Lem’s Bar-B-Q in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago barbecue is a thing. In fact, it lost a titan a few years ago when James Lemons, who was the operator and owner of Lem’s Bar-B-Q, passed away. He was the last man in a group of brothers that put the Windy City on the map as far back as the ‘40s. Despite this, the establishment is still a destination that you can’t miss if you want to eat rib tips. This is a glorious, gelatinous Chicago barbecue staple that will make the trip worth it. If you do not want to pick your way through cartilage and bone, you can always get the spareribs instead. This item off the menu is iconic in its own right.

Lem’s Bar-B-Q In Chicago, Illinois
Lewis Barbecue in Charleston, South Carolina
While North and South Caroline is pork country, Texas native John Lewis is putting Charleston’s barbecue scene on the map. He does this by selling brisket that he has perfected over the course of a decade. This task requires custom-built smokers to make it perfect. This brisket is not the most exclusive item on the menu as the beefy short ribs are strictly available on Saturdays. There is no need to worry as it does justice to porcine pursuits such as spareribs and pulled pork. After all, it is still in South Carolina.

Lewis Barbecue In Charleston, South Carolina