Best Pork in Chicago
5 restaurants compared
Price range: $4.00 – $48.00
Avg recommendation: 93%
Top 5 Pork in Chicago (Quick Answer)
Our editors' picks across 5 restaurants:
- Smoque BBQ, $11.00 (Irving Park)
- Don Pedro Carnitas, $4.00 (Pilsen)
- Don Pedro Carnitas — score 96/100, $11.99 (Pilsen)
- The Purple Pig — score 91/100, $22.00 (River North)
- Tzuco — score 91/100, $48.00 (River North)
Scroll down for detailed comparisons, prices, and diner tips for each restaurant.
All 5 Restaurants Compared
#1
Smoque BBQ
Irving Park·$$
Pulled Pork
$11.00
Tender, smoky pork shoulder served warm, pairs well with the house sauces.
Tip: Pulled pork is cheaper than brisket and ribs—good entry point if you're trying Smoque for the first time.
#2
Don Pedro Carnitas
Pilsen·$
Chicharrones
$4.00
Fried pork rinds, lightly salted and served fresh.
Tip: Chicharrones come automatically with your carnitas order—use them to scoop extra salsa or eat straight as a snack.
#3Score 96/100
Don Pedro Carnitas
Pilsen·$
Carnitas by the Pound
$11.99
Slow-cooked pork shoulder served by the pound with a choice of meat ratio.
Tip: Show up before 11am on weekdays to avoid selling out—the kitchen sometimes runs low by mid-afternoon.
#4Score 91/100
The Purple Pig
River North·$$$
Milk-Braised Pork Shoulder
$22.00
Slow-braised pork shoulder in milk with vegetables and aromatics, served with mashed potatoes.
Tip: This dish is comfort food refined — order it if you want something rich and satisfying.
#5Score 91/100
Tzuco
River North·$$$$
Pork Shank
$48.00
Braised in pineapple vinegar, cinnamon, and guajillo peppers, wrapped in banana leaves.
Tip: The flavors are bold and the cooking is slow — this is comfort food refined.