Such a great place for BBQ.
I'm from Arkansas. I've eaten at many shacks and joints throughout the South. After moving North, its been incredibly difficult to find palatable bbq that compares.
Smoque is hands down the best in the Chicagoland area. Tender, juicy, not overly salted, and rubs were spot on. All in ~$35 for the pan of brisket, ribs, beans, mac&cheese, slaw and cornbread.
It's been a fun 12 years with him. Damn you cancer!
Our Pup pictured was laid to rest last Monday due to kidney failure. They are together again.
When it rains, it pours.
Luckily I wasn't on my phone while driving or we would have found out that when two F-250s collide, it makes a F-500!
Tiny Brisket went from smoker to cooler to trash. I passed out lastnight after many beers, woke up this morning to a cold brisket in the cooler. Pork turned out great and was properly handled. Somehow I managed to pull it off at 200° and let it rest but to my surprise it was in the fridge this morning. $25 down the drain and a lesson learned.
Sorry no after pics. Couldn't find my phone.
Here are a few of my latest pick ups. Just need a dramatic fold over error and inverted serial number, then I'll be done for a while.
Only 5 months ago and this was 3 days before ATH.
Screenshot 1/25/2026
Anthony Bourdain. He taught me so much.
Sharing a vision. Sharing conversation. Sharing food.
It's not just a job. It's a craft to be shared.
That's what it is all about!
Heading to PMG ASAP!
Please don't be this person. If you almost miss your exit, there will be more up ahead. I promise!