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Mr E Chef's Barbecue
Master Critic Review
Mr E Chef's Barbecue
7.9
Mr E Chef’s Barbecue is a Black family-owned, catering-driven BBQ outfit now operating takeout and delivery from the Rockwell ghost kitchen. The menu leans into Southern-style smoked ribs, rib tips, wings, and sides based on the late Ernest S. Kelley III’s comfort food recipes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Ribs, BBQ Rib Tips, Catfish Nuggets
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Family-run BBQ and catering focusing on Southern-style ribs, rib tips, and wings.
Who should go: Groups and families ordering trays of smoked meats.
When to visit: Order ahead for weekends, holidays, and game days.
What to order: Smoked Ribs, BBQ Rib Tips, Catfish Nuggets.
Insider tip: Watch their social and catering channels for festival pop-ups like Taste of Chicago appearances.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in the surrounding neighborhood; usually available but can vary during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual — come as you are.
Noise level: Low — primarily a takeout and delivery operation with minimal on-site dining activity.
Weekend wait: Pre-orders recommended; expect possible delays during peak catering periods.
Weekday lunch: Typically ready within standard quoted prep times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — sides-only dining for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited — a few sides may qualify depending on preparation, but options are not the focus.
Gluten-free options: Some smoked meats may be naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact and sauce ingredients are not guaranteed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a relaxed takeout night than a sit-down date, since the operation is primarily delivery- and pickup-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There is no traditional dining room, so plan for pickup or delivery rather than seated dining.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for takeout — smoked meats and sides tend to be crowd-pleasers, but there aren’t in-house kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Family-style trays of smoked ribs, rib tips, and wings with a soulful, home-recipe feel — especially for events and gatherings.
Skip if: You’re looking for a full-service dine-in BBQ experience or a menu with extensive vegetarian or health-focused options.