Chicago q Serves Up a Taste of Down Home

BY WHITNEY HEWITT

Having spent most of my life in the Carolinas, I consider myself an expert on BBQ.  I’ve spent hours devouring it at countless summer picnics, family dinners, and football tailgates.  Needless to say, I was skeptical about whether or not I would find truly good BBQ when I moved to Chicago.  All of my worries went out the window when I discovered Chicago q.

There are plenty of things that make Chicago q a more-than pleasant dining experience.  The sleek farmhouse décor, the cozy (but quite large) patio, the friendly wait staff and the delicious food make it a favorite for this southern transplant.  Chef Lee Ann Whippen, also affectionately known as the “BBQ Pitmaster,” has earned her place in the BBQ hall-of-fame with countless accolades often featured on TLC’s BBQ Pitmasters and the Food Network.

My one piece of advice on visiting Chicago q: go hungry.  Customers are greeted with hefty bowls of homemade BBQ chips and pickles when they’re seated.  While these are tasty enough to fill up on, you’ll want to save room for your main course. The southern-inspired menu features dishes such as Kobe chopped brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and perhaps the most famous of all, the “competition” ribs.  While the menu is meat-heavy, there are also plenty of vegetarian options. The four different house-made BBQ sauces that come to the table are sure to suit the taste buds of everyone in your party.

Looking for a cocktail to go with your meal?  The bar does not disappoint.  If you can’t decide which of the over 30 bourbon’s you’d like to try, go with one of the bourbon flights.  The cocktail menu offers both sweet and strong drinks, but my personal favorite is the mint julep. 

Chicago q, 1160 North Dearborn. For more information call 312-624-1160, visit www.chicagoqrestaurant.com or follow Chicago q on Facebook or Twitter.

Whitney Hewitt is the founder of Gatz Optimize, a social media consulting and marketing agency.  With over eight years in marketing and communications, Hewitt puts her skills to work for both small businesses and Fortune 500 corporations. She is also the President of the Chicago chapter of Femfessionals, a professional organization dedicated to connecting and promoting savvy women in the Windy City.  Follow Whitney @GatzSocialMedia.

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