There aren’t enough words to describe just how amazing the ribs are at this place! We stopped by later in the evening because earlier the line was wrapped around the building. That alone tells you how good the food is, people are more than willing to wait.
We ordered the fried shrimp, ribs, rib tips, fried chicken, potato salad, and, of course, the French fries came with your order. Every single item was delicious, but the rib tips completely stole the show. They were incredibly tender, flavorful, and practically fell off the bone. The barbecue sauce was outstanding and brought everything together perfectly.
The staff working behind the counter were just as impressive as the food. They were friendly, funny, welcoming, and patient. Since we were visiting from Houston, Texas, and it was our first time eating there, they took the time to answer our questions and made us feel right at home.
I honestly wish I could have their food shipped back to Houston! If I ever return to Chicago, this will absolutely be one of my first stops. Between the incredible food and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, they’ve earned a lifelong customer.
One small note: because we visited at night and the area is brightly lit, there were quite a few flying tiny white insects flying around due to only the bright lights. That definitely didn’t take away from the food or the outstanding service, but it’s something to be aware of while standing outside in the line in the evening.
There is no seating it is take out only. Be prepared to wait in line but know that it is always fresh! We really enjoyed the food. It is a different sort of BBQ sauce, more of a vinegar base than the typical sweet sauce but it is yummy and definitely worth trying! We got the JBL which is a mixed plate and loved all of it! We got the sauce on the food and it was great but it did make it way messier since we were eating in the car so maybe I would on the side next time just to make it easier to manage in the car or plan to take it somewhere with a table. Also the wait is outside, it was shaded so no big deal but may be an issue if it is raining or really cold out. Also we got large plates and there was tons of food so it is a really good deal for what you get! Loved it!
First time being here... The line was a little long it was like a 30min wait. It wasn't so bad because the have over head heaters on the building. This only helps if your farther up in line. First red flag I saw the cook pulling the ribs out the box and putting them right on the grill. Hopefully they washed the meat to remove reside that is often on the meat and placed them back in the box. Probably not but I dont know.
The lady at the cash register has a horrible attitude. She seems like a nasty miserable person. She is out right rude. If the food was good I wouldnt come back just off of her terrible attitude. There are too many places you can patronize. Without having to deal with ignorance.
Now back to the food. They give you a big portion. However the good is subpar at best. We had rib tips, and chicken. This food is an absolute waste. The sauce is vinegary. I'm not a fan at all. The ribs are NOT seasoned well at all. The ribs can not stand alone without sauce like other bbq places. This place is over hyped. This is NOT good bbq. You can make better at home and just use grocery store sauce.
Go ahead and make the trip to I57 bbq or Kirks Bbq (ask for no sauce, their ribs definetly stand alone) in South Holland.
Sorry to say Lem's is a waste of money. I will Never go back even if it was free.
Last go around didnt like the customer service. The owner the lady is rude and mean asl the way she was yelling and telling the men in the back go get your people and telling them they had to get out is pretty rude . We already had to wait an additional 15 mins in the cold because they ran out meat.
It was cold wind blowing the place already small and we body to body then she mean.
The man on the grill swinging the meat & half was burnt and half was done some was pink
I will never come back especially if this how you treat customers sending in the cold wanting food! The men are respectful and try to keep the peace .
The barbecue was good needed more sauce my husband liked the sausage I thought it was a little dry tips was not very tender I got two different meals The JBL special and a small combo
