Lem's Bar-B-Q
Despite lack of seating, no-frills eatery is staple for fans of barbecue & ribs served late-night.
Lem's Bar-B-Q is rated 4.1 / 5 from 3,604 Google reviews and sits about 3.2 km (40 min walk) from Halsted station.
General overview
About Lem's Bar-B-Q
Lem’s Bar-B-Q is a historic Chicago barbecue restaurant on the South Side, known for rib tips, hot links, aquarium-smoked barbecue, and classic Chicago-style barbecue sauce. It is primarily a takeout and casual dining stop rather than a conventional sightseeing attraction. None of the details below are live-verified.
- Historic Chicago South Side barbecue institution
- Known especially for rib tips, hot links, and smoked meats
- Classic aquarium-style barbecue pit and Chicago barbecue tradition
- Casual, counter-service atmosphere
- Convenient stop for an authentic local food experience
Things to do here
Rib tips and barbecue plates
Order smoked rib tips, ribs, chicken, or combination plates with traditional sides such as fries, coleslaw, or baked beans.
Chicago-style barbecue
Try the sweet-and-tangy sauce and smoke-forward meats associated with Chicago’s South Side barbecue tradition.
Takeout barbecue
The restaurant is well suited to carrying out a meal, especially for visitors exploring the South Side by car.
Aquarium-style pit viewing
Lem’s is associated with the distinctive Chicago aquarium smoker tradition, in which meats are cooked over a visible charcoal-and-wood pit. Visibility and access may vary during service.
Allow extra time for ordering and preparation, especially during lunch and dinner rushes. Check the current neighborhood parking and transit situation before traveling; the area is best approached with a clear transportation plan.
Reservations are generally not required or typically offered. For large groups or catering-sized orders, call ahead.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Lem's Bar-B-Q is about 3.2 km (~40 min walk) from Halsted station on the Chicago "L".
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Happy Homes
Hotels · 29 min walk
★ 4.8
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Roller Skating and Bowling Center
Restaurants · 34 min walk
★ 4.1
Jewel-Osco
Restaurants · 41 min walk
★ 4.2
Washington Park
Places to visit · 42 min walk
★ 4.5
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Places to visit · 43 min walk
★ 4.7
Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum
Places to visit · 51 min walk
★ 4.9
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Lem's Bar-B-Q from Halsted station?
Lem's Bar-B-Q is about 3216 m (roughly 40 min walk) from Halsted station on the Chicago "L". Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Lem's Bar-B-Q rated?
Lem's Bar-B-Q has a Google rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 3,604 reviews.
What's near Lem's Bar-B-Q?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Happy Homes, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Roller Skating and Bowling Center, Jewel-Osco.
Is there parking near Lem's Bar-B-Q?
Google lists these parking options near Lem's Bar-B-Q: free parking lot, paid parking lot, free street parking.
Is Lem's Bar-B-Q good for children?
Google does not list Lem's Bar-B-Q as particularly suited to children — check current details before visiting with kids.
Are dogs allowed at Lem's Bar-B-Q?
Google does not list Lem's Bar-B-Q as allowing dogs.
Does Lem’s Bar-B-Q require tickets?
No. It is a restaurant with no general admission ticket. Guests pay for their food and drinks.
Should I make a reservation?
Reservations are generally not expected for ordinary visits. Call ahead for large parties, catering, or unusually large takeout orders.
What should I order?
Rib tips are one of the signature choices. Hot links, ribs, smoked chicken, combination plates, and classic sides are also associated with the restaurant.
How long should I plan to spend there?
Allow roughly 30–60 minutes for a normal meal, with additional time possible during busy periods or for large takeout orders.
Is Lem’s suitable for tourists without a car?
It may be reachable by Chicago public transportation, but the most convenient route depends on your starting point. Check current CTA directions and allow time for the surrounding South Side journey.
Can I pay by card?
Payment methods can change. Bring a backup payment method and confirm current card and cash policies before ordering.
Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility information is not reliably available from existing knowledge. Contact the restaurant before visiting if step-free access or accessible restroom facilities are important.
Are these details current?
No. This information is based on general training knowledge and has not been checked live. Prices, hours, menu items, payment methods, and policies should be confirmed through the official website or directly with Lem’s before relying on them.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.