I Love BBQ- How Long would you wait for “the good stuff”?

I grew up on BBQ. Every Saturday night ( except for the Jewish holidays) we ate something bar-b-qued. As a kid, I recall the drives to Russell’s, Sally’s and other small family operations. As the years went on, there have been many newcomers to the BBQ world in ans around Chicago. Fat Willie’s in the city as well as Smoke drew attention to many diners. Suburbanites run to Urban BBQ and similar types and just recently I enjoyed some truly memorable food at Papa Willie’s in Highwood.  I LOVE BBQ!

Since my listeners often reach out to me. If you are unfamiliar, I am on WCPT820 every Sunday from 2-3 p.m. and talk about the dining spaces that I have tried, and just a week ago, I was advised about a new place opening up in the Palatine area. The name is Chicago Culinary Kitchen and the location is the Lake Cook Commons shopping center at Lake Cook and “old 53”. They will be opening very soon. Little did I know they have been IN Palatine for a few years, but at Route 14/Northwest Highway and Quentin Road ( actual address is 773 N. Quentin Road) in a strip center.

Today, Frank and I visited this amazing spot along with my granddaughter Caitlin and her boyfriend, Andrew ( bot culinary school graduates). Turns out they were there just a week ago and were excited to return. I now see why!

Chicago Culinary Kitchen is very unique and a true one-of-a-kind. They are open on Saturday and Sunday ONLY

They open at 11 a.m. on both days and close when the food runs out ( approx 2 p.m.).

People were outside waiting in line when I arrived at 10:30 in the morning.

While we were not there to do a full review, waiting for the new space, Greg insisted that we come and see what the fuss is all about! We did and now I GET IT!!!!

We were served the “Big Hoss”, a platter with some items that not only satisfied each of our needs, with flavors to savor ( I must say, no sauces were needed as this was juicy BBQ) but even allowed for some left-overs. We had ribs, chicken, a great burger, sausages, brisket, beef and some super sides. This is not a regular menu item, but offered us a true sampling of a marvelous menu.

As we dined, we were able to watch as the line of people ( at 11 am they began to enter) came in and ordered their food, some to go others to dine in. Catering orders can be pre-ordered via e-mail and  picked up at a scheduled time.  The weekly special, because of limited quantities can’t be pre-ordered. All of the CDC rules are followed and as the day progressed some of the items were “sold out”. The kitchen is quite busy for the roughly three hours of activity. The line was still there when we left, but the people were happy to be soon, knowing that they flavors they savor would soon be either on the way to their tummies or on the way home ( perhaps for an early dinner)

They offer new special each week-end, so it pays to join them on Facebook or sign up at www.chicagoculinarykitchen.com so the list of specials gets t your phone/e-mail. This allows you to plan ahead or order ahead to guarantee your order. The current address is 773 N. Quentin Road in Palatine. Phone 847-987-0369

As soon as they open at the new place, I will advise here and on radio. Join their mailing list and you will get notified right away. Kristina and Greg , along with a well-oiled staff of workers will make your visit most memorable!

I know that they did for Frank, Caitlin, Andrew and me! BY THE WAY- they have a great beer list and we saw a fantastic Bloody Mary ( next time, for sure!) https://www.facebook.com/ChiCulinaryKitchen/?ti=as

They also do special events and catering. The new location will have extended hours and I can’t wait to share the news with you!

FYI The “food Truck” will be offering their great stuff on Friday, the 16th at Phase Three Bowling in Lake Zurich. From 5 p.m. until they are out of food ( figure about 7 p.m.)