- BBQ
- Food: BBQ,
- Decor: Classy Southern
- Service: Friendly, Knowledgeable, Helpful
- Cost: $$
- Wine / Cocktails: Bourbon and Rye Whiskey
Overview:
Champion Chef Lee Ann Whippen's creations are absolutely mind blowing, even down to the "bread basket" of House-made Bread and Butter Pickles and BBQ Chips you receive at the start of your meal. Whippen's uses her father's original bbq dust on the many of her dishes including the chips. For lunch there is a terrific deal with an individual half appetizer, a main dish and side, as well as a dessert. Chicago q is the perfect place to stop in on a lunch break or during a day out in the city!
We were able to sample a number of different dishes on the menu and every single one was amazing. The Bacon Cheddar Hushpuppies were a spicy version of a classic southern dish with a very creamy mayo dipping sauce. I was in love with the BBQ Shrimp appetizer. The shrimps are all huge, topped with Whippen's family bbq dust, sitting on top of huge pile of delicious and citrusy lemon-infused grits.
With your main course, you get four very different types of BBQ sauce to flavor your amazingly lean meat. While they were all great, I adored the Easter North Carolina Vinegar Based sauce. It was perfect if you want something with a nice kick but that isn't too heavy. I would highly advise choosing the Poblano Cheese Cornbread as your side. It's nice and creamy with a very subtle spicy aftertaste. Of the extra sides, I would say the Bruleed Macaroni and Cheese is a must have. The Braised Greens with bacon bits are also delicious especially if you're more of a veggie lover.
Now, normally I pass on desserts but anyone in their right mind would be remiss to do that at Chicago q. While the Chocolate Mousse with Pretzel Crust was very light and the sweet and salty flavors complimented each other amazingly, I couldn't stop talking about the Mixed Berry Crisp for days. At first I thought the warm mixed berries were somewhat unusual but it was phenomenal and it was topped by granola pieces. This was my favorite part of the meal and is a seasonal dessert so get in quick!
Special Dishes:
Pulled Pork Sandwich, Poblano Cheese Cornbread, Mixed Berry Crisp, Bruleed Mac & Cheese, House Bacon Cheddar Hushpuppies, BBQ Shrimp and Lemon Infused Grits
