Restaurant Review: Bub City

Since I am a born and raised East Coast girl, I was dying to find some good Midwest BBQ once I move to Chicago. I asked around and some friends recommended Bub City on Clark Street in River North.

I recently headed over there with a group of friends (the best way to go there) and was able to try the majority of the menu items.  While my BBQ standards may not be as high as some of my Midwest readers, I have a lot of dining out experience and I was overwhelmed by how delicious (and fun) our meal at Bub City was.

Here is what we had and my thoughts:

1) Giddy up Fries (aka, the “white trash nachos”): I’m not normally a “loaded fries” kinda girl, but holy smokes these are good. Everything you could ever want on an order of nachos is piled onto delicious, crispy waffle fries and topped with their signature pulled pork. At $12.95, this is the perfect way to start your meal.

2) Crystal Valley 1/2 Chicken: Normally, I steer clear from ordering 1/2 chickens anywhere because it’s usually pretty dry. I’m not sure how Bub City keeps it so moist, but they do. The chicken is only dry rubbed, so you’ll want to dip it in one of their amazing BBQ sauces (they are all on the table for you). This dish could feed a small army, so for $13.95, it’s totally worth it.

3) Baby Back Ribs: Although the sauce is delicious, I’m not sure I’d order these ribs again. I found them to be just a little bit dry and a tiny bit over-price ($22.95 for a full-rack). Maybe we just got a bad order, but I’d pass on them next time.

4) Burnt Ends: Get em’ while supplies last! This limited menu item is only available until they run out each day. I recommend getting to Bub City a little early to ensure you get to try this BBQ classic. If you don’t know what burnt ends are, they are basically all the crispy part of the fattiest part of the brisket. Talk about flavor! For just $15.95, these are a steal.

5) Bub BBQ Combo: This is the BBQ version of a sampler platter. For just $24.95, you get to try; hot links, pulled pork, brisket and get a choice of two sides. This is a great way to try it all for a great price. It’s probably only enough to feed about 3 people, so if you have more people or a large appetite, order two.

6) Nice Coleslaw: I’m kind of obsessed with coleslaw. I’d almost consider myself a coleslaw snob, but this one meets my standards. It’s creamy, sweet and a little bit tangy. I’d order a couple for the table (it’s only $3.50), because it won’t last long.

7) Cucumbers & Tomatoes: I love this side dish! It’s a very traditional BBQ, vinegar based salad. It’s the perfect balance to all the sweet and spicy you’ll be eating (and only $2.95).

8) Buffalo Tots: These are just tater tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese. In my honest opinion, you can make these at home pretty easily. Save the $6.50 and choose one of the more interesting side dishes.

9) Sweet Potato Fluff: I’m sorry, did I order dessert? This sugary side dish can’t be missed if you have any sort of a sweet tooth. It’s basically super whipped sweet potatoes topped with marshmallow. I personally loved it, but a couple people felt it was too sweet for dinner. You’ll have to be the judge. At $4.50, I’d say it’s worth the risk.

10) Phoebe’s Mac & Cheese: Whoever Phoebe is, I want to meet her! This mac & cheese is insane. I think I make one of the best mac’s in the world, but this Phoebe character gives me a run for my money. If you’re a fan of this cheesy dish, make sure you order order two and bring one home (it’s only $6.50!)

So that’s it (like 10 dishes isn’t enough, right?!) I hope you’ll head over to Bub City soon and let me know what you think.

Do you have any other BBQ restaurants in Chicago I should try? What about in other cities when I travel?

Love always,
Erica