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Soul & Smoke
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Soul & Smoke
8.4
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Soul & Smoke’s Avondale location at Rockwell on the River is a barbecue and soul food kitchen centered on smoked prime brisket, Duroc rib tips, and hearty sides. Diners rely on it for takeout platters and casual riverside meals built around carefully smoked meats and mac + cheese.
Must-Try Dishes:
Prime Brisket Dinner, Smoked Duroc Rib Tips, Meat Sampler
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Chef-driven barbecue and soul food focused on smoked prime brisket and rib tips.
Who should go: BBQ fans wanting serious smoked meats without downtown crowds.
When to visit: Evenings and weekends when the smoker and patio are busiest.
What to order: Prime Brisket Dinner, Smoked Duroc Rib Tips, Meat Sampler.
Insider tip: Preorder online for peak hours to lock in brisket and avoid pickup delays.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot within the Rockwell on the River complex, plus additional nearby street parking.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear are totally fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversations are comfortable, but it can get lively during peak times.
Weekend wait: 10–30 minutes during peak rush, longer on sunny patio days.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few sides and salads, but mains are meat-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect sides only.
Gluten-free options: Several smoked meats and some sides are naturally gluten-free; ask staff for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it works well for a laid-back, comfort-food-focused date, especially if you sit by the river. It’s more casual than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is generally first-come and manageable. Ordering at the counter keeps turnover steady, but peak times may require patience.
Is it kid-friendly? Very — casual setting, approachable food, and space for families. Ideal for school-age kids and up.
Best For
Better for: High-quality brisket, polished sides, and consistent execution in a relaxed, family-friendly space.
Skip if: You want traditional, smoky dive-style BBQ vibes or a formal sit-down restaurant experience.
Soul & Smoke
8.6
Soul & Smoke’s Avondale outpost brings chef-driven Chicago barbecue to the Rockwell on the River campus, with smoked Duroc rib tips sharing menu space with brisket and sides that actually matter. Fans lean on it for reliable takeout, catering, and patio picnics when the weather cooperates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Smoked Duroc Rib Tips, Smoked Prime Brisket Sandwich, Signature Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Pit-smoked rib tips and brisket served with chef-level care.
Who should go: BBQ fans who prioritize meat and serious sides.
When to visit: Evenings or weekend afternoons for relaxed patio sessions.
What to order: Smoked Duroc rib tips, brisket sandwich, mac & cheese.
Insider tip: Order rib tips and sides ahead online to dodge peak lines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free onsite lot and additional parking within the Rockwell on the River complex; usually manageable outside peak dining hours
Dress code: Casual — comfy clothes and jeans are totally fine
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is easy indoors and quieter on the patio
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes depending on weather and patio demand
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — sides like mac & cheese and greens are the primary options
Vegan options: Very limited — best for sides or sauces only
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free meats and sides, but confirm sauce ingredients
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want relaxed, casual comfort food instead of a formal setting — the patio is especially nice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it's counter-service and seating is first-come, first-served. Ordering ahead online helps during busy times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — casual service, open spaces, and familiar comfort foods make it easy for families.
Best For
Better for: Consistently tender rib tips, thoughtfully prepared brisket, and sides that feel like real dishes rather than afterthoughts
Skip if: You want full-service dining, ultra-traditional Southern BBQ styles, or lots of vegan/vegetarian mains