Where is the best ribs in Chicago?

Based on diner recommendations, the best ribs in Chicago is at Lem's Bar-B-Q. We compared 9 restaurants serving ribs.

How much does ribs cost in Chicago?

Ribs prices in Chicago range from $12.25 to $30.00 across 9 restaurants.

Best Ribs in Chicago

9 restaurants compared

Price range: $12.25 – $30.00

Avg recommendation: 93%

Top 5 Ribs in Chicago (Quick Answer)

Based on diner recommendations across 9 restaurants:

Lem's Bar-B-Q, $30.00 (Chatham)
The Gage, $18.00 (Loop)
Lem's Bar-B-Q, $25.00 (Chatham)
Lem's Bar-B-Q — 96% recommended, $12.25 (Chatham)
Smoque BBQ — 96% recommended, $17.00 (Irving Park)

Scroll down for detailed comparisons, prices, and diner tips for each restaurant.

All 9 Restaurants Compared

Lem's Bar-B-Q

Chatham·$

Bucket of Tips

$30.00

Large-format rib tips order for sharing or serious appetite.

Tip: Pre-order a bucket if you're feeding a group—walk-in availability varies.

The Gage

Loop·$$

Spicy Buffalo Ribs

$18.00

House ribs with spicy buffalo sauce and balsamic BBQ finish.

Tip: Order a few of these as shareable appetizers. The buffalo-balsamic combo is more interesting than standard wings.

Lem's Bar-B-Q

Chatham·$

Slab of Ribs

$25.00

A full slab of spareribs smoked over charcoal.

Tip: One slab feeds 2-3 people if you add sides—don't underestimate how much meat is here.

#496% recommend

Lem's Bar-B-Q

Chatham·$

Small Rib Tips

$12.25

The cut that made Chicago barbecue famous, smoked until they shred.

Tip: Order the small and large together to compare—most people say the larger is better value if you're hungry.

#596% recommend

Smoque BBQ

Irving Park·$$

Texas Brisket

$17.00

Oak and applewood-smoked brisket sliced thick, smoke-forward with minimal sauce needed.

Tip: Get the brisket, no questions. Order half a pound if you're solo, more if you're sharing.

#694% recommend

Lem's Bar-B-Q

Chatham·$

Large Rib Tips

$14.75

A bigger portion of the signature tips with the same vinegary smoke.

Tip: One large tips order is filling enough for lunch if you add a drink—no need for a second side.

#792% recommend

Honey 1 BBQ

Bronzeville·$

Rib Tips

$14.99

Hickory-smoked short rib ends with the restaurant's signature honey-forward sauce.

Tip: Order a large portion and bring cash—this is cash-only, but the ATM is right inside.

#891% recommend

Smoque BBQ

Irving Park·$$

St. Louis Style Ribs

$13.00

Memphis-style dry rub ribs, smoked over oak and applewood until tender.

Tip: Get a half slab each and share two sides—ribs and brisket is the dream team combo.

#988% recommend

Honey 1 BBQ

Bronzeville·$

Rib Platter

$17.99

Full slab of hickory-smoked ribs served with fries and slaw.

Tip: Get 2–3 of these if you're feeding more than two people—portions are generous but they disappear fast.