Uppercut Sandwich Co.

"The owners of Smoque BBQ, one of the best places for brisket and ribs in Chicago, opened Uppercut Sandwich Co. in Revival Food Hall. But instead of delicious barbecued meats, you can get sandwiches like mushy gray meatloaf slapped between thick challah slices, or a very tough piece of pork chop doused in mustard on a brioche bun. And while the slices of steak in their Italian beef have a good texture with the soft bread, they lack seasoning or spice. A meal here is fine in a pinch, but there are better options for lunch in the Loop." - Veda Kilaru

"Uppercut Sandwich Co., which is targeting a Monday, December 4 opening date, is replacing the Smoque location inside Revival Food Hall in the Loop. Barry Sorkin and company use trimmings from its Avondale restaurant, Smoque Steak, and then smoke and steam the sausage to recreate a hot dog from the 1930s. This isn’t a Chicago dog dragged through the garden. It’s served in between a thick-cut buttered roll. The roll resurfaces in Uppercut’s shrimp roll. Uppercut’s selections were designed as the afternoon menu at Smoque Steak. But management saw customers preferred to order off the dinner menu, so they pivoted and decided to bring their sandwiches to the Loop where they could revitalize their downtown location. The menu also includes a fancy smoked Italian beef and more — selections will rotate." - Ashok Selvam

"Uppercut Sandwich Co. is a new kiosk by Smoque BBQ offering premium cut sandwiches like shaved prime tenderloin and a tangy steak and brie with mushrooms, among others, set to open by mid-November after Smoque BBQ closes." - Ashok Selvam