My fiance and I are scouting BBQ catering options for our wedding and Porky's was on the list. Not only was all the food excellent, but staff were helpful in answering questions and seemed invested in wanting to provide great service for our event. Honorable mention to the chicken drumsticks that had a sweet & savory dry rub, the mac & cheese, and all four of their sauces that made it hard to narrow down a favorite. read more

When my friend said we'd be catering BBQ for lunch last weekend, I was a bit skeptical. I've never really had good BBQ outside of Texas, so I didn't have high expectations for BBQ from the suburbs of Chicago. The catering came on time as expected, and the food was wrapped up tight and neat. We got to try both the sweet and spicy sauce, but I only got the sweet. It was perfectly sweet with a depth of spice that went well with all the meats. The meats we got to enjoy were the smoked slice brisket, smoked ribs, and smoked chicken drumsticks. While the smokiness wasn't Texas level, the brisket was incredibly tender and melted in my mouth. The ribs were fine, nothing to complain about. Sadly, I didn't really like the chicken, and even though it was dark meat, it was dry. There were also plenty of sides, salad, and veggies. The sweet potatoes were pretty soggy by the time we enjoyed them, unfortunately. However, the mashed potatoes were crazy buttery which meant it was crazy good. I kept going back for seconds and thirds, eating to my heart's content. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of BBQ at Porky's. Some things were just alright, but I'd definitely recommend the smoked beef brisket and mashed potatoes. read more

Not sure what happened since my initial review, but the quality has been taking a nose dive in my last few visits over the past year or so. While I noticed that the portion sizes seems to be bigger, the actual product is not nearly as good. The ribs, for example, come un-sauced (I could have sworn this wasn't the case in my first couple of visits) and instead are coated with an overly peppery rub. I think they're trying to go with a Texas-style, but it's WAY too heavy-handed to the point that you can only have a couple before your taste buds throw up the white flag. This is further complemented by the actual cook on my latest batch, which had no smoke ring and were extremely rubbery. The chicken was slightly better, though once again, was overcooked and not nearly as smoky as I've had in the past. Hoping these guys can right the ship, as this used to be some really solid BBQ. In its current state, however, I cannot recommend. read more

The smell inside is simply glorious, full of the smells of amazing smoked meat. They have a ton of old classic VHS tapes which is pretty cool, and the inside of the restaurant is small but has plenty of seating. I tried their pork belly burnt ends, and got the sweet bbq on the side. I didn't realize the burnt ends would come unsauced, which I kind of liked. I was able to add as much as I wanted. They're so delectably fatty, definitely getting those again. The hush puppies were great, and the sweet potato fries were just your average sweet potato fry. Overall a great little hole in the wall place! read more

We had a pulled pork sandwich and a combo pulled pork/brisket sandwich. We also had fried pickle chips. Everything was delicious! Service was great!! We'll be back! We also got to watch the Cubs game for a few innings! read more

I have heard a fellow mom at school mention Porky's BBQ more than once so I thought I would try it on a Friday where I just needed a protein to go with all of the leftover Thanksgiving sides. I pre-ordered two pounds of pulled pork to pick up after a full day of playing on a day off. When I arrived, I had to wait a bit because there was a walk in order in front of me--no worries. I do like the amount of sauce cups I got for my meat, I got to pick three. I picked Alabama White, Carolina Gold, and Classic. I liked that the meat was flavorful, but dinner companions found it to be either salty or peppery. It smelled really good, but wasn't quite what I was looking for. read more

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So far only been here for lunch a few times, I have been VERY happy with all that I have tried. Good lunch specials and it's a legit BBQ place, prices are reasonable and is clean. I have yet to do Catering or swing by for dinner. Worth stopping in, support a local business and have some yummy BBQ. read more

We ordered catering for my husband's 40th birthday this past week. First of all, they were super easy to work with. We had to switch the day due to rain, and they were very easy about it all. Secondly, everyone loved the food. We ordered a lot for the number of people (catering for 50 with 60 people at the party but half were kids), and it was almost all eaten by the end of the party. Thanks for everything! We will be ordering catering from here again in the future! read more

Great!!! Food. Service. Ambiance. Food. service. And ambiance. I liked the food. I liked the service. I like the ambience.

Food is AMAZING. Visited on Sunday and I still can't stop thinking about it. I ordered the half slab of ribs with spicy BBQ sauce, and they were incredible -- super meaty, tender, and packed with flavor. That spicy sauce had just the right kick without overpowering the smoky goodness of the meat. To top it off, the staff surprised me with a free apple cider donut, and wow -- warm, soft, and just the right touch of sweetness after the ribs. The staff was knowledgeable and friendly, clearly passionate about their food, which made the experience even better. Only thing I can say I wasn't the hugest fan of was the $8 cider drink I got. It was a personal choice though everything else 10/10 If you're a BBQ lover or just craving some seriously satisfying ribs, Porky's BBQ is a must. I'll definitely be back! read more

Porky's BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

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The Pig Sty Fries & Combo Pork & Brisket sandwich was finger lickin good !! Great service ! I would definitely recommend this spot ! read more

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Porky's has been around for a while and we finally got to try it for dinner. This is mostly a takeout spot but there are some small tables and counter areas to eat in. We took advantage of the buy 1 get 1 pulled pork sandwich and it was delicious. The bun itself was very tasty! The bun is sometimes an afterthought at BBQ places, but this bun was firm, delicious, and held up with all the meat and sauce piled on it. It was very savory too! We also tried the fried mushrooms, hush puppies, and slaw. All of the sides were great. The hushpuppies are a favorite of mine but not too common here in the Chicago area. These ones were exceptional! None of the fried items were greasy and all were cooked to a perfect crispness. We will be back!! read more

Excellent Food AND Service! We had a company event for about 65 people, and the team who helped us on the phone for this order were very friendly and helpful! We ordered trays of the Combo Pork & Brisket, Chicken, Cole Slaw and Mac & Cheese. We also received the Sauce Sampler too. Everything was absolutely FABULOUS. Seriously, there was nothing left and we always order more. So many people asked us where we got the food from and our staff is STILL talking about how delicious this was. We will definitely order from Porky's again. read more

Ambiance and service were great! I got the pulled pork and brisket combo sandwich (asked for the buns on the side) and made it a meal with cornbread and Mac and cheese and collard greens on the side. Pork was good, brisket was a little dry, cornbread also a little dry. Collard greens were good but too much flavor, I think a little more subtle would have been great. Mac and cheese was excellent!! I tried all of the sauces and the Carolina gold was my favorite of them all. read more

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I can't believe it took me so long to try Porkys! The food is delicious and reasonably priced. I love the different BBQ sauce offerings they have. They have both indoor and outdoor seating, it's a no frills type of spot. Highly recommend! read more

These people have no idea what real BBQ is! We had 1/2 lb of two meats that were both overcooked, dry and tasteless. No sauce was included with the meats and they didn't give us the extra sauce we ordered and paid for. This is the second time we ordered from Porky's, both awful. read more

I lived in the surrounding area for almost two years and never knew this places existed until this past weekend. I was glad I stumbled upon it while downtown. The service was great and the gentleman working the register was very nice. I thought the brisket had good flavor and was not dried out. Fries were fresh and seasoned well. My wife's ribs were also very solid. My favorite item of the whole meal was the beans. The flavor was excellent. I would love to return and try the pastrami sandwich. read more

Porky's BBQ - Smoked Prime Brisket Sandwich and Fries - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

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I work locally to this place and we come here for lunches all the time. I've never been disappointed and Im always excited to come back again. Love this place! Staff is super nice and the food is phenomenal!!! 15/10 read more

Had dinner at Porky's with the fam as we were in the area. Pretty good place! Portions were reasonable and food was fresh. Pricing is reasonable for a BBQ type place. We got the brisket, pulled pork sandwiches and parm fries as well as the pig sty fries. Tasty food, the fries came with cheese sauce and chunks of brisket which was enjoyed. Seating is limited but worked for us. Parking is free outside the establishment. Service was prompt. Would recommend! read more

Porky's BBQ - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

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Good suburban BBQ place. Nice people, good service. Interesting specials throughout the week.

Yum Yum Pork Fun! I do carry out from here just about every week and the food is consistently great! There's quite a bit on their menu to select from, including appetizers, interesting sides, plus desserts! The dining area is small and very casual, but comfortable enough. It's designed for the available space, more apt for a lunch stop, arranged with high top bar stool style seating and narrow counter-top type eating surfaces, seating is side-to-side. There are no formal tables or booths where you'd face each other, which is why I typically carry out. The staff is terrific and friendly. They are quite versed on the menu options and very willingly engage with you so that you make an informed decision. They have three different sauce options, and I enjoy them all equally. My wife always defers to the sweet which would be the safe, traditional selection :) Sometimes their "specials" sell out, so check ahead. All in all, it's a wonderful stop for BBQ. The meat is succulent, juicy and tender. It smells like Heaven and tastes good as Hell (: read more

I took my family here after taking my son to the park. It's a small place with stool seating, I'm not sure how long this place has been there but looks new. Had my 3 year old so seating wasn't the greatest for a child but he didn't fall or complain so it's whatever. Haha. Staff was cool, ordering was easy. We ordered Mac and cheese Pork belly burnt ends (sauce on the side) Fries Hush puppies Pulled pork sandwich Brisket/pulled pork sandwich. Since it was our first time we got a samples of all their sauces and they threw in some cornbread. First thing first, the food was hot. Which should be a no brainer but I've been to countless bbq joints and for some reason the Mac and cheese is always cool, or barely warm. Mac and cheese was creamy and hot, you can pick up subtle hits of garlic seasoning and whatnot. It wasn't THE BEST EVER but definitely enjoyable. Some paprika would've gone a long way, personal preference.) Fries, crispy and hot, fluffy inside. Perfect. Hush puppies, friggin' delicious my only gripe was that I PERSONALLY would like them a little bigger, but that's my opinion. Otherwise, flavor was great, crispy outside, soft fluffy inside. The sandwiches, both were good portions, soft bun and a tasty protein. Having a plethora of sauces on the side was a good move, I personally enjoyed the Alabama white sauce with some of the pork, but the spicy bbq and Carolina was pretty good on the brisket/pork combo sandwich.. Now, the pork belly burnt ends... fu@&, Soft, tender, with some bite, hint of sweetness, paired up with the white sauce and it was outstanding. I'll definitely be coming back with friends and family. read more

Porky's BBQ - the outside of the restaurant - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

Food was ok, but the problem had with OWNER. Refused to take coupon that he had in front of the store and then when challenged said "are you that hard up??" Swore and walked away. After spending over $50 this is how you treat *NEW* customers?? Never in my life have I been treated like that after spending over $50!! Then wife ordered brisket tamale's and not one piece of brisket in them but pieces of brat! TASTED OLD AND DRIED UP!! Reported them to the BBB and contacting credit card company for compensation. Very unprofessional unethical business ! Avoid! Owner doesn't care! read more

Great food and great people. Can't go wrong at this BBQ joint. Carved Turkey sandwich is a showstopper! read more

The quality of meats here is very fine. They do a lot of staples really well (e.g. ribs, pulled pork, brisket, smoked turkey) but a few very interesting things too, such as Thai-style pork belly burnt ends. Beans and fried pickles are my favorites among the sides. Somehow those pickles are still hot and crisp about 30 minutes after cooking. Sauces are sweet (A-, more vinegary than molassesey), spicy (B+), white, and mustard. It's too far from home to be a regular spot, but I find myself in the area on an errand about once a month. I like to pair up a visit here with Sweet T's Bakery up the block. If you're a healthy eater you'd call it a glorious cheat day, but for me it's just a Thursday. read more

Made my first visit here during Covid on a random weekend lunch visit. It was very easy to order from the menus on the walls after walking in and the lady working there was very helpful and friendly and explaining things especially the various sauces. Parking is street parking and there is a small lot directly behind this building as well. We ordered quite a few things and I am sharing only two photos as we order duplicates. Everything was super fresh quick and tasty however we were disappointed that we had ordered the white sauces and never got any of the white sauces. The pie was delicious and I believe there was a special for it as well for a buy one get one free. They have a menu of daily specials as well that is worth looking out. I would definitely come back here and try other items and make sure I get my white sauce before I leave and head home with it. read more

Porky's BBQ - Free-Range Half Chicken - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

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My main go to was Lily Q that was attached to the District Brew Yards but after over a year or more of them being there, they wound up leaving and I wasn't able to get the barbecue brisket I was looking for until I discovered porky's. This is the closest I could get to Lily Q. They also have a wonderful semi exotic barbecue menu as well, which I enjoy, and they're always adding new specials. A fave of mine was their duck sausage. However, no matter what I get, I always get a barbecue brisket sandwich. I highly recommend one if you haven't had one already. The service is always friendly, and the food is always fresh. The restaurants a little small but they do have some seating inside and seating outside as well when the weather is nice enough for it. read more

The employees were very nice and greeted us with a kind smile. We got some great recommendations and enjoyed the sandwiches, Mac and cheese, garlic fries, burnt ends. The place had a nice decor with tables inside and out, and they even let us take the remote and choose the football game we wanted to watch. Would highly recommend porkys. read more

Just tried Porkys for the first time. 10/10 on the food. We got the Pig-Sty fries and Bao Buns! Both were super tasty! Will for sure be returning! Best BBQ in the area! read more

We had 1 combo sandwich (brisket & pulled pork) & 1 brisket sandwich with sweet BBQ sauce. Very filling and good portion! Nice location also read more

Porky's BBQ - We got 1 combo sandwich & 1 brisket sandwich with sweet barbecue sauce - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

Great service, polite staff, even better food. Some of the best BBQ I've ever had. Would highly recommend to anyone in the area.

all BBQ places are good, but this one is above avg: nice menu, excellent food, good service, nice atmosphere. don't be fooled by the simple old school bldg: its upbeat & modern inside. why go to other rests when you can get awesome food here, wo even spending alot. read more

We had Porky's cater our YSSL assignor meeting.....Tim thought I was over ordering for 30 people with all the extras ..... he was wrong the food was amazing and very little leftovers! the catering package for 20-30 was the basic....pulled pork, Mac and cheese oh so yummy, cole slaw just the way I like it...nice and creamy..beans, salad, brats and sauerkraut.....plus to die for ribs, hush puppies, cornbread muffins, little pecan pies and apple cider donuts!! Absolutely out of this world food! The ribs and brats were the first to disappear along with the pecan pies and donuts....who thought to have dessert first? . We will order more ribs next time. Totally recommend Porky's for your next event!! Although you need to pay extra for the heating trays, they are top notch too!! The delivery Staff set up the food and gave us instructions, so nice! Luckily there was a small container of beans and some cornbread muffins for me to have for lunch today!! read more

Porky's BBQ - a table with food and drinks - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

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I tried their combo sandwich of pulled pork and brisket. The meat is so tender and the bread is good. The meat is on the salty side which I dont like but if u like salty then you will like it. The sauce is just OK. It was just a to go place when I went but the owner said that they will have dine-in soon. Only street parking available. read more

First time visit. We ordered the pulled pork family meal and added a salad and cheese curds. There were 7 of us and it more than fed us. Also, it was freaking amazing! Seriously, we had a grandma, several adults and kids and everyone was happy with their meal. Can't wait to visit again! read more

Greetings! Keeping in line with posting what I love, Porky's wins for BBQ in and around Arlington Heights. I've loved them for years as I knew them from their previous location in Chicago. I am so grateful that they are minutes from home. Everything here is BBQ done with care and respect for the process. Tangy and satisfying sweet sauce. A spicy sauce that's full of flavor and makes my forehead sweat. Perfect! Meats of great quality, portions that satisfy, and sides that fit right into the experience and are satisfying comfort food that works every time. A dish to behold is their Pig Sty Fries. A portion of fries with brisket, pork, or combo on top. A ladle of their killer beans, sauce, and nirvana. Ask for pickles and may I suggest their crunchy and cool slaw to round out your feast. Until next time...tk read more

Porky's BBQ - Pig Sty Fries. A great red goes great with BBQ. Yum! - Barbeque Near Me - Arlington Heights, Illinois

Great barbecue here and quick service. I love the smoked pastrami and the ribs are great

I had a problem with my order and Tim the owner stepped in and stepped up to solve it in an impressive and expeditious way. I understand why there are lines. read more

Great food at reasonable prices. The sampler is good way to taste a variety of selections. Definitely worth checking out! Friendly service!

Two reviewers that gave solid representations are Sherwin C. and Jason P. I read both of their reviews before visiting Porky's. I walked away with similar sentiments. There are only two BBQ joints in Arlington Heights. Maybe more, but these two pop up quickest in online searches. I had a nephew with me visiting from the Middle East. In his country pork is banned, so, naturally, he wanted to sample some ribs and get a taste of brisket. We went to Big Ange's eatery first but were told they were sold out of brisket! My nephew pleaded with me, "I want brisket, please Uncle." Which brings us to Porky's. Note: Porky's only offers ribs on weekends... psshaw! This is a no nonsense counter with BBQ foods. There are a few tables but not enough space for a group. 2-3 max for groups. There's not much to it. No personality, no branding, no signature. It's food on a plate with sauce applied and that's it. They could be offering their foods in a cafeteria that's how forgettable it was. A storefront unnecessary. I didn't see nor taste anything memorable or striking. The kid at the counter was just that. He's not making the experience memorable or hitting you with charm, he's taking an order. Operating out of downtown Arlington Heights is good. They don't have any nearby competition that could steal from their thunder. Our order: Pig-sty Brisket sandwich Pulled pork sandwich Corn bread Apple bread pudding. Last thoughts: It was nephew's first taste of brisket and he liked it. So thank you from Nohan's heart, Porky's. I wasn't as thrilled. Moisture was a component that was lacking in my choice of protein and corn bread. Food vs price was decent. If settling a taste for (any ol') BBQ, this may get it done. One and done for me. read more

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