Located at 589 Elm Pl, Highland Park, IL 60035, The Bbq Pit stands as a dedicated destination for those who appreciate the time-honored traditions of authentic barbecue. Our establishment is built on the foundation of patience, quality ingredients, and a deep respect for the craft of slow-cooking meats. We believe that great barbecue is not just about the final product, but about the process—the careful selection of wood, the precise management of heat, and the dedication required to achieve the perfect texture and flavor profile. Whether you are a local resident or visiting the Highland Park area, we invite you to experience a culinary environment where the focus remains entirely on the integrity of the food and the comfort of our guests.
At The Bbq Pit, we understand that barbecue is a deeply personal experience. It is comfort food that brings people together, whether for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a gathering of friends. Our kitchen operates with a commitment to consistency and excellence, ensuring that every plate served reflects our passion for the art of the pit. We prioritize sourcing quality meats and preparing them with techniques that honor regional styles while maintaining our own unique identity. By keeping our menu focused and our methods traditional, we strive to provide a dining experience that feels both familiar and exceptional.
What Sets Our Approach Apart
Commitment to Traditional Techniques: We prioritize slow-cooking methods that allow the natural flavors of the meat to develop fully. By utilizing specific wood types and maintaining steady temperatures, we ensure that every cut is prepared with the attention it deserves.
Quality-Focused Sourcing: We believe that the foundation of great barbecue begins with the quality of the raw ingredients. We work to select cuts that meet our standards for freshness and marbling, ensuring a consistent and satisfying result for every guest who walks through our doors.
A Welcoming Atmosphere: Our location on Elm Place is designed to be a comfortable space where the community can gather. We focus on creating an environment that is unpretentious and inviting, allowing the quality of the food to take center stage while providing friendly and efficient service.
Dedication to the Craft: Barbecue is a labor-intensive process that cannot be rushed. Our team is dedicated to the daily rituals of the pit, from early morning preparations to the careful monitoring of the smoke, ensuring that our standards are upheld throughout every hour of operation.
The Philosophy Behind Our Kitchen
The essence of The Bbq Pit lies in our belief that simplicity often yields the most profound results. In an era where culinary trends change rapidly, we choose to remain anchored in the fundamentals of smoke and fire. We do not rely on shortcuts or artificial enhancements; instead, we trust in the power of patience and the natural synergy between heat and seasoning. This philosophy extends to every aspect of our operation, from the way we organize our kitchen to the way we interact with our patrons. We view our role not just as a restaurant, but as a contributor to the local food culture of Highland Park, providing a reliable space for those who value authentic, well-prepared meals.
Our team is composed of individuals who share a genuine enthusiasm for the barbecue craft. We are constantly refining our processes, learning from the nuances of each cook, and listening to the feedback of our community. This ongoing dialogue helps us maintain the high standards that our guests have come to expect. We understand that when you choose to dine with us, you are looking for more than just a meal; you are looking for a moment of enjoyment and a taste of something prepared with care. It is this understanding that drives us to show up every day, fire up the pits, and continue the work that defines The Bbq Pit.
Join Us at The Bbq Pit
We invite you to visit us at 589 Elm Pl, Highland Park, IL 60035, to enjoy a meal that celebrates the timeless tradition of barbecue. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast or simply looking for a satisfying dining experience in the heart of Highland Park, we look forward to welcoming you. Our doors are open to those who appreciate the effort that goes into a well-smoked meal and the simple pleasure of sharing good food with others. Thank you for supporting our commitment to quality and for making us a part of your local dining experience.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Serves local specialty
Sports
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Hard liquor
Quick bite
Vegetarian options
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy
Quiet
Crowd
Family-friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safespace
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Usually plenty of parking
Menus
APPETIZERS
Beer Battered Onion Rings$10.99
Breaded Zucchini$10.99
Beer Battered Mushrooms$10.99
Buffalo Wings$15.99
Rib Tips$19.99
1/2 slab Rib sampler$19.99
Buffalo Shrimp$15.99
Battered Mozzarella Sticks$10.99
Buffalo Fingers$15.99
Burgers/Sandwiches: includes French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries and Cole Slaw.
Texas Brisket$18.99
Pulled Pork$18.99
BBQ Meatloaf$18.99
Skirt Steak topped with Grilled Onions$24.99
BBQ Chicken Sandwich$16.99
Turkey Burger$16.99
Da Burger$17.99
Chicken Shish Kebob on Pita$18.99
Buffalo Chicken$16.99
The Big Tuna$19.99
Gyros$17.99
Pure BBQ: includes choice of potato, Cole Slaw and Rolls.
Baby Back Ribs Full Slab$33.99
Baby Back Ribs 1/2 Slab$23.99
Tennesee Honey Ribs Full Slab$33.99
Tennesee Honey Ribs 1/2 slab$23.99
Sallys Dry Rub Full Slab$34.99
Texas Brisket$33.99
Pulled Pork Platter$33.99
Dem Beef Bones$34.99
Rib Tips$33.99
BBQ Pork Chops$34.99
Half Chicken$23.99
Boneless Breast of Chicken$23.99
BBQ Salmon$33.99
Skirt Steak$37.99
BBQ Meatloaf$33.99
Rib/Chicken Combo$34.99
Rib/Shrimp Combo$34.99
Rib/Chop Combo$34.99
Rib/Brisket Combo$34.99
BBQ Jumbo Shrimp$33.99
STEAK AND CHOPS: includes choice of potato or veggie, cole slaw and rolls.
Prime cut Rib Eye Steak$45.99
Prime cut N.Y. Strip$45.99
Skirt Steak$37.99
A LITTLE TASTE OF GREECE: includes roasted potato wedges, cole slaw and rolls.
Half Greek Chicken$24.99
Chicken Shish Kebab$33.99
Greek Boneless Breast of Chicken$24.99
Gyros Platter$26.99
Greek Pork Chops$34.99
Skirt Steak$37.99
Athenian Ribs (Full Slab)$35.99
Spanokopita(Spinach Pie) and Greek Salad$26.99
SEAFOOD(dinners include choice of Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, Baked or Sweet Potato or Vegetable .$1.00 extra.. Cole slaw and rolls included.
Grilled Alaskan Salmon$33.99
Tuna Steak$33.99
Grilled Jumbo Shrimp$33.99
SALADS
Large Greek Salad$16.99
Small Greek Salad$11.99
Large Caesar Salad$16.99
Small Caesar Salad$11.99
Large House Salad$14.99
Small House Salad$9.99
Greek Chicken Salad$23.99
Chicken Caesar Salad$23.99
Skirt Steak Greek Salad$25.99
Seafood Greek Salad$25.99
Gyros Greek Salad$23.99
SIDES
Large Baked Beans$9.99
French Fries$9.99
Sweet Potato Fries$9.99
Baked Potato$6.99
Sweet Potato$6.99
Large Cole Slaw$9.99
Fresh Vegetable of the day.$9.99
DRESSINGS/SAUCES
Gus the Greek Famous Dressing/Marinade Jar$8.99
BBQ Pit BBQ Sauce Jar$8.99
FAMILY SPECIALS$89.99
Photos
Reviews The Bbq Pit
Jinny Hyun
23-04-2026
Owner was so sweet and the food was great!! Serving size was great! Definitely will be back to more items on the menu! More
Eric Saniewski
23-04-2026
Enjoyed the pulled pork. Didn't care for the sweat potato fires but just my preference. Motz sticks were good too. Nice little joint to grab BBQ at, worth stopping for
joe
23-04-2026
Im sure I just got a bad batch of ribs, but the amount of force required to pull the ribs apart was ridiculous. And they use styrofoam to put their food in. Eating/drinking hot stuff out of styrofoam is extremely bad for you.
Dan R
23-04-2026
It was good. Portions were filling. Price was a bit high. I asked for a container for leftovers, and the waitress didn't put my BBQ sauce in the container. Highly disappointed. That's what pulls bbq together!
Lauren Beaulieu
23-04-2026
Awesome curbside service & covid precautions in place. Great price, really tasty BBQ and delivered to our car door! Fries are to die for!! Staff is really friendly. Good place to come check out!!
Michael Broton
23-04-2026
Excellent food, great atmosphere, a fantastic neighbor hood place! We've been going there for 15 years, adding it to our regulars list, so should you!
Stephen Field
23-04-2026
Really nice staff. Tried the Beef Ribs got two huge meaty ribs. Really good taste and well cooked. I would definitely recommend.
James Clemons
23-04-2026
I am new to the area and have been looking for a BBQ place and I've called 3 times on 3 different occasions and have been told each time they've ran out of food.... Updated testimony....since the last post I have been to this establishment several times and I've found the food to be really good. I sincerely take back my earlier post
Judith Eidelman
23-04-2026
We have been coming here for over 24 years.....they have a great menu...great ribs....the atmosphere is warm comfortable and cozy.....we don’t go anywhere else for ribs....my husband picks a different item every time we come here because he can’t decide...he says “everything he chooses is delicious “...
Robert Harrigan
23-04-2026
Disappointed. I just cant express how Disappointed I was in these ribs. I got the baby back ribs half rack and there was almost NO meat on them and they were the opposite of fall off the bone. The were dry, stretchy and chewy and left me … More
J Schwartz
23-04-2026
Food was decent, Greek salad was the best part. Would not go out of may way to go back. I ordered Tennessee Honey ribs and my guest be ordered there baby back ribs. Came with same Bbq sauce for each order.
Renee Lallas
23-04-2026
This is a wonderful neighborhood restaurant. The bbq sauce is the best! Everything has been so fresh and delicious. I’m really glad to have found this hidden gem. More
Keri Malow-Williams
23-04-2026
They are so good to my elderly grandparents which is one of the reasons we are often there. The food is also realty good. My family enjoys their baby back ribs, the Greek salad (with the delicious shrimp), and the pulled pork.
Nichele G.
23-04-2026
Food was delicious and hot! I placed a carryout order lastnight of 3 entrees of baby back ribs & 1 surf n turf entree (shrimp & ribs). The gentleman had my order prepared before I got there. Awesome customer service. My 1st time ordering with them.
TW Hansen
23-04-2026
Unassuming little joint in a northern suburbs strip mall, but without equivocation just about the best brisket I’ve had in my life. It’s down to this place and Elmer’s in Tulsa, OK. With brisket like this it’s no wonder they’ve been in … More
Teresa
23-04-2026
Overall, it was pretty good. Their fries are definitely the best to-go fries we’ve had since COVID. My husband got gyros and a Greek salad. He thought they were both pretty good and would order them again. … More
Angie M
23-04-2026
The food was very impressive and tasty. I had a cup of the soup of the day. Chicken vegetable soup.
My Beau had the burger with everything on it. The crispy fries were delightful. … More
Edward Edick
23-04-2026
I've been ordering from BBQ Pit for a long long time. When I picked it up the food was always fresh, hot, and ready when I was told. I've never had a problem with any order I've ever placed. The people there were always neighborly friendly … More
Adam Lovell
23-04-2026
Found this place while visiting from Ohio. To be honest bbq wasn’t on the menu idea for my family for the evening. By the time we got to order dinner a lot of places closed and this place was open so I checked out the menu. Bbq and Greek is … More
Patrick Wilmot
23-04-2026
This has become one of my favorite local restaurants due to doing what they do extremely well and being genuinely nice people who are invested in the community. … More
Charles Erkenswick
23-04-2026
Cute little saloon style restaurant, love the golf vibe of the restaurant, the food was very good, staff are very friendly especially the host and waitress, foods a little pricey but you’re paying for good quality food so it’s worth it More
Marcy Yablon
23-04-2026
So nice, the owner. And the ribs are amazing. Good portions too...pretty in Pink:)
Order type
Take out
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Group size
Not sure
Euro Dollar
23-04-2026
The ribs were pretty good although a little dry. The chicken wings were basically inedible. They were really dry and I wondered if they were double dipped or something. Was disappointed. More
2Drippy The God
23-04-2026
Walked in and was completely empty, no employees too greet me. As I walked further into the restaurant to investigate. I saw the owner, hiding in a corner booth sitting on his phone. After which i came up to him and spoke very politely, … More
Eliza R
23-04-2026
$84.28 I order 2 rib tips dinners. Definitely didn’t expect that price. The tips were a little tough but tasty More
Seananagins
23-04-2026
Gus was an awesome front of House experience. We ordered 2 gyro sandwiches and a pulled pork. Everything was delicious. It was day 5 at the hospital near by, and their food really hit the spot after almost a week of hospital food. Awesome … More
Marcy Yablon
23-04-2026
So nice, the owner. And the ribs are amazing. Good portions too...pretty in Pink:)
Order type…
More
brian marland
23-04-2026
I carry out from here once a week. Consistently great food. Ive had almost everything on the menu. And the owners treat you like friends. More
Lou Green
23-04-2026
Decades of succulent moist chicken, I can taste that unique flavor right now. Perfect potatoes, fried or baked. The only place for chicken and ribs! We dined there when Gus’s dad and mom were in charge, same taste. Thank you More
Max Kanter
23-04-2026
Really enjoyed the BBQ here. Ordered "Dem Beef Bones" (beef ribs), the Texas Brisket Dinner, and some buffalo wings. … More
Michael M
23-04-2026
Really good food. Even though some of the items felt overcooked slightly, the flavors and juices remained and everything tasted good and fresh. The restaurant was packed and we had to wait for our food, but it was well worth it. Great spot and will visit again. More
Reviews The Bbq Pit