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Columbia Yacht Club
ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ Ribs in Loop
Master Critic Review
Columbia Yacht Club
7.9
A one-of-a-kind dining setting on the clubship with skyline-and-lake views, where ribs show up in classic BBQ form when they run their smoke-and-sauce lane. The move is to treat it like an occasion meal: commit to the ribs, add one proper side, and let the setting do the rest.
Must-Try Dishes:
Memphis Style Pork Spare Ribs, Memphis Red Tangy BBQ sauce ribs, Honey Butter Cornbread
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A rare clubship dining room with skyline views and BBQ-rib nights.
Who should go: Date nights and groups who want a scenic meal
When to visit: Sunset hours for the best skyline views
What to order: Memphis spare ribs, tangy BBQ sauce, cornbread
Insider tip: Ask what rib style/sauce is running before you order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Nearby public parking garages around Lakeshore East; limited street parking near the harbor, especially evenings and weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine, but the setting rewards a polished look.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy conversation indoors, slightly livelier when outdoor decks are full.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer around sunset.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable-forward sides and non-meat mains, though the menu is not vegetarian-focused.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly salads and select sides; best to review the menu ahead of time.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free options available; confirm sauces and sides with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially if you want a memorable setting. The views do a lot of the work, though it’s better for relaxed conversation than a quick, casual meet-up.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, but it’s hit-or-miss. Walk-ins are possible earlier in the evening or on weekdays; sunset hours usually require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for adults and older kids. It’s calm and scenic rather than playful, with limited kid-specific menu items.
Best For
Better for: Scenic, occasion-driven dining—few places in the Loop match the lake-and-skyline setting for ribs and a sit-down meal.
Skip if: You want pure BBQ intensity or fast, casual ribs—traditional smokehouses and neighborhood BBQ spots deliver more depth per dollar.