Rockford, the heart of northern Illinois, is all about comfort food—and when folks here want something hearty and smoky, they turn to the handful of barbecue joints that bring Chicago big-city technique with true Midwestern hospitality.
Here are five local spots where barbecue fans flock for ribs, sausage, and more.
Smokehouse Barbecue
A downtown Rockford fixture, Smokehouse is loved for its St. Louis-style ribs, slow-roasted pulled pork, and spicy-smoked andouille.
The cozy setting and friendly service make it a year-round favorite—don’t skip their tangy homemade sauces.
Backyard Grill & Bar
With multiple locations around town, Backyard Grill offers a solid line-up of barbecue staples: smoked chicken, brisket, ribs, and creative sandwiches. Their loaded fries with pulled pork and all the trimmings are an indulgent treat.
Smokey Bones Bar & Fire Grill
A chain, yes, but this spot draws crowds for its reliable smoked meats, zesty wings, and mountain of sides. It’s a great large-group option for barbecue with sports on TV and a family-friendly crowd.
15th & Chris
Best known as a burger joint, 15th & Chris also turns out surprisingly good smoked brisket sandwiches and BBQ-infused specials. Their secret? A commitment to quality beef and inventive toppings.
Babe’s Sandwich Company
Downtown’s Babe’s is a lunch favorite with creative sandwiches and platters—smoked brisket, pulled pork, and housemade sausage are local hits. The cheerful, quick-service setup makes it perfect for grabbing barbecue on the go.
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