Lem's Bar-B-Q
Chicago
Lem's Bar-B-Q is a historic, James Beard-recognized South Side Chicago institution serving traditional barbecue from a walk-up window for over 70 years. Cooked over charcoal and hickory wood in a classic glass-walled aquarium smoker, they are most celebrated for their tender rib tips and hot links smothered in a signature vinegar-based sauce. While the rib tips receive high praise, full ribs may occasionally lean dry.
Commenters are broadly enthusiastic, frequently raving about the signature sauce and visual appeal of the meats. However, sentiment is somewhat mixed, with occasional complaints about inconsistent quality, meat dryness, and disappointment over the absence of beef ribs on the menu.
- Order the signature rib tips and hot links
- Request plenty of their classic vinegar-based sauce
- Prepare for long lines and wait times at the walk-up window
- Skip the regular ribs if you want to avoid potential dryness
- Note that beef ribs are not available on the menu
Summaries are created based on reviews, notes, and social media posts.
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