Smoke Daddy

3.8 (1.6k reviews)

ModerateBarbeque, Music Venues

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Smoke Daddy - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Smoke Daddy - Pulled Pork Sandwich - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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SMOKE DADDY ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?

Inside

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Outside

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Live music

Moderate noise

Casual

Dogs allowed

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Amisha R.

Smoke daddy always hits the barbecue checkpoints and is my go-to for good brisket. With a variety of different bbarbequed and smoked meats, sides, and appetizers it's a great spot for a group of an intimate dinner with close friends because it'll get messy. The service is fast and polite, with good knowledge of the menu and alcohol selection. Lots of tvs so good for game or a Sunday brunch with their brunch menu.

Trung V.

Smoke Daddy is more of a last resort for me in Wicker Park. For me, BBQ in Chicago has always been a hit or miss. I'm not saying BBQ can't be done well up here, but I've learned to keep low expectations after my time visiting Texas. Overall, food was okay and I appreciated the platter option including my choice of two meats. The cause of the low rating was the brisket, which came out extremely dry and cold - lacking all the charms of what makes brisket my favorite in the first time.

The $69 platter. Fed 3 guys. It could have probably fed a 4th if they had a smaller appetite.

Jim U.

We came in for brunch which isn't served on the weekdays. I don't remember seeing that anywhere but may have missed it. Servoce was good. Food came out reasonably fast. It tasted decent overall. I wouldn't say it was the best but it wasn't dry. The pulled pork wasn't pulled but was probably the best thing I tasted. Brisket was good. The ribs were a bit embarrassing. Very little meat and over charred. Tasted good tho. we got the $69. Taste of daddy's platter or whatever it's called. It fed 3 easily. 4 would probably be fine too. The sides were kinda small for a family tray like that. They add a 3% fee to the bill. They advertise this in small print, but to me this is just misrepresenting prices. I'm not a fan of this practice.

Denise M.

Best bar in Chicago! Big shout out to Ruben who made our visit here so much fun! Made our start of a Saturday a great one!!

Maddie H.

Great spot! BBQ is good but my favorites had to be the smoked wings, hush puppies, Cole slaw and corn bread! I'm such a sides girly and they do a really great job. Service was quick and nice and the place definitely feels like a BBQ spot with a more chill vibe. We'll definitely be back for brunch!

Elgin B.

This was my first time at Smoke Daddy. It was warm, so sitting outside was perfect. The ambiance was a bit loud, but it wasn't unbearable. The wait staff was very knowledgeable and accommodating. The food was solid. We got plenty of food to share: beef ribs and chicken. The cornbread was fluffy; I loved all the different Barbecue sauces. Everything was good even the Mac and Cheese. The only Thing that doesn't give it 5 stars is personal taste. Being from St.Louis I had a deep love for bbq and compared its a level of crispy and taste that smoke daddy didn't quite hit. Based on my first experience and personal taste, I give Smoke Daddy a solid 3 1/2 of 5

Magaly O.

You can't go wrong with smoke daddy, the barbecue is legit and the sauces are amazing. Andrew was our server and he was super attentive and went out of his way to make sure we enjoyed our visit. They also have great happy hour specials.

Oscar B.

The food was great; I had a brisket sandwich. It was enough to fill a hungry belly. The staff were nice and prompt. The vibe is standard BBQ sports bar. I would go back. Bloody Mary's are great as well.

Johnfavour N.

I had a great date night at smoke daddy, and was pleasantly surprised by their happy hour that runs until 7pm. I love that they offer beers on tap from Perch brewery, the kick, push hazy IPA is my fave. I got a boiler maker ($4 beer +$2 tequila shot) since there was a happy hour deal. The smoked chicken wings were half off for happy hour, and they were incredible. They were so tender and came right off the bone, and had so much flavor with the sauce. The taste of the daddy with baby back ribs, burnt ends, Cole slaw, and sweet potatoes fries hit the spot. The sweet potatoes fries tasted like churros since there was a hint of cinnamon. The baby back ribs were really tender. The burnt ends were delicious and tender as well. The BBQ sauces were solid, nothing mind-blowing but still good. The surprising standout dish was the cole slaw, the dressing had a nice cilantro taste and it's made fresh to order. The vibe was chill sports bar. Almost cafe-esque since the music was quiet and you could hear the murmurs of other patrons chit-chatting, which I enjoyed. It was surprisingly populated for a Wednesday night, but did not need a reservation for two. They have a double door entrance, and we were able to be sat all the way inside, which is great for winters because you don't get a cold blast whenever the entrance door is opened. Your hair and/or clothes may smell like BBQ afterwards. Also shout out to our server Heron, who was super friendly and walked us through all the happy hour deals.

Hakeem L.

Daniella was super prompt and helpful. She recommended tasty things on the menu and I greatly enjoyed the food. Can't wait to come back

Deanna S.

I live in the neighborhood and want to like this restaurant but it always disappoints. The service is consistently bad and rude. Went there because the hash browns are good but they said they were out of them on a Sunday brunch time when not that busy. Then he came out to say they had one left but then 10 mins later came back and said they don't have them and he was wrong. No apology just asked what else we wanted. Wasted time here and still left without eating. Won't come back.

Jenny T.

Walking into the place, you can tell it's casual but in an all-American BBQ-themed way. I ended up getting the Daddy-O sandwich, which had brisket and a stacked onion ring. The brisket could've been a bit more moist, but I did come on a Sunday evening. Aside from that, the staff were accommodating and checked on our party regularly, which is always appreciated!

Dorothy S.

I've been here for lunch and for brunch and I liked both, but liked the brunch a bit more. We added an egg to the pulled pork nachos and they were *chefskiss. Also got a yummy side salad, corn bread (comes w some sort of maple butter), and Mac n cheese. All the food was very tasty. They also have an awesome brunch deal that you can get w bottomless drinks and food, it seriously looked like such a good deal, I'd highly recommend that deal if you were lookin for a Sunday funday. They also have lotsa TVs, playing all the different games. Their patio area is usually Open air in the summer and closed off in the colder months. Service is always fine. Parking over here on division is always tough, just a heads up!

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Keneshia B.

Elite 26

183

285

287

8 years ago

Some friends and I stopped by Smoke Daddy one late night after a concert in Wrigleyville and was pleasantly surprised! The ambiance was awesome. There was a live band covering many popular songs, and they were pretty good. We walked right in and were immediately seated at the bar. Our server was so very sweet and attentive. She helped make the night. The menu is not huge, but there was plenty to choose from. I opted for the cheeseburger (I know - who goes for bbq and orders a burger) and hubby ordered the half rib slab. Everything came out delicious! The ribs were great, tender and seasoned well. We also were surprised at how tasty the sweet potato fries and mac and cheese were! This place definitely exceeded my expectations and I wouldn't hesitate to stop in again if I'm ever in the area. read more

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Josh R.

Thank you for the wonderful review Keneshia! So glad you enjoyed your…

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Andrea B.

6 years ago

This was it for $20?! What a rip-off, plus my order was delivered almost an hour late! I pass this place all the time and thought I should give it a try. I guess I can just keep driving by it, this was a waste. read more

Smoke Daddy - Chicken and Brisket combo - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Josh R.

Andrea, we appreciate the feedback and hate to hear that your…

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Angry P.

2 years ago

fantastic Easter brunch meal served by our waiter Ivan. Clutch green sauce on hush pups.

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Josh R.

So glad you enjoyed! We love Ivan! Hope to see you back soon :)

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Guadalupe P.

Elite 20

495

183

117

6 years ago

What an experience! I ordered thanksgiving catering for pick up. Pros about pick up: 6ft distance applied for people picking up, only a few patrons were in at a time. Everyone chose their pick up time. The wait to get your order was short. They went through your order with you, and showed you every item. Everything was neatly packaged and packed. They also included reheating instructions. Cons: I walked in the wrong door. I wish they had a sign with an arrow that said thanksgiving pick ups thru the other door, but honestly that was my bad. Can't wait to have all the tasty food now! read more

Smoke Daddy - Flawless pickup experience - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Josh R.

Thank you, Guadalupe! We appreciate your support.

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Benjamin B.

2 years ago

Came in for the beans, and ended up getting a couple cocktails at the bar, Colleen was wonderful and hilarious and made my drinks fast and tasted fantastic. read more

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Bernardo A.

Elite 26

165

365

16 years ago

I ended up here by chance, in a sense. My friends and I originally set out to go to Kumas Corner and because the wait was 2 hours long, we were not amused. We planned on perhaps 45 minutes but not 2 hours. Screw that! We were getting hungry! The Smoke Daddy did not disappoint. There was a nice crowd but we got served as soon as we walked in . Literally, the staff was finishing up wiping down what would become our booth as we walked in. Very cool! The ambiance was very nice. Very casual comfortable and the air was potent with tasty, smoky and delicious aromas! I was getting pretty "tingly" as I was contemplating pulled pork as soon as I saw it on the menu! Mmmm... So, I almost went with a sandwich and two sides... then I saw the nachos platter and a choice of two meats! Mmm... Nirvana! I stuck with my original taste for pulled pork and chose brisket for my second meat. What a treat! The nachos were loaded with fixings that were tasty albeit almost borderline thrifty. Cheese, cilantro, onion, diced tomato, barbecue sauce and toasted chips echoed traditional nachos (well, minus the bbq sauce). The meat was soooo good! Juicy, succulent and just tasty all the way around. My two meat choice was perfect! It gave me more than a good idea as to what a "dedicated" sandwich with either meat would taste like! The portion was decent (although, for the price, I would have expected a little more - a quibble but not one to lower the star rating). My side was coleslaw and it was quite tasty! I have to say that I was looking forward to trying because I like the coleslaw at Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe also but wondered how TSD's would measure up. I have to say I like them both. My friends had a rib sampler plate, I think is what it was. It looked very tasty! I tried the sweet potato fries that they ordered and I have to say that I was shocked that it was kind of good. Truth be told, I hate sweet potatoes but those fries were not bad at all. My friends really enjoyed them! The waitress started off as someone I liked but it changed towards the end for a couple of reasons. Her personality was great and she was very helpful when it came to answering questions and giving us great assessments of the food. The downside came when she didn't come back to ask about refills on drinks. I mean, really? This is a basic of good waitress and server procedure. I swear, every time she started to look in my direction, she turned away. Diet soda quota exceeded after one glass! Ugh. I know next time what to expect and I will be a stickler in that department! I look forward to going back and trying out some other dishes! I am glad Kuma's had such a ridiculous wait or else I would never have been introduced to this place! B read more

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Brent W.

Elite 13

121

1074

1116

6 years ago

This update is long overdue and Smoke Daddy is - and has been for many years since 2008 review - back in my BBQ good graces. The inconsistency and frequent changes of the past, is just that, in the past. They keep things simple and that's just fine, high marks for the tasty pulled pork, chicken, and ribs. Highest marks are the burnt ends (get the burnt ends Nachos!) BBQ baked beans and last but not least....drum roll...the Pimento Cheese Hush Puppies. Oh my those things are divinely drool-worthy!! Their house made BBQ sauces are all great but the winner for me - and possibly my favorite in all Chicago BBQ sauces - is their "Hot". So good! Great specials t.o the week too so check their website. read more

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Bridget B.

2 years ago

Perfect place to brunch on the weekends. Such good deals and service. Metzli, thank you so much

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Josh R.

Thanks for the review, Bridget! Come back soon!

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Michael B.

2 years ago

I've been to a lot of bars in the city. I gotta tell you first impressions is everything to me. I normally just put the vibe out at the bar. I had a bartender Emily, who is phenomenal by the way, she was smart and I can tell she is passionate about her job. The rest of the staff was completely friendly food was great and I would highly recommend this place. read more

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Jackie S.

2 years ago

Highly recommend the southern limeade bell and the pulled meat nachos! The service is great and the food is great!

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Josh R.

Thanks for the 5-star review and awesome recommendations, Jackie!

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rick b.

379

5 years ago

Great spot by the ballpark. BBQ, beer and live music. What more could you need?! Chose the smoked meat selection, pork and Brisket , bbq beans, and corn bread. Will definitely make this a home location for visits to Wrigley Field read more

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Maricar T.

Elite 21

213

160

585

8 years ago

The veggie burger I got was pretty tasty and filling. Tasted much better with BBQ sauce slabbed on it though. My side choice? The cornbread and it was kind of bland. This place gets only three stars because of the service. I get it: Lunch rush on a Saturday can get hectic. The hostess that seated us seemed annoyed when my friend asked for a booth (since there were 3 of them open) so not sure what the problem was. Curse my observant eye! The waitress we had wasn't attentive with us. We also weren't being served water throughout our meal. Everyone's experience is different! My lasting impression here is that if you like dogs, then you'll be dog watching during your entire meal when it's nice out. Otherwise, nothing left to say. read more

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Josh R.

Maricar, thank you for sharing your feedback with us. I am so sorry…

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Brittany E.

Elite 24

150

8 years ago

BBQ pulled pork nachos were pretty good. TONS of food. Should have split it with someone. It was layers of chips, meat, a meat and bean chili, cheese, onion, cilantro, and pico. Maybe a little too much bean chili... but good spice. The Moscow mule I had was good, but not super strong. Service was okay. The live music was great. read more

Smoke Daddy - BBQ pulled pork nachos. SOO much FOOD! - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Kevin M.

335

4 years ago

Probably some of the worst bbq in the city, I mean the sides where alright but I was there for the meat, the brisket was like rubber and ot was cut super thin. Honestly wouldn't bother spending money there again read more

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Alli M.

2 years ago

the food is always amazing and service is incredible - definitely worth a stop in whether you're visiting or live in Chicago

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Josh R.

Thanks for the kind words, Alli! We hope to see you again soon!

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Tushar B.

Elite 24

198

676

8 years ago

Smoke Daddy's ribs are very delicious, leaving your mouthwatering for more of that tender, juicy barbecue meat. They also make some solid chicken wings as well! My partner and I met a couple of friends here on a Thursday evening to celebrate their dog's birthday. While the the outdoor patio tables are fairly small for the giant rack of ribs they serve, it is great that Smoke Daddy has plenty of outdoor seating. My friends and I started our dinner with some smoked bbq chicken wings appetizer. The wings were surprisingly very tasty and flavorful. For the main course, everyone at the table ordered some sort of rib dish, getting a sample of the two rib styles: St. Louis and Baby Back. Both were very good. The sauce and overall flavor on the ribs were excellent. The meat cooked was cooked okay but could have been a bit better; the meat was juicy and tender but not quite falling off the bone. Also, there were three extra sauces that were available to try at the table. The sauces were decent but nothing really stood out. My partner and I enjoyed both the mac and cheese very much. The sweet potato fries were solid. The overall servings for each platter was more than enough food for one person. Smoke Daddy is one of the better barbecue places I've tried in the Chicago. They have great service and excellent outdoor seating. The food is also very savory and delicious. Despite limited sauces, the barbecue is worth, in both price and quantity, and general environment merits more visits to come in the near future. read more

Smoke Daddy - Baby back ribs with sweet potato fries and mac n cheese. - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Josh R.

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback with us, Tushar!…

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Brad M.

8 years ago

I had the same catered lunch as the person below and found the food to be quite exceptional. Smoke Daddy is one of the best BBQ joints in Chicago and is my personal favorite. I used to live right by this place and would visit frequently to enjoy their brisket, chicken & of course- their mac'n'cheese. The cornbread is always amazing and always has the perfect amount of butter in it. As a matter of a fact- I even enjoyed seconds today. In conclusion- Smoke Daddy is the best BBQ joint in town. Keep doing your thing! read more

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Ian C.

Elite 26

176

461

637

10 years ago

Came here on Saturday evening for dinner and drinks, as it is a good place to start an evening out and about. Service- The service was good. Had a waitress, Alison I think, who was from Ireland, and just as friendly as can be. She was great with my group of friends and very attentive with her service and care for her patrons. Atmosphere- The atmosphere in this place was great. Fun, lively, and bustling with energy. Food- The food was great. Ordered a pulled chicken sandwich, with fries and slaw and it was great. Only downside is fries and meat were room temperature by the time I got them at my table. Otherwise everything about this place was great. It is huge and during the summer has a lively outdoor eating area which was a blast. Definately will go back. read more

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Ann S.

Elite 26

118

744

547

13 years ago

There is meat in my Bloody Mary! That's a) crazy b) wonderful. The service and smells of the joint were great. Great pulled meat sandwich. Try it! read more

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Laura B.

298

5 years ago

Smoke Daddy has great bbq, but the star of the show is the Key Lime Pie. It's a generous serving with a delicious, crumbly crust. Definitely the best pie I've had in Chicago. My friend got the pulled chicken sandwich and I did pulled pork, both Carolina style. The coleslaw was good and certainly worth the extra $2 to complete the sandwich. My only issue was with the check a few days later. I had a strict limit on my card as my company would allow me to expense it up to a certain amount. I tipped up to that amount on the check, then left cash to increase the tip. I guess my server did not like that method because they added extra tip to my card. I'm in the process of being refunded the extra amount, but it just seems suspicious. read more

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Josh R.

Laura, we appreciate the feedback and review. Glad to hear that our…

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Sherry W.

2 years ago

Good atmosphere for young folks! Food is just OK. Way too much smoke- kept me burping up smoke for days Cornbread was delicious. Not sure I'll be back. read more

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Josh R.

Thank you for your review! We're sorry to hear your experience wasn't…

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Misha Q.

Elite 26

147

109

257

11 years ago

Amazing service! My waitress was wonderful! It was my first time here and she gave me great recommendations! I got a 2-meat plate, burnt ends and pulled pork. It was a great smoky flavor. And the sides!! The coleslaw was fantastic! What a great and original flavor. I wasn't sure about the beans when my waitress suggested them, but OH where they amazing too! smoky Daddy is now on my list of places to go when I am in town! read more

Smoke Daddy - Two meat plate was amazing! - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Kristina S.

Elite 24

225

177

214

6 years ago

They have some really great meat!! I've been here a few times now, and it's a great location on Division with outdoor tables. They often have live music, which is really nice. I don't love their bbq sauces, but they're good. I got the nachos the other day as takeout, and they were good, but I probably wouldn't get it again. The burnt end sandwich was alright. They have some great Mac and cheese that has a lot of black pepper in it. read more

Smoke Daddy - Pulled Meat Nachos - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Josh R.

Thanks, Kristina! We appreciate the review and feedback.

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Sanjay J.

171

198

6 years ago

The food is pretty good. I got the baby back ribs which were a little dry, but the drinks were quite good! Overall the patio atmosphere was fun and the place was dog friendly which made it a fun experience for me and my pup. Overall, I enjoyed this place and will be back for drinks and possibly some nosh. read more

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Josh R.

Sanjay, we appreciate the review and feedback! Thanks for bringing…

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Philip M.

3 years ago

Just great BBQ , my kids moved down the street so we are lucky to have this awesome BBQ joint so close ! Try it.

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Josh R.

Thanks, Philip! We really appreciate the great 5 star review of…

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anthony n.

365

6 years ago

This is the most bland , sloppy , small portioned ,cold "bbq" you can find in Chicago. There's no soul to this food. It taste like it's assembled at a car factory. I've had this food when it was a small restaurant and I don't remember it being this LACKLUSTER. There's many BBQ options better than Smoke Daddy. Cooked in the oven at home is better option. never again. want a refund. waste of money and appetite.. read more

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Josh R.

Hi anthony n., we appreciate you taking the time to share your…

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Jaime R.

Elite 26

461

1045

8 years ago

Great bbq and fun atmosphere. They have live music which is always a plus. Skip the cocktails and go for a local beer or cider. The baby back ribs were super tender and the collard greens were the best I've had! End your meal with a cookie skillet- obviously! Great place! read more

Smoke Daddy - Cookie skillet- yummmmm - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Smoke Daddy - Half slab of baby backs with fries and collards - Barbeque Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

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Josh R.

Always go with the Cookie Skillet! Thanks Jaime!!

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Sean H.

135

321

118

4 years ago

I don't do 5 star reviews but this place is top notch. Had the rib tips, chicken, greens and beans. This place never fails to satisfy. Kelly was our server, very friendly. Shorty had the double cheeseburger, and was stuffed. Perfect lunch weather for the patio. Very pleasant dining experience. read more

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Josh R.

Thank you so much, Sean!

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Jamie S.

Elite 26

140

673

423

8 years ago

Great BBQ place! There's a lot of good so think about that when ordering. The taste of daddy sampler was definitely enough for 2 to share comfortably. We also had the chicken combo with St. Louis style, collard greens, Mac n cheese and fries. All were pretty good. Fries were a bit salty. Greens were garlicky, not over cooked and just amazing. I had daddy's house salad which was so good! An amazing blend of apples, blue cheese, walnuts and greens and a delicious vinegarette. Definitely enough for a full meal! I totally recommend that! read more

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Michael C.

Elite 19

357

151

851

9 years ago

I've been coming to Smoke Daddy for a long time now with my family and friends and i've got to say, this may be one of my favorite BBQ joints in the city. They're consistently hitting the mark and when I say that they're generous with their portions I do mean they are GENEROUS. My most recent visit we were immediately greeted and seated by an awesome hostess, Laura. She made sure that we got to our table quickly and was able to accommodate our large party even tho it was very short notice. Our service was spectacular, thanks to Maureen who was running around making sure our table got everything we needed. Always friendly, always accommodating, their staff really makes Smoke Daddy one of my favorites in the city! Now the food. If you're just ready to pig out on some BBQ with some tasty sides, there is absolutely no better place than Smoke Daddy. All of their platters are stock piled with delicious, flavorful meat. My favorite has always been their rib tips and brisket. Their sides are also always fantastic: get the mac n cheese! You will be in heaven. If you're ever around make sure you stop by. Truly a great place near Wicker Park! read more

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Alina L.

4 years ago

My son and I went to Smoke daddy two weeks ago. We were excited to go because of the great reviews. Sorry to say I was not impressed. I had half slab of St. Louis ribs and they were ok. I didn't like any of the bbq sauces either. I will say the cornbread was delicious and the mango margarita was great. Will not come back * read more

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Josh R.

Thanks for your feedback.

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Emmanuel C.

Elite 26

154

285

6 years ago

Their smoked wings are amazing. Service was great and this would be a 4 stars but I was told they could make a specific item but they couldn't and I was only informed after my food came. Also not very fond of the Mac and cheese read more

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Josh R.

We appreciate the review and feedback, Emmanuel!

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Asil A.

Elite 25

213

232

5 years ago

Love love love this place! Happened to walk past and sit down in the outdoor patio to grab a quick snack and boy am I glad I did! Service was incredibly fast and the food was oh so delicious!! I had the smoke daddy brisket burger and the Mac n cheese. BEST MAC N CHEESE IVE EVER HAD. the brisket was cooked to perfection and it melts right in your mouth. The guava frozen marg was refreshing. Can't wait to come back and try more! read more

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Josh R.

Thank you so much for this awesome review! See you again soon, we…

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John L.

115

3 years ago

The baby back ribs were smoky, delicious and separated from the bone easily - perfect! Great flavor. The beans on the side are decadent - I could have eaten more! Great cole slaw as well. read more

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Josh R.

Thank you so much, John! We hope to earn that 5th star on your next…

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Hannah L.

Elite 26

212

668

1588

9 years ago

Ordered the Taste of Daddy to share between me and a friend. You get a choice of ribs, two meats, and two sides. We got the baby back ribs, brisket, hot links, mac n cheese, and hand cut fries. This all totaled out to be a little more than 26 dollars. I started off with the mac n cheese. Drenched in the creamy, milky cheese it was absolutely delicious. Next came the ribs, which were smoked well but didn't exactly slide off the bone. It took a little more gnawing than I would have liked. They were saucy enough that you didn't have to add more, but if you'd like I would suggest the sweet and smokey. The fries were shoe string cut and weren't that great. I would say a tad too crispy and over salted.We noticed a lot of people getting sweet potato fries, which actually looked a lot more appetizing. Hot links were actually just a hot link cut in half, but so flavorful, had just enough kick. The brisket was good but nothing above the average. I don't know about the ambiance inside, but outside at there patio there are four TVs going and it was nice and lively. The waitresses were all super friendly and patient. It is a tad squishy with so many tables and chairs that a handful of people bumped into our table. read more

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Tasha W.

4 years ago

The smoked chicken wings were very flavorful, and well cooked. The wings were well sized. I had a side of cornbread, which didn't look the best, but was tasty. My friend had the same, but with beans on the side. He says they were tasty, but appeared to have some kind of meat in it. Couldn't tell what kind, but I didn't try them, as I don't eat pork and there was no mention on the menu of what it was. Overall, will eat here again. read more

Business owner information

Josh R.

Thanks for the five stars! The wings are my favorite! Feel free to…

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Anne C.

Elite 20

1388

563

714

7 years ago

Came in on a Tuesday night to a mostly full restaurant but got two seats at the bar right away which we were fine with! Bartender was super nice and attentive. She took our drink orders and brought our menus as soon as we sat down. To start we got the bowl of chili with cheese, chips and jalapeños. So yummy! We decided to share the largest platter they have for $49, I forget the name now. 2 ribs, 2 smoked meats, Half a chicken and three sides. We are a total foodie couple and this was perfect for us! Our first time there we got to try a lot of different things and we loved it. For dessert we got the cast iron cookie skillet. So good! We will definitely be back for another casual date night! read more

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Josh R.

Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Anne! Looking forward…

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Michael M.

2 years ago

the food and service here is amazing. highly recommend the bbq nachos. they are great and the service is fast and friendly

Business owner information

Josh R.

Thanks for the awesome review, Michael! See you soon!

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Gabby L.

2 years ago

love it!!! best drinks! best staff!! best food!!! always have great time everybody is so nice I love it

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Derek E.

3 years ago

We ordered delivery. We were a little drunk and thought we had ordered something we didn't. When I called, the staff was nothing but professional and so nice about MY mess up. And the food we did order and get was fantastic. One of our favorites. read more

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Josh R.

Thanks so much, Derek, for the 5 star review! Hope you get to visit…

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Page 8 of 41

1804 W Division St
Chicago, IL 60622
West Town, Wicker Park
Directions
(773) 772-6656
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.thesmokedaddy.com

View offerings

Hours

What time does Smoke Daddy open?

Smoke Daddy opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Smoke Daddy opens at 10:00 AM on Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Smoke Daddy close?

Smoke Daddy closes at 9:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday.Smoke Daddy closes at 10:00 PM on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Wed 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMThu-Fri 11:00 AM - 10:00 PMSat 10:00 AM - 10:00 PMSun 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Smoke Daddy take Bitcoin?

No, Smoke Daddy does not take Bitcoin.

Does Smoke Daddy take credit cards?

Yes, Smoke Daddy takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Smoke Daddy have catering options?

Yes, Smoke Daddy does have catering options.

Does Smoke Daddy have a happy hour?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has a happy hour.

Does Smoke Daddy serve alcohol?

Yes, Smoke Daddy serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Smoke Daddy allow dogs?

Yes, Smoke Daddy allows dogs.

Does Smoke Daddy have TVs?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Smoke Daddy have bike parking?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has bike parking.

Does Smoke Daddy have outdoor seating?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has outdoor seating options.

Does Smoke Daddy have parking?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Smoke Daddy wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Smoke Daddy is wheelchair accessible.

Does Smoke Daddy allow outdoor smoking?

No, Smoke Daddy does not allow outdoor smoking.

Does Smoke Daddy have free WiFi?

Yes, Smoke Daddy has free WiFi.

More Info

Health Score

Smoke Daddy Reviews in Other Languages

Italian
1 Review

Ask the Community - Smoke Daddy

If I can only get one type of ribs from here, what would people recommend? Baby back or St. Louis style?

Baby back more meaty but both are good.

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Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

144 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Bennie J.

3 years ago

I recently dined at Smoke Daddy, and I must say, it was one of the most disappointing experiences I've had in a long time. I wish I could give this place zero stars, but unfortunately, Yelp doesn't allow it. Let me start by saying that the food was downright disgusting. We ordered various dishes, including rib tips, coleslaw, Mac and cheese, and collard greens, and every single one was a complete letdown. The lack of seasoning was baffling - it seemed the chef completely forgot to add flavor to the dishes. I had high hopes for a gourmet meal, especially considering the hefty price tag of $66, but it was a total waste of money. The rib tips were dry and flavorless, the coleslaw was bland and lacked any crunch or freshness, and the mac and cheese were like eating a lukewarm, cheesy paste. As for the collard greens, they appeared as if they had been hastily washed and carelessly dumped into my bowl. Evidently, no effort was made to make them flavorful or enjoyable. To make matters worse, I was so disappointed with the quality of the food that I had no choice but to throw it all in the garbage. It's a shame to see such a waste in terms of money and the potential for a satisfying meal. I am so displeased with my experience at Smoke Daddy that I intend to contact my bank to dispute the charges. This establishment failed to deliver its promises and provided me with an abysmal dining experience. If you're looking for a great BBQ place to satisfy your cravings, I strongly encourage you to steer clear of Smoke Daddy. Based on my experience, I will never set foot in that place again. Save yourself the disappointment and find a different BBQ joint that actually values its customers and knows how to prepare flavorful food. read more

Coli S.

12 years ago

Because I live only a block away I go here about once a month. Their biggest draw has to be their outdoor seating & sparkle lights during the summer. It's great for people watching & to catch up with friends. Also they have live music all the time & usually local talent that is never disappointing. However, the reason for the 4 stars & not 5 would be the food. The lack of changing the menu & if they do, there is really nothing spectacular. I mean would it kill you to create more dishes with your meat that isn't a platter or combo with a piece of white bread? Needs way more creativity & love for what you're serving people. Also, there has been at least 3 times where I can remember not being able to eat my food bc the "smoke" or overuse of liquid smoke was so intense I had to throw in the towel after a few bites. I'm perspective, I adore smoked brisket, turkey, & any kind of pulled pork; so this isn't a taste preference issue. Reason for 4 stars regarding food. First & foremost, GET THE BEER CHEESE. Awesome. Also, BRUNCH was a pleasant surprise with a tentative waiter who did his damnedest to create Mickey Mouse pancake for the lil one & live music for brunch! Their drinks are somewhat solid but hard to compete with the other cocktails along Division... But again, they are a standard during the summer for people watching, beer cheese, and a few drink. Word to the wise, get rid of the wine on your menu. No one goes the for wine & when ordered its so-so. read more

Pambo M.

17 years ago

Hella Yelpers, I was returning from the Turkish Baths on Division St. and feeling like a new man. Wow, what happened to Division St? For those of you old enough to remember a night of drinking at Dreamerz followed by the drunken dining/potential armed robbery at Duk's, it seems like a time travel. Hypersaturation of restaurants and stores that sell T-Shirts with cool sayings like- "Don't Blame Me, The Dog Did It" which I saw proudly displayed in a window. The people are all white and seem to be trying very hard to be cool. I even saw a Store that only sell Beads, Jesus Christ, what happened to the days when the Latin Kings ruled this street, has Chicago turned into Santa Fe New Mexico? What would Studs Turkel say? What does any of this have to do with Smoke Daddy? EVERYTHING! The name of the place is SMOKE Daddy and Pambo NEVER seen nor smelled SMOKE anywhere near this place, think about it. Yelp is on my ass, don't a like opinions expressed by Pambo so Pambo go back into SMOKE Daddy and a eat one more time. Still no SMOKE anywhere to be found. Pulled pork nachos, OK, Chicken OK, and Pudding Good, when's the last time you had bad pudding? But, really people if Pambo change his name to SMOKE he have Smoke somewhere! read more

Wade S.

3 years ago

Smoke Daddy BBQ is a must-visit for anyone looking for some delicious barbeque in Chicago. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you are greeted with the mouth-watering aroma of smoked meats and a welcoming, cozy atmosphere. The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, both of which are equally impressive. The indoor seating is decorated with rustic wood and brick accents, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is well-lit, with ample seating options, including booths and tables of varying sizes. The outdoor seating area is equally charming, with strings of lights overhead and plenty of seating options for enjoying a meal under the stars. But the real star of the show is the food. The menu features a wide range of barbeque favorites, including brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and smoked chicken. All the meats are expertly prepared and packed with flavor, and the sides, including mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans, are equally delicious. Overall, Smoke Daddy BBQ is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious barbeque meal in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The indoor and outdoor seating options are both great, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with friends or family. read more

Eric H.

Elite 13

115

101

16 years ago

Well as my Mom says, if you can't say something good, then don't say nothing. Well here goes the good,they don't nickel and dime you on the portions like most northside BBQ joints do. Here a large tip( rib tips) are large enough to sumo wrestle with big fat Bertha who stay around the way down the street! But the problem is that this is just "Going through the Motion BBQ". Caught in the nether ghost world betwixt and between what was once good BBQ and empty soulless midwest white man's ribs. I get the feeling that along time ago, in a galaxy far far away, Smoke Daddy was once owned by a young strange but brilliant pit master like the Pit Mistress who creates amazing BBQ Alchemy at Brand BBQ located on Armitage in Logan Square. I think what happen was that they changed owners far to many times to where the numerous flat screen TVs bring in more backwards hat wearing frat boys and cubs fans than smokey pit BBQ Aficionado's. And frankly the waitresses forced to wear those skimpy "Who's your daddy" t shirts give the place an exploitive Hooters Feel, again catering to the "Hi I'm a royal douche bag and therefore my baseball hat on backwards is my crown" read more

Sabrina C.

Elite 26

603

442

826

1 year ago

I finally made my way to Smoke Daddy in Wicker Park and let me just say, they're not playin' when it comes to BBQ. This place has been around since the 90s for a reason, and now I fully understand why. First off, do yourself a favor and ask for the Purple Rain shot. It's not on the menu, but the staff knows what's up. Sweet, smooth, and dangerously easy to drink. I started with the nachos and wings and honestly, either one could've been a full meal. The nachos were LOADED with big, juicy chunks of pulled BBQ chicken....not just a sprinkle, I'm talkin' generous helpings. And the wings? Perfectly smoked and full of flavor with just the right amount of kick. Then came the taste of the daddy platter, and my jaw literally dropped when it hit the table. An assortment of smoked meats, marinated and cooked to perfection, enough to feed four people easily. Every bite had that rich, smoky flavor you hope for in true BBQ. And the cherry on top? Live music on Friday nights. The vibe was lively, the service was great, and the food was unforgettable. If you're a BBQ lover or just want to have a good time with great food, Smoke Daddy needs to be on your list! read more

John T.

17 years ago

Ok I have a little bit of a hard time with this one, because it is pretty good barbeque and they have bad blues music live, which are both plusses in my book, but almost everything else was wrong. I sat at the bar with my two friends because all the tables were full, so good for them, and good for me too, I like a bar as much as the next guy. Problem was, the bar server or bartender was deeply into looking at some lap top with a guy sitting at the end of the bar, never mind us. So, collard greens are thankfully not boiled to death, but still hard like they barely saw a flame. That wasn't a pleasure. The pulled pork was 8 bucks I think but for maybe three ounces of meat I thought it was pretty outrageous considering they are not using top notch ingredients or anything like that. I'm pretty sure Fat Willy's sandwich is at least twice the size for the same price. The sides are overall pretty bad in quality which seems like the gold standard for bq restaurants in chicago. Hopefully someone comes along and changes that with great bq and great sides. I'm still waiting for that train to pull in. read more

Doyle M.

16 years ago

What's not to love about Smoke Daddy? The hot waitresses with tight shorts and sweet legs who made you wish you were 21 and single again and could slip a phone number underneath that half eaten babyback rib? Or the giant cookie dessert that is as satisfying as it is sublime in its tastiness? The only downside is one time we went with our brother and his wife, who had a six month old baby, and it was clear there was seating available but the waiter was rude and told us there was no seating, probably because he didn't want to deal with the potential of a crying baby. We left and went down to Picante, which is my other favorite restaurant on this whole Damen/Division strip. They have the best food in this town period, but if you're in the mood for some good, old fashioned southern style BBQ, Smoke Daddy is definitely the place to be. read more

Jack H.

11 years ago

Garbage bar food. This is not a rib restaurant. This is bar food with bar service. We went their yesterday, my girl ordered a sandwich and was told she gets two sides. I ordered a half rib meal. I asked if it came with bread and she said I get two pieces of White bread. I didn't get any bread and I asked the server about that and she said, that the bread came with a different meal. LOL Totally ignoring what she had said earlier. Turns out my gf only gets one side and I had to pay 2.95 for a little thing of cole slaw. RIP OFF ALERT. There is no shrimp, no mashed potatoes, no corn, you can normally order with ribs. The french fries are garbage. People who eat here have no taste and no idea what a good rib meal is like. read more

Andy B.

15 years ago

What's not to love about Smoke Daddy? The hot waitresses with tight shorts and sweet legs who made you wish you were 21 and single again and could slip a phone number underneath that half eaten babyback rib? Or the giant cookie dessert that is as satisfying as it is sublime in its tastiness? The only downside is one time we went with our brother and his wife, who had a six month old baby, and it was clear there was seating available but the waiter was rude and told us there was no seating, probably because he didn't want to deal with the potential of a crying baby. If you're in the mood for some good, old fashioned southern style BBQ, Smoke Daddy is definitely the place to be. read more

Calvin M.

16 years ago

Alright...I love Smoke Daddy...The food is simply amazing. I use Yelp all the time, but have never written a review before... until now. I saw a previous review for smoke daddy that forced me to sign up. The truth must be told! Their pork is amazingly tender. Ribs are to die for, and sides are the best around! I love their brisket, and get it all the time. The meats have just enough of their delicious sauce to enhance them (they are not soaked in it like some smoque employees might have you think). On top of all of that their staff is great, and the beer selection is wonderful! So if you are in the mood for the best BBQ Chicago has to offer...go to SMOKE DADDY! read more

Ryan M.

12 years ago

Went on a Sunday for Bloody Mary's and whatever looked delicious. To start, we got the bloodies, with the cucumber vodka and bacon. And it was DELICIOUS. Could have been more spicy, but obviously that's personal preference. Got the brisket which was very good. Nice touch that all the sauces were on the table so you could try them all. We sat outside which was full, but not crowded. I rate it at a 4/5 because our waitress made it seem that she could be doing something else on her Sunday. Not necessarily rude, but she wasn't fond of going back and forth with all the drinks we kept ordering. Regardless, I highly recommend this place. read more

Jesse Lee K.

13 years ago

A visit to Smoke Daddy is a must for anyone who enjoys chowing on some swine. It's good anytime but I suggest a late night visit when the live band is rocking and you want some good hearty food to cap off the night. The meat has a very smoky flavor so it's not for everyone but if you like that taste you'll love any of the meat on the menu. The BBQ sauce is good too and there are three different varieties at your table. They just upgraded the patio with a sports bar atmosphere so you can watch the game and dine el fresco. If you're just looking for a snack, check out the pulled pork nachos! read more

Achint M.

2 years ago

WOW! The food at Smoke Daddy BBQ was absolutely flawless. Each bite was a testament to their culinary expertise and passion for barbecue. What sets this place apart is their daily specials, offering something new and exciting each day. Whether it's succulent ribs, tender brisket, or mouthwatering pulled pork, every dish is prepared to perfection. The flavors are rich and smoky, leaving you craving more. The atmosphere is inviting and the service is top-notch, making it a fantastic dining experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy some of the best BBQ around! read more

Mehran F.

Elite 22

810

421

8 years ago

INEDIBLE candied meat sold as ribs. So sweet. Baked beans, soaked in sugar. Collard green fine. Ordered a full rib and took half with me hoping i'd see a homeless who may enjoy it. Did not see anyone. Ended up putting it in a trash bin finally. I assume their other meats would be better as they do not have the maxed out glazing of the rib eye. But this was my third time there and i do not remember ever being impressed. Could not wait to get home and brush my teeth. Service by Alanna was pleasant, professional and attentive, hence two stars instead of one. read more

Victoria A.

12 years ago

Smoke Daddy is my go-to BBQ place! I haven't found a spot in Chicago I like better... and trust me, I know my BBQ. Service has always been friendly and pretty reliable, prices are pretty great, beer selection is comparable, location is prime. If you go, you've GOT to try the banana pudding!! I like to have them bring it out right away, so I can eat it before my dinner ;) Don't drink and drive! Download the FREE Lyft app, enter UserCode: ALLY156 into the Payments section and get $25 FREE (YES! FREE) on your first ride! LOVE IT!! read more

Gillian M.

15 years ago

Oh Smoke Daddy, where do I begin? I dont have one negative thing to say about this neighborhood place. I love the cozy atmosphere. I love the live blues/blugrass/dixie music. (Although it can get a tad loud at times) Food wise, this place is dead on for me. Pulled pork...awesome. Mac and cheese, cornbread, and coleslaw... all equally as awesome. They have a great selection of beer, and they not only make theyre own bbq sauce (available 3 different ways) they smoke their own meat. Cant beat it. Prices are great too! read more

Irene G.

Elite 16

161

358

1472

13 years ago

I wasn't all too hungry (plus I'm not much of a bbq sauce person) when my friends decided to dine in on a Saturday afternoon, so I just ordered their famous bloody mary which was pretty good and sweet potatoe fries. The fries were superb! I could've had those all day. My friend had the rotisserie chicken (slathered in bbq sauce of course) and he devoured it within minutes. The service here is great and there's plenty of entertainment since there's a live band performing almost every night. Nice patio, too. read more

Marlene D.

14 years ago

Food Was Great & beer was even better! The place is rather small so I cant imagine what its like when its busy, but while I dined it was slow and everything was great. Atmosphere seemed pretty welcoming. Food is a plus considering you get alot of choices when it comes to the barbeque sauces for your ribs, I wasnt too hungry so I wanted to share but didnt think the portions would be enough, and lemme tell you I had leftovers from sharing my friends plate! Nice spot...nothing too catchy. read more

Ann P.

13 years ago

I love this place. Everything about it just screams joy to me. The sauce is amazing, they have really nailed it. The meat is always juicy, not dry. The bloody marys are to DIE for. Then you get the added bonus of music! Try the baby backs, the pulled pork, the chicken and if you can, ALL of the sides! Take some friends with you, because you could really hurt yourself in a single seating. I go here at least once a week when I am home and I am yet to be disappointed. read more

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Smoke Daddy - bbq - Updated July 2026

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