Smokehouse on Clark Street- “smoking GOOD!”

[rating=5] Most of you know that for over 30 years I was a Cubs season ticket holder, so I spent a lot of time in the Wrigleyville area. During the years since they became “winners”, the area has changed and a lot of new dining spots have been added. One of these is an amazing BBQ spot called Old Crow Smokehouse. Instead of the logo, I am featuring a picture of Chef Heraclio Bel Montes and some of the meat just taken out of the smoker. Jane and I were joined tonight by our good friend, who just happens to live in the area, Paul Lisnek, to sample the wonderful meats on this menu.

To best sample BBQ, instead of ordering specific items, we let the chef prepare his favorites. We enjoyed brisket nachos, a Caribbean Jerk Chicken, one of their new items, the Old Crow Burger ( juicy and tender combo of meat with all that you might want- if you prefer no 1,000 Island, tell them) and that was just the start.

I must tell you about their french fries. They were unique in flavor and what we learned is that there is an Old Crow Rub ( unavailable to the public) that is used on their meats and potatoes- wow- the flavor is amazing!

The sweet cornbread is “to die for” and the Chicken Quesadillas are probably the best I have ever tasted.

The sauces that they use are their own concoctions and mixtures make the food zesty and flavorful. Some of the side items that we tasted were unique as well. The honey pickles were a delight, the summer pickles, were better than usual and the pickled onions were a great addition to the burger. The cole slaw was not as creamy as I am used to, but was very flavorful and did not detract from the meal.

We also had pork Quesadillas and of course, their ribs, pork baby back ( taken from the top of the rib cage and seasoned with their rub)- wow!

FYI- They have burnt ends on the menu, pulled pork, salmon, a sandwich ( that I will definitely try next visit)Brisket Mac N Cheese sandwich ( here I come) and of course, they have mac n” cheese , Baked Beans and old fashioned potato salad. Our server , Aubrey was a delight and made sure that all of our expectations were exceeded.

I must tell you that this is a well oiled dining machine. The staff is attentive to your every need. The walls are filled with TV screens for sports fanatics and they have plenty of seating areas to choose from. We sat facing Clark Street where they can open the outside walls a bit and we could feel the excitement of the area, even with the Cubbies out of town. This has become an even more vibrant area than in days of yore with some great additions to what were the old established bars of the past.

The Old Crow Smokehouse is located at 3506 N. Clark Street. They are open:                                 Thursday and Friday from 5 p.m.- 1 a.m.

call 773-537-4452                                                                                                                           Saturdays  11 am- 2 a.m ( brunch 10 am-3 p.m.)

Sundays  11 a.m.- 11 p.m.  ( brunch available as well)   www.oldcrowsmokehouse.com

Our experience was one that will be remembered, for sure, with a menu that was incredible. However, this weekend, it will change. The Caribbean Jerk Chicken will remain as well as the brisket dishes, but there are many  new items, so check out their website to see. Better yet, get in the car or hop on the bus and get over to Clark and Addison for something very special. On the website you will also find the events section that will give you even more reasons to visit Wrigleyville! Enjoy!