Well, until I heard the "word on the street." There's an actual restaurant called Chicago q. Can you believe my luck?
In Chicago, "Q" is for Chicago q.
After 6 years of time served down south, I know a thing or two about barbecue. My expectations are high.
Chicago q (1160 N Dearborn, Near North Side) did not disappoint. We started our meal with complimentary chips and pickles and enjoyed every bite. Typically I'm not a sweet and sour pickle type of gal, but these were pretty delicious. They were perfectly tart and pleasantly crisp. My ribs were smokey and tender and tasted fantastic with sauce and without. Even more importantly, the portion sizes were so generous I had enough for lunch the next day!
The restaurant's interior is warm and homey with a healthy dose of chic. You're smacked in the face with the tummy-grumbling aroma of smokey goodness from the minute you walk through the front door. This is no sawdust-on-the-floor barbecue joint. Chicago q is a sophisticated smokehouse. It's modern, it's inviting, and it packs a gastronomic punch.
We enjoyed a casual dinner with friends - haaaaaave you met my friend Heather of Smart and Savvy? But I've also heard pretty epic tales of their prix fixe lunch menu. Monday through Friday from 11am until 4pm Chicago q offers a three-course lunch special. It's most definitely on my to do list.
