17 Best Barbeque Restaurants near Grayslake

“We’ve dined here a number of times over the years, and it’s always managed to deliver that satisfying, slow-smoked comfort that keeps regulars coming back. But this latest visit stood out—worthy of a fresh review and renewed praise. Service, which in past visits could occasionally feel uneven, hit all the right notes this time. The staff was attentive without being intrusive, moving with a quiet confidence that set the tone for the evening. It’s a small but important improvement that elevated the experience considerably. As for the food—the heart of any smokehouse—the kitchen was clearly in fine form. I opted for both the ribs and smoked turkey, and each showcased why this spot has earned its loyal following. The ribs arrived perfectly glazed, with that balance of bark and tenderness that only comes from skill and patience. The smoked turkey, too often an afterthought at lesser establishments, was moist, flavorful, and subtly infused with smoke—no small feat. Cocktails rounded out the evening, each one thoughtfully mixed and balanced, adding a polished touch to the rustic fare. If there’s one shortcoming, it’s the setting. The restaurant occupies a strip mall space that, while perfectly functional, lacks the atmosphere its food deserves. The interior and seating are serviceable but uninspired—a missed opportunity to extend the warmth and authenticity of the menu into the design. A bit more “smokehouse soul” in the decor would bring the full experience together. Still, those quibbles fade with the first bite of those ribs. BBQ'd Productions remains one of the best spots around for great smoked meats and hearty, satisfying meals—now with service that finally matches the kitchen’s skill.“

“I was the lucky one to win a red envelope from BBQ Productions & Station 51 Truck Co Bar & Grill. Jeff was amazing & extremely helpful! I freakin love my Louisana Founder Series Smoker! Thank you!!!!!“

“delicious food served by treat people. find your way in.“

“If you understand BBQ-- REAL good BBQ takes time to smoke to a tender, juicy, pinky, perfect flavor. You need to have a great deal of patience and skill. Lee and Danita have that gift in their soul so you have to wait for all that goodness to be assembled for your dining experience. Sit and talk after placing your order be patient and you won't EVER be disappointed.“

“Jackie and the team are fantastic! Everything here is house made! We had multiple sauces, meats, cornbread, chips and salsa, Mac n cheese and curry - all of which were enjoyed! I came here with multiple family members and clearly need to get back to sample dessert. They have good kids’ meal options plus a little gift area. Very clean and extremely nice service. Must try it all!“

“I can't say enough good things about this restaurant! They went above and beyond to take care of my veteran fiancé for Veterans Day, (even though we were a day late in being able to visit), taking care of us like family, from the regional director to all the restaurant staff. The food was terrific and my fiancé loved everything; the food, the staff, and the military/first responders decor, and the respect given to veterans. They even put his picture from his Army service days on their wall, which gave him a huge smile when he saw himself displayed on their wall along with photos of so many other veterans. And even though we don't live nearby, we will make it a point to visit them every time we get the chance to. Thanks again to everyone there!!“

“My fiancé and I loved it here! Very nice and attentive staff! Food is delicious and filling as well. This is honestly the best korean bbq I been to just based off of the fact that all the sides, meats, and staff being great! Its a bit pricy, but definitely worth it!“

“Organized a youth basketball program’s Christmas lunch to be here and I must say, the food, the service, the atmosphere was all on point. They were so welcoming and accommodating. The parents and players enjoyed it all. Food was fresh and flavorful with good portions. Highly recommend this restaurant!“

“All I have to say is I would not be there. The best customer service I’ve ever had to make sure that I have everything for my to go order and I don’t even wanna get on the food how good that is 12 stars if I can give them if you don’t know city barbecue you don’t know nothing🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥“

“I've been coming here for awhile, and have always loved the food. The difference is lately (last couple months or so)I've noticed a change in the presentation and cleanliness of the restaurant, the morale of the staff, and just the entire energy of this place has changed. Disney bingo is a great example. That place was insanely busy yet everyone was happy, service was great, and the guests didn't suffer because of the volume of business. Then the other day I met the new manager! It all started to make sense. I can't remember her name but she was so cute and professional. Her charisma is contagious and I just feel like you guys are doing a great job and moving in a great direction. Happy holidays to you all and thanks for the amazing food from our family.“

“I am from the South but I'm currently living in Wisconsin, and I have been looking for a place that serves fried catfish. I finally found it in Captain Porky's, and they did not disappoint! The staff is so nice, the place is very clean, and the menu is very large so if you can't find anything to eat you must not be hungry. This has now become one of my favorite places to go and eat!“

“I had the pulled chicken entree with golden corn bake and roasted Brussels sprouts for sides, plus a fountain drink for a late lunch ~1:30 on a weekday.

I had the dining room to myself (a plus for me as I like solitude).

Tables were clean, food was delicious and the staff attentive.

With tax and tip, I was paid less than $25.

I have enough chicken and corn bake for a second meal. I couldn't NOT finish the Brussels sprouts.

In addition to the two sides, I took advantage of the offered (complimentary aka free) slice of white bread and sweet and sour pickles.

I have been here before, but that was years ago. Im glad to see its just as good as always and still in business.

Lord willing, I will return soon. Its out of my way but oh, so good!

I would like to see some senior meals or discounts offered for patrons who have lived 60 (sixty) plus years.“

“Went there on 6/22/22. We ate outside and were pleased to have a musician playing on the patio. The food was excellent as was the service. Bring your appetite and still expect to take home leftovers. Classic menu of steaks, chops, sandwiches and top notch BBQ. This will be a mainstay for us moving forward. Can't recommend this place enough!“

“Exceptionally excellent food and peeps!!!“

“By far my favorite Korean restuarant, I swung by twice a week for a period of time, though I settled into once every week or two

Prices are quite cheap for Korean BBQ and flavor doesn't suffer for it either. The store-front is run by a family & they maintain professionality while being friendly

I always got the tteokbokki (rice cakes in spicy broth) and alternated between the bulgogi (beef dish) & bibimbap (assorted veg, beef, + egg over rice) and occasional splurged with the ojinguh bokkum (calamari dish) or the chapchae (cellophane noodles which are clear & chewy). The tteokbokki + one dinner dish typically ran me about $31.30 and fed me for close to 2 meals, side dishes were free

[Food pictures to be added when maps isn't bugging out]“

“The food was great! We had a crispy chicken sandwich-the garlic aioli was so good, the chicken was hot and crispy. A build your own hamburger- again, juicy and so good. A gyro- perfect with fries!
The service was fast and attentive. We will be back.“