Our Midwestern standards for BBQ are so much higher than the rest of the country, it's not even funny. That's why a declaration that one is superior to all the rest gets my attention. That being said, food experts (really) say for the best BBQ in Illinois, you need to not go to Chicago, but a completely different destination instead.
Fridays are a popular night for dining out. If it's 'no meat Fridays' for you, these are the places that may tempt you the most, with their meaty ways.