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Old Soul Kitchen
$$ · BBQ

324 N Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 60612
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ZipPicks Awards

Best BBQ Ribs in Near West Side

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Old Soul Kitchen 7.6
North Center
Vibes: Hidden Gems Heaven Comfort Food Classics Quick Bites Champions Solo Dining Sanctuaries
A small, comfort-first spot where the BBQ side of the menu leans soulful rather than smokehouse-formal—think sauced meats and hearty sides with a catering-friendly mindset. The ribs play best as a satisfying plate for takeout, not a linger-long dining-room destination.
Must-Try Dishes: Beef Short Ribs, Pork Tips, Hot Links
Scores:
Value: 8.2 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 7.3 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 6.3 Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Soul-leaning BBQ plates with beef short ribs and sauced tips.
Who should go: Takeout-first comfort-food people
When to visit: Early dinner for freshest pickup
What to order: Beef Short Ribs, Pork Tips, Hot Links
Insider tip: Confirm short-rib availability before you order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on nearby blocks; generally manageable for quick pickup, but can tighten up during busier early-dinner hours. Plan a short walk rather than expecting a front-door spot.
Dress code: Casual comfort—jeans, hoodies, and workwear all fit in. Come as you are; this is a takeout-first food stop, not a dress-up room.
Noise level: Low to moderate—more of a functional, quick-service vibe than a loud dining room. Easy to place an order and chat, but most people aren’t lingering.
Weekend wait: 15-30 min for food (longer if you’re ordering ribs + sides and they’re in a rush window).
Weekday lunch: 0-10 min typically; fast in-and-out when you keep it simple.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some sides can work as a light meal, but this is a meat-forward menu at its core.
Vegan options: Very limited—expect few to no true vegan-ready options without compromises; best to choose another spot if vegan is the main mission.
Gluten-free options: Some BBQ proteins may be naturally gluten-free, but sauces and cross-contact are likely—ask before ordering if you’re sensitive.
Best For
Better for: Saucy, soul-leaning BBQ plates with hearty sides—more 'comfort-food catering energy' than smokehouse perfection. Great when you want a satisfying rib plate fast, without needing the full BBQ temple experience.
Consider Alternatives If: Skip if you’re chasing elite smoke ring, craft brisket precision, or a destination dine-in night. Also skip if your group needs strong vegetarian/vegan choices or strict gluten-free confidence.