ZipPicks Awards
Best BBQ in Chatham
Master Critic Review
No Sauce AZ Smokehouse
8.0
A newer-school smokehouse with a modern menu feel—ribs, tips, and wings built for bold seasoning and strong smoke presence. The room runs casual and the reputation is still growing, but it’s one of the most interesting BBQ plays in the ZIP for people who want something beyond legacy counters.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rib tips, Smoked wings, Ribs
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: A modern South Side smokehouse aiming for big flavor without relying on sauce.
Who should go: BBQ explorers who like newer spots and wings
When to visit: Mid-afternoon for shorter lines and full menu
What to order: Rib tips, ribs, smoked wings
Insider tip: Order a mixed-meat combo to sample the pit before committing big.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in the surrounding blocks; easiest move is to park a half-block off the main stretch and walk over. It can tighten up during peak dinner hours, but daytime visits are typically painless.
Dress code: Casual and practical—hoodies, jeans, and sneakers fit right in. Wear something you don’t mind getting a little smoky or saucy if you’re going all-in on ribs and tips.
Noise level: Moderate - lively counter-service energy, but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20-35 min typical; can push 40+ if they get a rush or if the pit items are moving slowly.
Weekday lunch: 5-15 min typical; often quick in-and-out if you order efficiently.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - you can usually make a sides-based meal, but it’s not the main focus and options can vary day to day.
Vegan options: Very limited - expect mostly sides (and you’ll want to ask what’s cooked with meat drippings or butter).
Gluten-free options: Possible but needs asking - most smoked meats can be naturally gluten-free, but rubs, sauces, and sides vary; confirm before ordering if you’re sensitive.
Best For
Better for: Modern, boldly seasoned BBQ with a “smoke-first” identity—especially if you want rib tips, ribs, and wings that don’t depend on heavy sauce to taste exciting.
Consider Alternatives If: Choose a more traditional legacy counter if you want classic mild-and-saucy South Side BBQ, a quieter sit-down experience, or dependable vegetarian/vegan variety.