One Illinois BBQ Joint Hopes to Take Over Old Der Rathskeller Building in Rockford

When it comes to great places to get BBQ in the 815 area, Little Nick's BBQ on Aubrun Street is usually at the top of most people's list. Not only does Little Nick's serve up some awesome food and meat dishes, but they have awards to prove how awesome they are too...

On my way home yesterday, I noticed for the first time the smokin' shed located behind Little Nick's BBQ and I thought to myself, "looks like Little Nick needs some more room to smoke his meat", and now it looks like I was right!

Little Nick's BBQ Sets Its Sights on Former Der Rathskeller Building

Since they opened in 2021, Little Nick's BBQ has only been able to offer to-go and catering services, but they have always wanted to offer sit-down services too. Now that dream is one step closer to becoming a reality in Rockford.

According to the Rockford Register Star;

The owner of Little Nick’s BBQ in Rockford confirms he has made an offer to purchase the vacant building at 1132 Auburn St. that was the longtime home of Der Rathskeller and most recently, Rathskeller Rockford.

The owner of Little Nick's BBQ,  Thaddeus “Thad” Denthriff ll has teamed up with Todd Cedarleaf, CEO of the Bubble Hive Hemp and CBD Store in Rockford, to purchase the old Der Rathskeller building, and if the sale goes through, they are hoping to have the new location up and running sometime around Thanksgiving.

So, what will happen to the current Little Nick's BBQ location once the new restaurant opens up? Only time will tell, I guess, but I can tell you this...Little Nick's BBQ is also going mobile, so keep your eyes peeled for this fancy new ride on the streets of Rockford soon!