Evanston, IL / BBQ The 23 top-rated bbq in Evanston, IL, ranked by flavor score.
The top choice is smoked brisket at Soul & Smoke (1601 Payne St Ste C), with a flavor score of 89 out of 100 from 6 diner ratings. Flavor scores come from what real diners say in their reviews. Last updated August 27, 2026. How flavor scores work →
Flavor score 89 out of 100, based on 6 ratings
Ranked # 2
At @ Soul & Smoke| 1601 Payne St Ste C Smoky pulled pork is tender and flavorful, often praised for its perfect balance of spice and tangy BBQ sauce.
Flavor score 87 out of 100, based on 53 ratings
Ranked # 3
Tender, juicy rib tips with great smoky flavor are often complemented by a delicious sauce that enhances the overall taste.
Flavor score 84 out of 100, based on 87 ratings
Ranked # 4
Rib tips stand out for their flavor, while the barbecue is praised for being a must-try in Evanston.
Flavor score 82 out of 100, based on 13 ratings
Flavor score 82 out of 100, based on 6 ratings
Flavor score 81 out of 100, based on 5 ratings
Ranked # 7
Tender, flavorful ribs with a great sauce are praised, but some found them dry, overcooked, or lacking meat.
Flavor score 81 out of 100, based on 49 ratings
Flavor score 81 out of 100, based on 7 ratings
Ranked # 9
Juicy, moist brisket with rich flavor receives high praise, often described as melt-in-your-mouth and a must-try BBQ delight.
Flavor score 81 out of 100, based on 13 ratings
Flavor score 81 out of 100, based on 9 ratings
Flavor score 78 out of 100, based on 6 ratings
Ranked # 12
The hot links received praise for their taste, but many found them overly soft, salty, or lacking quality meat.
Flavor score 77 out of 100, based on 34 ratings
Ranked # 13
At @ Soul & Smoke| 1601 Payne St Ste C Ribs are praised for their tenderness and smoky flavor, but some find them overly salty or lacking freshness.
Flavor score 75 out of 100, based on 72 ratings
Flavor score 74 out of 100, based on 5 ratings
Ranked # 15
At @ Soul & Smoke| 1601 Payne St Ste C Baby back ribs have a delightful smoky flavor and good tenderness, but some found them dry or fatty at times.
Flavor score 74 out of 100, based on 10 ratings
Ranked # 16
At @ Soul & Smoke| 1601 Payne St Ste C Rib tips have great seasoning and flavor, but many found them tough, dry, or lacking in tenderness.
Flavor score 74 out of 100, based on 58 ratings
Ranked # 17
Rib tips often lack sufficient barbecue sauce, are greasy with cartilage, and the fries are consistently soggy and unremarkable.
Flavor score 69 out of 100, based on 29 ratings
Flavor score 68 out of 100, based on 7 ratings
Flavor score 67 out of 100, based on 6 ratings
Ranked # 20
The sausage was tender but often overshadowed by dry, flavorless rib tips, overly sweet sauce, and cold fries.
Flavor score 67 out of 100, based on 10 ratings
Ranked # 21
Ribs often arrive boiled instead of smoked, lacking sauce and flavor, with some finding them overly salty and poorly prepared.
Flavor score 66 out of 100, based on 13 ratings
Flavor score 58 out of 100, based on 5 ratings
Flavor score 54 out of 100, based on 8 ratings
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