Waited a long time for good bar-b-que to come to my neighborhood. I'll be back soon!
(4)
Greg K.

This place is the best. The smoke hits you when you walk in the door, your clothes smell like a campfire after you leave and the food gives you narcolepsy.
(5)
Tommy K.

I love Rub. The best BBQ I have had in Chicago. It is a very quaint little smokehouse right on Western and Lunt. I drove past it for years without noticing it, until friends took me there last summer. I could not believe what I was missing out on! What makes this place great is everything is smoked. The meat comes out fresh, not dry. What I like too, is there are multiple BBQ sauces to choose from, to slather on whatever meat you order. I love their chipotle honey sauce. They have a mustard flavored one too, that is really good. My favorite is the pulled pork. I typically get a full 1 pound order of the pork with the beans. The ribs are phenomenal, too. My second favorite would have to be their Rueben sandwich. The restaurant itself is very small since it's literally a shack. Yet, that is what makes the environment so cute and fun. You feel like you are in a BBQ shack in Texas. The menus are all on old classic rock/Motown record sleeves. When your parents come to visit from St. Louis, and they want to go to Rub for dinner, then you know the place is a hit.
(5)
Katharine T.

This is a very strong 3. Reasons for it not being a 4 explained below. I've been meaning to go to Rub's for literally about 2 + years. Finally went this past weekend and had a great time. Really nice atmosphere and interior. Took me back to Memphis (although I am NOT comparing these ribs to Memphis BBQ at all, no sir). Super nice staff. Nice big tables with a big selection of sauces on the table. When you walk in it actually smells like smoked meat, this is a good sign. We ordered (too much food) a full slab of ribs, a half lbs of the pulled pork and a small "regular" sized side of the truffle mac n cheese. The slab was awesome. Good smoke, good flavor, tasted delicious without any sauce. Really, really good. The pulled pork was also good, it wasn't dried out, thank god, but I wouldn't say the pulled pork was really, really good. Not like the ribs. I'd skip it next time. The truffle mac n cheese was also pretty good but really needed salt. I added a lot, this made it a lot better. The kettle chips that come on the side with the ribs and pulled pork were tasty, good and crunchy but not really necessary, as in, I'd rather you give me smoked beans or cornbread instead of potato chips. The slaw that also comes on the side of the pulled pork and ribs was WORTHLESS. This is part of why I cannot give this place 4 stars. It was super typical, grocery store, white slaw with overly sweet mayo dressing and a few flecks of shaved carrot. I like both sweet and vinegary slaws. This was just blegh. One bite and I was done. That's disappointing because good slaw is so good. Another reason I cannot give 4 stars is because of their sauces. There were 4 to choose from and I didn't really think any of them were good except for the Citrus Chipotle, which I was not expecting to like. It was spicy and smokey and a little sweet. The Smokey Sweet was too sweet and just not that great. The Smoked Jalapeno also wasn't all that great, lacking in what I thought would be great smoke and spicy flavor, based on the name. I tried both of these before I tried the Citrus Chipotle and thought they were too sweet and lacked any really unique flavor. The Citrus Chipotle was actually good though, boyfriend agreed. They have one other BBQ Sauce, something like South Carolina Gold that I was hoping would be a vinegar based sauce, it was unfortunately not. It was pretty terrible to be honest and tasted like raspberries. They really need to get a good tangy vinegar sauce. The ribs don't need sauce thankfully, they are that tasty, but I like sauce. I like to mix sweet and spicy and vinegary. At least the Citrus Chipotle was good but we almost had a complete sauce miss and if you don't have good sauce then it's kind of a problem (for me anyway). So, super strong 3 stars for excellent ribs. Good but could use a bit of work pulled pork and truffle mac n cheese. A little less than 4 stars because their slaw was embarrassing and we could really improve those BBQ sauces or get more variety than just sweet. I will be back for those ribs though and I will probably try some beans or cornbread next time.
(3)
Alex J.

This is a fantastic Chicago BBQ spot. I ordered the half slab of ribs with an extra order of pork and an extra side of the truffled mac and cheese. The meats were tender and full of flavor. The mac and cheese was outstanding. The only thing I didn't not like was the coleslaw. I will definitely be back again.
(5)
Steve O.

I tried their ribs last year at ribfest and have been meaning to visit their restaurant for some time. I grew up in Rogers Park and look for -any- excuse to get back there. Last night on the way to the Sox game were were at Devon and Western when my son's phone alert went off telling us the game was cancelled. Hmm what to do what to do... dinner? Hey, there's a BBQ place right up the street... and so we went! I mean, 5, 6 years ago I would have given this place 5 stars hands down. But 4 years ago Real Urban BBQ opened in Highland Park and for me, they have set the bar, and are still on top. Lets start with the good. The brisket was good; great really. For me, brisket is the true measure of a BBQ joint. The ribs (St. Louis) were great too. The atmosphere and ambiance were very much BBQ shack. I ordered the root beer on tap and hands down it was the best I've ever had. Way better than Richardson's. So we are off to a very very good start. BUT... they are not the only game in town. And I have had too many meals at Real Urban BBQ to ignore the comparison. The menu was small by comparison. Not nearly as much selection, for entrees or for sides. Ribs are St. Louis only - and while they were great.... I prefer baby back. There were 4 sauces, all thick; Real Urban also has a couple of vinegar style thin sauces. If you don't have the thin sauces you are not truly authentic in my opinion. Bottom line - if you are with a large group there will be less variety available to share. That may not be important to YOU for some people it will be. Service and attention was very good. Prices were great on the brisket and right on mark for the ribs. If still I lived in the neighborhood I'd be eating there quite a bit. But I prefer the larger selection (of entrees, sides and SAUCES) and open kitchen / cafeteria ambiance of Real Urban BBQ in Highland Park.
(4)
George A.

Short version: the BBQ 101 class was excellent, well worth the $, we were served plenty of food that was very good. Long version: This is a class about smoking meat, not grilling. I have been smoking for a few years and knew a lot more than the other 22 students and I still learned plenty. I liked how Jared said that you might try making real Q once and never do it again. Smoking is an all day job to do it right but the end result is well worth the work. Jared can give you the knowledge and confidence to build a good foundation. I would not recommend buying a cheap smoker to start out with. I bought the stackable Brinkman $60 smoker a few years ago, had to make modifications, and at times I wanted to quit. Take Jared's class, get a good smoker, and you will impress yourself and guests. Smoking can be messy, hot, frustrating, and the most weekend fun you can have at home. I'm so glad I took this class even after reading countless forums and spending many hours in the backyard. Do it.
(5)
Xiaoxi W.

Pretty good place, $16 big guy comes a lot of food. Very nice place for summer. The home made soda is awesome!
(4)
Heather P.

We made a great night of our visit here. Growing up in this neighborhood, I have very few reasons to return but glad that I found Rub and it draws me back to the old hood. Side note, Indian Boundary Park is located right around the corner and is an excellent park for kids and adults of all ages - on a nice day, it would be a super nice idea to pick up your bbq and set up a picnic in the park. I just came up with that idea and hope I remember it next summer! It gets busy so we go early. It's hard to order from here since it's all so good. I go with the hungry man's sampler plate. Judge if you will, I don't care! It's a little of everything, just what I want. I love that you can sample the sauces and decide for yourself which you prefer for your meat. The sweet and sassy (or something like that) is killer in my opinion. For sides I've done the beans and mac and cheese. I don't remember the mac and cheese, so I guess that's saying something about that. However: the beans were really meaty and hearty. I highly recommend the beans. On my next visit, I will probably have to get the bread pudding because really what's a bbq joint without a good bread pudding.
(4)
RNaomi G.

Fabulous food and they have a good soundtrack. Loved the ribs and cornbread especially. Salad dressing needs improvement though.
(5)
Marty M.

It smelled good in there. That's all the positive I can say about this place since I actually did not get to eat there. Got there at 7 pm on a Saturday and had to wait for a table. 7:30 rolls around and we overhear the waitress tell a table they ran out of pulled pork. Of course we went here specifically for the pulled pork. Oh well, it happens at BBQ places sometimes. Also I heard they ran out of mac and cheese. Finally got sat at 7:45. Ordered brisket and corn bread and waitress says she'll have to check on the brisket as they were running low on brisket and corn bread. No sooner do those words come out of her mouth that another waitress tells our waitress they ran out of brisket. What BBQ place runs out of two staples of a BBQ menu? We literally drove 50 miles to try Rub's and left hungry. I was not going to eat there after that. It would have been nice after a half an hour of waiting for the hostess to say "we are running low on food-would you like to put your dinner order in now so we can put some food off to the side to be ready when you are seated?" Supposedly they got slammed with carryout orders. Nice to know carryout orders are more important than people willing to wait and dine and tip their staff, etc. Never going back and I would not recommend Rub's based off my poor experience. Beware-Rub's may rub you the wrong way!
(1)
Allison C.

So good amazingly home cooked, just wish there was a blue cheese sauce
(5)
Li S.

Fatty Brisket with no flavor. St. Louis cut poor flavor. What do they have against salt. Over priced, over rated and typical White folks BBQ. If Bubba ain't on the pit or seasoning the meat then Bye. If anyone in the Kitchen have no roots past Virginia then say hello to average mac, corn bread and any thing else that goes well with BBQ. Another rip off
(1)
Michael C.

You simply must try the Brisket Burger...to die for!
(4)
Robert H.

I was really hoping to love this place since I love good barbeque. It was a mixed bag on flavors to me. I had the 1/2 and 1/2 plate and for my 2 meats I selected pulled pork and brisket. It came with some chips and cole slaw. Since I'd read favorable reviews on the meaty beans I also got an order of that too. I started out with the cole slaw and was very happy with it. I had a vinegary twang to it but not so much as to be overpowering. I will definitely order it again since I love food that has some twang to it. Next I tried the pulled pork. It also was really good. I like some barbeque sauce with my pulled pork so after a couple bites of it plain I drizzled a little sauce on it. At first I thought I didn't like the sweet barbeque sauce, but within 3 bites it had kind of grown on me and I found myself enjoying it. It had a real strong twangy flavor and that's what initially put me off. The sauce was good in very small doses, but for me it was not something I'd like to drown my pork in like I normally prefer. Then came the time to try the brisket. It was pretty good, but certainly nowhere close to the best I've ever eaten. I thought the flavor of it was lacking and almost bland. I do not see myself ordering this again in the future. Finally I tried the meaty beans that I'd read some good reviews on here at Yelp. I ended up eating about 1/3 of it and that was all I could stand. It did have a decent amount of meat in it, but the vinegary twang was so strong I couldn't hardly choke it down. Now I love a good strong twangy flavor so for me to throw it out for being too intense means it was very twangy indeed. Next time I stop in I'll probably get a pulled pork sandwich and mac and cheese or maybe I'll try their ribs. If my opinion of this place substantially changes either for better or worse in the future I'll update my review.
(3)
Steve W.

Got a BBQ cooking class from groupon as a gift. The hours of class included a meal. Went with a buddy of mine. It was byob so we stopped at half acre brewing on our way to this and scored some beverages. In short this class was good. Our instructor/owner was very knowledgeable about his version of BBQ-low and slow,sauce on the side. He explained how to cook a brisket, pulled pork, pork ribs,corn bread, and Mac n cheese. Just after each explanation, he gave us samples. And these were not little samples but decent sized portions. Each items was tender,juicy, and delicious. My favorite was the brisket but each was outstanding. We got three separate sauces on the side to take home. An excellent time.
(5)
Chris F.

Really good stuff we got the big guy meal and the half and half with brisket and pull pork they were both some of the best I have had in Chicago, tender and juicy and a nice char on the outside good sauces also, two orders for 3 of us and leftovers. We got the order to go but the space looked nice also. We will be back
(4)
Ross H.

I feel like Rub's Backcountry Smokehouse's location is a blessing and a curse -- a curse in that it's located in West Rogers Park, which isn't exactly the hoppingest place for a barbeque joint (especially as a large portion of WRP is Orthodox Jews and thus keep kosher). However, the fact that it is close to my work and isn't that busy because of the location is definitely a blessing, because when I get my cravings while working, this is the place I will go to, despite its flaws (see below). Got half slab of St. Louis ribs (no baby backs here, but that's probably because "real" barbeque ribs are spare ribs), a "taster" portion of brisket and a side of Mac N Cheese. Ribs are served "dry" and had a decent amount of rub on them, but I felt there was very little meat on the bones and they were a little dry (meaning "not juicy," not the style in which they were prepared. As someone else alluded to here, I received my food literally no more than two minutes after ordering, so I have to wonder if these bad boys were just laying around, waiting to be served. The brisket, on the other hand, was OUT-OF-THIS-WORLD good. I mean, better than Smoque's brisket, which many people say is the best brisket in the city. In fact, this was only a hair or so below Franklin Barbeque's brisket in Austin, Texas, which many people say is the best brisket in the WORLD. Had a nice bark to it, an AWESOME smoke ring and was extremely tender and juicy. I wish I would have ordered that as my main portion. The Mac was good, served au gratin with a white cheddar sauce, but wasn't amazing. What I found odd was they didn't have any platters that come with two sides -- you had to order each side separately, which meant it was a little more expensive than what I am used to paying for barbeque. Plus, I didn't realize that there weren't free refills for the Root Beer, which was $2.99 a pop. Yet despite all of my nit-picking, the brisket alone is enough for me to come back here.
(3)
Christine B.

Really solid bbq place. My husband got the hungry man feast with some extra brisket. I liked the ribs the most followed by brisket, then pork and then the chicken, although I liked all of them. At first i wasn't sure about the sauces, but the more I are the more I realized all the flavors. So good. My hubs got the root beer and it was also very good. Definitely worth it! Will go back.
(5)
Rich M.

I took the smokin' class and it was a lot of fun. The pit master is passionate and gets you excited about BBQ (not that I needed help). The food was delicious and the brisket is best in Chicago. Great place with a Austin vibe.
(5)
Sabine H.

Okay, 3rd try. Really want to like this place but I have not the last 2 times. Second time, ordered the pork tacos. They were okay but the Texas caviar was bland ( from Costco?) no seasoning, no zing, no crunch. Hubby got the burnt end burger. One word, dry. This time, went back to BBQ. Got a 1/2 and 1/2 plate of pork and brisket. The brisket was cut very thick and the pork came in big lumps. Overall it was just really smoky, to the point of tasting chemical-ish. Not enjoyable or finished. Hubby had the chicken panini sandwich. He was underwhelmed by the sandwich and thought the predominant flavor was smoke. The chips taste like smoke and the coleslaw tastes mostly like raw cabbage. It is 2.5 blocks from the house and I love BBQ, I have had great versions in Texas, Kentucky, the Carolinas, even in Steamboat, It kills me but I have to admit I won't be able to walk 2.5 blocks to get it. They are just not that good unless smoke is the flavor you are craving.
(2)
Tavi P.

So glad my friends found this place for us to try yesterday. Great small place but they were gracious to reserve a table for our large party celebrating a birthday. As soon as you walk in the door, you can smell the smokey bbq flavor in the air. The food came out fast and wowed us all. The ribs so flavorful to chew off the bone. The brisket was so tender and the smoke ring around the edges was fantastic. I had the 1/2 and 1/2 with brisket and pulled pork let me just say the portions are huge and the leftovers were just as good as the first night. The four sauces on the table each have their own sweet and savory notes. My wife and I will definitely be back soon!
(5)
AJ M.

Ordered out for lunch. Had to try the pulled pork panini and it was good. For about $8 u get the sandwich few chips n coleslaw (wish it came with a drink). The chips were great crisp and smokey. The coleslaw was fresh and lite. Didn't know which sauces I got but they were good as well, I have to do myself a favor and eat in here and get the ribs. There aren't that many places like this which I think is a shame. Will have to go back but deff 5 star caliber!
(4)
Sara P.

My husband and I came here for lunch on a weekend afternoon. We were blown away by how wonderful the food was. I ordered the root beer, and it was so good. We split some spare ribs and the brisket. Both were very good. You need sauce for the brisket, it might be a little dry otherwise, but what's BBQ without the sauce? We really liked the "gold" sauce. We also ordered the mac and cheese, and it was also delicious. The slaw was good too. I have no complaints, this place is amazing. Add this place to the list of reasons why I am so happy I moved to Rogers Park.
(5)
Erin B.

Came here for a BBQ class that I bought via living social. Spent a lot of time listening to the story of why the owner wanted to open a REAL BBQ restaurant in Chicago that isn't slathered in sauce. While I agree with this, I didn't have to listen to an hour and a half lecture about why he wanted to start up his own business. It wasn't so much a cooking class, as it was a lecture about the owner's life. That left me a little disappointed. I realize that you can't have a "class" per se via smoked BBQ meats that need to go for over 12 hours or so, but don't market it as a class, which is what I, my boyfriend, and the rest of the "class" were expecting. The BBQ brisket was good, but the rest was just OK. I loved the fact that it was BYOB, and the variety of sauces that he made in house were good. There's a waitress that brings around soda/sweet tea/water and busses your dishes. Hope she get tipped from patrons/owner.
(3)
Karpick M.

I enjoy BBQ and i really appreciate a good Brisket, So that is what i ordered here. The brisket was a little dry, but it had a really good smoky flavor. I ordered coleslaw on the side and it was a little salty. This is an average BBQ restaurant.
(3)
Mike P.

Smaller than I thought from the pictures but that's fine. Service was standard, efficient. The food was definitely satisfying. They say its all over naturally burning wood, no electricity or gas. Well, whatever it is they do they do it right. My lady had the 1/2 pound plate of brisket, being the first time I did a half and half of pulled pork and brisket. The pulled pork was satisfactory, the brisket was excellent. Melt in your mouth tender and smoked just right. The menu is pretty short, there's also pulled chicken, there is a full pound option and the same in sandwich's, all basically the same price. They come with kettle chips that have a nice smoky flavor. Personally I don't see the attraction of kettle chips and as I get older I like them less but these at least taste good. We had a choice of 4 sauces on the table, the chipolte one is not very hot but just enough for me, the sweet and smokey was a good standard sauce that doesnt blow you away but stands up to most in Chicago. But you can be happy eating this brisket with any sauce or none at all. Though, for us the platters and chips would've been enough, being the first time we had to try the beans. Good flavor, big enough to share a single portion though all sides come in two sizes. It had both bacon and cubes of ham and so much so that a family sized order could make me a meal in itself. Then just because it sounded intriguing we had to try a cornbread. Cornbread with BBQ seems pretty normal but this one has a cream pastry layer through the center. You know, it works! eat it with a fork though. The cornbread itself is light, almost fluffy, with whole kernel corn in it and could easily stand on its own but with the filling...well you got to try it for yourself to understand. And the price is right!
(4)
Pam S.

We attended the cooking class with Jared today and had a fantastic time. Jared is passionate about his BBQ and has an in-depth knowledge which one rarely finds in this area. He shares his knowledge whole-heartedly but also offers other ideas on how to prepare the brisket, pulled pork and ribs as people's tastes can be different. Everything is sampled throughout the class and there's plenty of interaction between the attendees and Jared. In addition to the meats, some of the side dishes are also featured which was a nice surprise. Plenty of tips were offered for rubs, marinades, injections, cooking times and even where to get information on purchasing products. It's hard to find this much knowledge from one source, not to mention the ability to ask questions of someone and know you're getting a helpful answer. If you're someone who smokes meat or just really enjoys a great brisket, I highly recommend you sign up for this class! It's a great way to spend an afternoon!
(5)
Anthony C.

It's not much to look at, but man is it good. I've tried several BBQ places in Chicago and this one takes the cake. The brisket is a must, and they have a sweet and spicy sauce that is out of this world. Go, but don't plan to dine in. Go to one of the many parks and have a picnic instead of eating on the few picnic tables they have inside. Must try.
(4)
Stacy K.

This neighborhood gem is an excellent BBQ destination. Expect good food, reasonable prices and really good root beer. BYOB.
(5)
Gordon G.

I heard about Rub from a friend who always has it delivered. He wasn't kidding - the food is amazing. I've had BBQ all over the country and this was superb. You don't need the sauces at all, the meat is so moist and flavorful. I also ordered the truffle mac 'n' cheese and it was delicious. Now I want to go and see this place for myself. I'll be a regular customer from now on!
(5)

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Address : 6954 N Western Ave
Chicago, IL, 60645
Phone (773) 675-1410
Website https://www.backcountryq.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : Yes
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

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Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse

6954 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL, 60645

Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse Menu

Salads And Sides

Signature Sandwiches Burgers And Such

Famous Dry Rubbed Smoked Ribs

Meats

Big Guys Meal

Desserts

Healthy Meal suggestions for Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse

Salads And Sides

Signature Sandwiches Burgers And Such

Famous Dry Rubbed Smoked Ribs

Meats

Big Guys Meal

Desserts

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Mia B.

Jonathan R.

Sonya M.

John C.

Ann L.

Chet M.

Peter H.