It feels like sacrilege to say the best barbecue in Chicago does not come out of a homegrown aquarium smoker built to perform indoors during our harsh winters. But if it’s any consolation, a lot of the best barbecue in the South is no longer smoked in a pit. Cooking methods aside, ribs don’t lie. You’ll be hard pressed to find a better rack of baby backs then these from chef-owner James Sanders (pictured below, on the right) and pitmaster Nick Kleutsch (on the left). Tingly with spice, pink with smoke, and offering that resistant tug at the bone, these ribs deserve the highest compliment you can bestow on barbecue, which is that it doesn’t need sauce. The short rib, juicy and tender, may even be better. While the brisket and pulled pork can sometimes be a bit dry, the side dishes seal the deal. Do not go home without a slice of the caramel-glazed sweet potato cornbread.

Price: $
Address: 1742 W. 99th St.
Website: sandersbbqsupply.com