I57 SMOKE HOUSE

Came way from Indiana.. bought 2 buckets.. nothing but bones.. VERY disappointed! Good service, decent “order out” space.. fast service but you all need a higher quality of meat. I spent $67.00 on basically a slab of ribs. I really hate to leave a bad review on a black owned business but it is what it is.. Taste was good, sauce was good.. my only complaint was all the bones.. I came for some meat. If it takes raising the price a bit then I’m willing to pay.. just don’t give me whatever is in the budget.

Worse experience ever I stopped in for two lunch specials got home open it up and what did I see a dead roach on the white bread I call spoke with Unique to bring both orders back and the young lady said that they can only replace the order that they don’t do refunds Never again Run don’t walk I’m a senior on fixed income I don’t have money to waste

I got food poisoning from turkey tips from the 1 next to Black Cat lounge ( small red building) . Turkey Tips were extremely salty, Seemingly boiled in salt, tasted freezer burnt & old. After consuming 1 after being completely turned off by the taste, i woke up the next morning with vomiting, diarrhea, profusely cold sweating, abdominal. pain & weakness. Upon calling the establishment and speaking with the " manager" Brittany, I was refused a refund but offered more food in place of my original order. Brittany stated she was the only person in management that I could report this to. Brittany also stated that the owners don't deal with customer relations nor operations because they live out of town. I was ill for 2 weeks with abdominal discomfort, gastric / colon inflammation under medical care. Typically I give businesses the benefit of the doubt but this is serious & could be life or death. Be aware. They have been in the news previous and still operate under the same health department identified issues. The restaurant names definitely in such close proximity due to the quality of food.

I'm annoyed and upset by what happened to me recently. I expected the turkey tips I purchased for my family's Thanksgiving dinner to be tasty and well-prepared for the more than $100 I paid. Regretfully, it was not at all what I got. The turkey tips were really dry, overdone, and just not that good. It was clear that the preparation was not done with much care. This meal was a total disappointment, even though it was meant to be a special one to share with my family. I anticipated much more quality and attention to detail for the money I spent. It was intended to be a component of a holiday celebration, not simply a meal, yet this dish fell short in all respects. No one should have to go through this kind of disappointment, particularly over the holidays, so I hope the restaurant takes my comment seriously. Unless significant adjustments are done, I won't be going back and I don't suggest this place.

Ordered there yesterday afternoon. That was my first time there. The rib tips were very tough n dry I was disappointed 🤦🏽‍♂️. And I got sick a few hours later. Definitely should have looked up the reviews before I went. It’s So many 1 star reviews it’s crazy 😂😂. Try the other one across the street and wish it luck. But don’t go to this one 😂 💯

Got to get those turkey ribs lunch special extra sauce lemon and black pepper. Their food is always better when they first open. Take your receipt and get a discount cocktail next door. I hate that giant ghetto glass + microphone they got going on. Take out orders only.

This is the worst of the worst. I would not recommend this place to my worst enemy. Ordered two dinners with Turkey Tips… what we got was fat, bones and sauce. I 57 Smoke House should be ashamed of themselves and close the doors. I have never seen so so so many pieces of fat and bones drenched in sauce. I don’t even think these were turkey….some sort of fatty tails. We threw the entire dinner in the trash, where it belongs. If @Keith Lee is ever in Chicago again, I will have him put I57 Smoke House on blast —negative review blast. Again, shame on you, i57 smoke house.

When the food is made properly and NOT BURNT its delicious. The customer service is thumbs down at i57Smokehouse. OPEN THE CONTAINER & CHECK YOUR FOOD BEFORE YOU LEAVE to make sure it's not burned to a crisp like my links were. The other location is better (i57 Ribhouse across the expressway) and more professional with customer service, they just don't have the smoke pit. The sauce is great, they should bottle it and sell it in stores! The turkey tips are actually turkey tails at the Smokehouse so all you will have are bones and gristle, everyone complains about that BUT if you go to the other location (Ribhouse) theirs are nice meaty cuts of turkey, you will enjoy that better if you can deal with it not being wood smoked. Smokehouse no longer takes phone orders (is how they answer the phone) and the Ribhouse has had me on hold for almost an hour now on my other phone as I'm trying to reach (for the 2nd time) the 1 actual professional GM I spoke to about this burned food situation when it happened the ither day. Cook your own food 🤷🏽‍♀️

I canceled my 40 dollar order because of the extremely nasty attitude of the person taking my order.

IT WAS THE WORST!!! I hadn't been there since Covid. I thought they had closed for good. I found out they were open. So I went for the 4th of July. The wait was long, ok I get it, it's a holiday. The food, I was so disappointed and livid. I live an hour away. When we got home and opened the bag, the portion size was so small but paid for the largest size. It was nothing but bones and sauce. Barely any meat. Almost nothing! It's nothing fancy on the inside. Just a bbq joint.

I went to I57 smoke house for lunch today. I ordered a small Turkey tip.. I'm at work about to eat...so I thought... I opened it only to see these large things that look ribs...and they were tough to chew. I called location, spoke to "Derrick" who states he's the General Manager, but is unable to make things right. I ask for the store owner.. this fool said the store owner only comes into the store between March & June, and he's unable to give me his name or contact info. It's always a disappointment trying to support black businesses. #I57smokehouse

otherwise known as I-57 Smokehouse across from the longtime veteran, I-57 Rib House that used 2 b good well.. it was an exciting day as we decided 2 do a taste test by getting ribs here 2 go n comparing it 2 another competitor.. competitor's identity kept secret.. this place won; although, it had a honey taste 2 the bbq sauce, it was more meaty n tender Also, I got 1 question Yelp.. can't u add that 1/2 star rating 2 ur reviews? b/c I don't feel this place is necessarily 4 star like I'm a fan.. it is more like it's between ok n good Chank Q

I just wish I could have gave No stars , You will Regret buying ribs from this place my ribs looked like Pulled Pork , They gave us 2 orders of Scraps , Old meat and wasn't seasoned, Hot Garbage!

I'm gonna give this awesome review with my fingers crossed that my great experience with this place lasts. I've returned after soso food from Best BBQ. Previously, the service was subpar and the ribs were slightly edible. Fast forward to now: this may be Chicago's best rib place. I've been twice within the last month and the ribs are tender down to the last morsel. The customer service is great in-person and over the phone. Recently someone asked me where to get good barbecue and I stated, "I don't know anyplace consistently good." That is, until now. Best BBQ also has I-57 Smokehouse on their signage to make sure you're in the right place. The hot links are the best ever. I hope this great food and excellent service continues because I've told everyone to try Best BBQ.

This was once my go to spot for BBQ. The name needs to be changed to Worst BBQ. I purchased a full slab of fat for $26.99. Never again, I'll get in the back yard and make them myself (in the snow) from now on!!

Don't waste your time going I57 Smokehouse BBQ. The rib tips are tough, unchewable and burned. I will have to throw my food in the garbage .. Called, and spoke to rude Nick, when I placed my order. He will hang up on you. I had to call back. Called couple of days later, still trying to eat this tough mess. He told me he was sorry. I wonder what sorry do. He will give me a discount on my next order. But on this $16.53 order, I guess too bad. No adjustment. Why would I buy anything from them again. Spoke to Nick again. Prices on the menu online is not correct.

I come here for the hot link sandwich. Get it with hot and mild sauce. As far as food is concerned, it's delicious. Let's get something straight: When you order a hot link you're really not concerned with your health. Anyway, the average rating results from the wait time. It's not a matter of preparing the food fresh it's a matter of incompetence on the employees' part. You might wait 10-15 minutes for food that's already cooked and just needs to be packaged.

Best BBQ/I57 I JUST spent $28.00 on a full slab of ribs. Mistake this slab had been boiled not cooked on the grill. Wouldn't recommend this place to no one .

Where do I begin? Upon initial arrival, I was confused; there are two different business names advertised. There are several signs that read "Best BBQ," and there are even larger signs that read "I-57- Smokehouse." That was the first indication that something wasn't right. I ignored, and proceeded into the establishment to order. I found it slightly odd that there were no other customers, this I also ignored. I ordered a mini rib tip lunch combo, which included a pop. After receiving my ticket number/receipt, I patiently waited for my order. While waiting, I decided to read other Yelpers' reviews. Had I done this prior to entering, I would not have stayed. There were NO positive reviews! Strike Three! I can't turn back now, because I've already ordered. I tried my best to remain optimistic, and not allow other reviews to discourage me. After receiving my food, I left. The presentation of the food was good. Unfortunately, the quality was not. The rib tips were very fatty, and the little meat I did have was tough. I was highly disappointed considering I had a taste for rib tips. On a positive note, the sauce was good. *As a consumer that rarely carries cash, I was also appreciative of the cashier asking to see my ID for a debit/credit card.

Disappointed! I wish it tasted as great as it smelled. We ordered ribs both mild and hot and they were swimming in sauce. Considering the price I expected a much better dish. I will not return as I know there is much better options out there for ribs.

This newly remodeled restaurant looks good. Too bad food quality did not match facade of building.' C zz c C . Do NOT waste your time or money, this is n. ot the same I57 Ribs of yester-year. This is a front for something else. Food is horrible!!!!!

If I couuld give them 0 star, I would. The chicken, the sauce, fries, and tips were ALL horrible! Just throw the entire restaurant in the garbage. How do you mess up french fries? I haven't been here is years, usually I eat at I-57 but they were closed today. I will never make that mistake again. Now my stomach hurts

Went here for lunch after hearing they had Turkey tips. Well... I don't know what they were but they were unmercifully hard and cold as were the fries. If you tell me they'll be ready in ten min and I'm ten min away, then why is my food cold??? They made sure the bag was warm though. Had the nerve to drench/ drown unrecognizable meat and fries in sauce! After wiping sauce off of meat I noticed there was a yellowish tinge in some areas and also very dark and hard. I'm no expert in the FDA but I do have a food sanitation license and know enough to label this food as old and should have not been served!!! $12.12 for old food . Thanks for nothing. I should have ignored my hunger pains.

Do not go here. They've been shut down a few times for E. coli. Save yourself!! Go to Lem's.

Food is really good, but their customer service is HORRIBLE! If you're looking for "service with a smile," don't come here. Left up to the food alone, I'd give it a 3.5. But with the service, I would give it 2.5 stars. Calling in your order is the best thing to do if you don't want to wait the 15-25 min for your order in the lobby. If they can improve their customer service, I'd reconsider returning to the restaurant. Until they do, I won't be going back.

Just ok. Prob wouldn't go back. Sauce was tasty but the fries tasted like they were left over fries and fried again for my order. The tips were a hit or miss. Some prices were dry and hard, some decent, and some were mostly fat. Portions were big though.

Horrible boiled then grilled taste or old meat. Order a bucket of tips and every piece was literally flat end or bone end as if I was given the scraps of spare ribs. OVERPRICED far as TASTE and presentation I wouldn't mind paying $30 for a bucket of tips from across the street at the real I-57......this place is obviously placed and likely named to confused people because they have the same prices.

I get home to Chicago every couple of years and I usually go here first. I recently visited for an impromptu gathering for my Mom's birthday. I tried to order a pan and was told there wasn't enough time left to put an order that size together, even though, they would not be closing for another 7 hours. The young lady at the counter was nice-nasty and answered my questions sarcastically. When I mentioned it inside the party several people agreed the quality of the food as well as the customer service has changed drastically. This is why it is difficult to patronize neighborhood businesses too often.

HUGE Disappointment! I have been hearing good things about this place, so I drove over from Indiana. Waste of time, gas and money. Inedible. Scraps. Hard, burnt, chewy.

My aunt bought a mini tip from this place last week. The food was terrible. It tasted like it had been boiled then placed on grill. She called back to the restaurant and informed them the dissatisfaction she experienced. We know good bbq, our family owed 2 bbq restaurants. She felt it was a waste of her money and will NOT be returning.

Ordered the turkey tip and link combo. Worst meal I've ever eaten. Each tip was all fat and gristle or whatever you wanna call it not an ounce of meat on the bone. Waste of money I'll never try this place again. You shouldn't either.

This review goes strictly for the ribs. Also ordered the wings which would get about a one. Ordered a slab of ribs which came separated in half smothered in tasty sauce and a couple of slices of white bread with surrounding fries. The sauce was not overpowering and the smoke was just right-the whole family loved. Definitely will go back here for the ribs again. Next time probably will ask for the sauce on the side and also a combination of the mild and hot.

Always good an dont have to wait a long time too get your order had lunch special tip &link combo with mild sauce

The name should change to worst bar b que. the rib tips tasted as if they were boiled and the sauce was watered down we also bought a hot link dinner which was burnt never wil I spend another dime in this place.

Don't EAT HERE, the worst place in The City of Chicago for bbq. Expect a trip to the ER for food parasites. I called the city inspectors on this establishment.

Ribs taste like they were boiled and then smothered in bbq sauce. Taste like old Christmas Pork Roast. Need to change their name from Best to Not So-Best. Sad to say, but they Lost their touch.

Word of mouth goes a long way. Was talking to a client who expressed how she couldn't wait to get home to enjoy the BBQ that she had gotten. I asked where did she go and she mentioned (while raving about) this place. Since it's in a convenient location, I wanted to give them a try. Battle competition with I-57 rib house being right down the street. I went on 12/18. It's a small place with limited parking as they share lot space with a club lounge. Came in and there was a small line in front of me. Ordered the large rib tip, mild sauce and waited. Friendly staff. By the time it was time for me to leave, it was packed in there, folks standing and sitting. You KNOW food is good seeing traffic like that! What I liked is that even though there a good amount of people inside and there before me, I didn't have to wait long for my food. Big kudos for that. When I opened the bag to the rib tips, boy was I happy. Huge portions and the tips were meaty with very little fat. Great flavor and sauce! You've just gained a new customer. Can't wait to go back and try other items on the menu.

Basically everything on the menu is really yummers (Word I made up lol)!!! I haven't eaten here in over a year because the service sucks so I just took my business across the street to I57 Rib House (Yummers) ... Then what recently finalized me NEVER in Life eating at this establishment was "ABC Chicago News" reporting how the restaurant was closed down AGAIN due to several people becoming sick. The article stated the restaurant had numerous sanitation citing... *yuck* ... I notice the restaurant is now back open but I wouldn't dare trust it!!

I just left Best ...20 minutes ago. .. when I get home I saw that my order was incorrect mind you I live about 20 minutes away I call back best barbecue and told the person that they gave me the wrong order meanwhile in the background somebody said some very harsh words about me returning the order I heard them and the lady who answered the phone didn't even want to repeat the work so she asked if I would like to speak to the manager I said yes I will come to find out it was the manager who had said those harsh words he immediately trying to defend himself saying that he was talking to somebody else I told him that he was very unprofessional. He asset come on lady I don't have time for this what you going to do I was very apprehensive and even taken the time to return my order even get get another order from him I will not be patronizing disestablishment anymore.

Terrible food!! I got some rib tips it started out food and ended bad. They mixed new meat with old meat. It was sour it was gross it was very porky. I became sick after eating the food from here I won't ever be back!! Waste of money and time I57 is wayyy better

I enjoy eating here and even when I reheat my BBQ it's still good including the fries.

Never ever will I go here again... Sauce not good, wings hard and very small which by the way do not come with bread and fries... Tips were meatless..... Worse ever.. Only went there because I-57 was close for Easter.. I will go without next time...

I ordered my food through Uner eats food came on time but food was horrible after spending $20.73 For a large Rib combo. Ribs were not cooked very tuff my 80yr old grandmother can't even chew it. If a child would've eaten one they would've chocked. I'm very disappointed

When this barbecue is tender, it's actually pretty good. I like a little more sauce than they usually use, but the meat is seasoned well and the sauce is tasty. I've also had their chicken wings with mild sauce that are also good. I recommend placing your order over phone to avoid the long lines that are often there. The prices are a little on the higher side in comparison to comparable rib places, but the portions are reasonable.

Run..... away as fast as you can!!!!! Nasty rotten MEAT, sauce and Fries is why I gave 1 STAR. Meat had to be old, Sour shocking...I started to go to 157...across the street. Sorry they messed it up for them as well. Lazy in unsymaptic buyer, cook on a Friday night!!!! HOW could you serve ribs to the public like this. I Been on the LABTORY SINCE LAST NIGHT. Pain in my belly followed by Diarrhea. You should CLOSE FOR GOOD.

The food here is so delicious, the sauce is so tasty, its sweet and tangy and rich, i just love it. The meat is so tender and the place is always crowded, so you know the food must be excellent. I suggest you phone first, but they dont have menus that you can take with you. When I come I always get small tip and chicken wings. The service needs a little work, its kinda hood. They have cleaned up the inside and installed a tv, good job.

Short version the customer service sucks ass but the food makes up for it ... Who ever cooks on fridays n Saturday's usually isn't as good as the cook for the rest of the week I have noticed. But overall the food is good, I usually come during the week for the aforementioned reason. I get the wing n link combo with mild. The tips, wings, links, n fried catfish have never disappointed me... been coming here since 2000 ish

I only went there on Monday jun 6 because I 57 barbecue was close.I should have known not to eat there when I got there there was no cars in the parking lot the food was awful the ribs tips was fat and bones greasy and the fries was not done.Will never buy there again..

Great ribs. I grew up in the area but have relocated to China with my wife but once in a while when I come back to the US I make it a mission to come here for ribs. I have never had so good. Just remember to call first. They stay crowded and they cook fresh to order. Usually a 30 minute wait but that is fine. That is about my drive time from my hotel on the north side.

I ordered turkey tips and they gave me pork, not once but twice they messed up my order and when I asked for a refund the young man at the window said they didn't give refunds. They would only be able to exchange the food. Not very apologetic about messing up the order went and tried to show me a pork tip which what was in the box I brought back. Trying to support the black owned business in the neighborhood. NEVER AGAIN very poor customer service

Awful! Not the first time I called my order in and when I get there to pick it up, they have NO clue about my order and tell me "We don't know what happened to your order but we can have it ready in 15min" Very tacky customer service!

Best Bar B Q has it's good days and bad days, I don't go as much as I use to because I found myself always having to say no scraps and the customer services is weak at best. If I don't say no scraps it seems like I get a bag full of bones. The customer service is no where near what you would expect when your paying top prices. The food is really good I have no problem with the food. Just the customer services and the person giving you bones just to get you out the door faster. This is after you have waited a good 15 to 20 minutes on your food. In short they get 3 out 5 because they need to teach their staff about customer service and and giving out quality food and not just bones. If you don't believe me put it to the test next time you go ask for no scraps then the next time don't ask it's going to make a world of difference. Best Bar B Q has not yet realized that the customer experience is just as important as the taste if not more important. If you have a bad experience you have no problem sharing it will anyone willing to listen and with the internet and the customer having the ability to write reviews, well it just make sure you have a quality product and a nice end user experience. Don't take my word for it, check it out for yourself after all this is my experience. -Willie

My friend went to the restaurant on 9-18-18 and purchased a meal. He's been vomiting ever since. It's not clean and sanitary. The food isn't being handled properly. The city needs to look into this. Very disappointed. Won't EVER get my business.

Ima b real. 157 has the best sauce. Best bbq has the best rib tips hands down. Soft and succulent like a grandma made them. Omg. I'm 29 and have had hella ribs in my day. These tips are tender and meeeeeaty.

Worst barbeque I've had in my entire life. The food was so overcooked, old, and dried out that it was inedible. I ended up feeding this overpriced trash to some cats.

This is no longer "Best BBQ" it was bought by I57 Rib Hoouse and is thus renamed I57 Smokehouse. The mildly sweet sauce has been replaced with I57's hot tangy sauce that they literally douse the meat in. I honestly had enough sauce left to fill at least a 16oz bottle. Sadly, the good ol' days of best bbq is no more than a fond memory.

Been here several times. Tips, Links sauce usually very good & tasty. Usually always crowded, but reasonably fast service. Expect 20 minute wait, a little faster if call in.