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Windy City Ribs & Whiskey
Master Critic Review
Windy City Ribs & Whiskey
8.0
Across from McCormick Place in the Motor Row corridor, Windy City Ribs & Whiskey focuses on sauced pork ribs, smoked meats, and late-night bar snacks for pre- and post-event crowds. With a full bar, TVs, and long hours, it functions as a casual BBQ-and-whiskey hangout as much as a sit-down rib house.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Pork Ribs, Whiskey-Glazed Wings, Brisket Platter with Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 6.1
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Event-adjacent ribs-and-whiskey spot that serves BBQ late into the night.
Who should go: Convention guests and sports fans craving ribs and drinks.
When to visit: Evenings before or after McCormick Place events and games.
What to order: Smoked pork ribs, brisket platter, whiskey-glazed wings.
Insider tip: On busy convention nights, sit at the bar for faster drink refills and food.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking is limited in Motor Row; most guests use nearby surface lots or McCormick Place garages, with prices and availability fluctuating during major events.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys and jeans are common on game and convention days.
Noise level: Loud during games and event rushes; conversational but energetic at off-peak times.
Weekend wait: Event-dependent — typically 20–40 minutes, but can extend to 45–60+ minutes during large conventions or games.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait outside of event windows.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few sides, salads, and non-BBQ items depending on availability.
Vegan options: Very limited — most core dishes are meat- and sauce-focused; confirm ingredients with staff.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be served without buns or bread, but there is no dedicated gluten-free prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangs than a quiet first date — the TVs, bar energy, and event crowds create a lively, sports-bar vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — walk-ins are common, but arrive early on convention or game nights when waits can spike quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Generally fine for families earlier in the evening; it feels more adult and bar-forward later at night during heavy event traffic.
Best For
Better for: Pre- and post-event groups who want sauced ribs, whiskey drinks, TVs, and late hours in walking distance of McCormick Place.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, purist smoke-forward barbecue, or strict dietary accommodations.