Big city eats since ’94

Open since the summer of 1994, The Smoke Daddy was the first of its kind to offer barbeque and free live music seven days a week in Wicker Park. Over the years, The New York Times, National Geographic, Zagat survey, Chicago magazine, and the Chicago Social all rated "The Daddy" as "having Chicago's best barbeque". Our concept is simple: top quality barbeque, cold drinks and music in a lively atmosphere. We smoke all of our meats in house each day and take pride in offering the best ribs and pulled meats in town.

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Listen Live

We can’t wait to welcome you back with live music soon! We’re a favorite venue among MANY musicians such as Jimmy Lee Robinson, Willie “Big Eyes” Smith, Billy Boy Arnold, Kim Wilson and Jerry Portnoy.

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One of the best sounding venues in the city and a pillar of the Chicago blues scene.
— Andrew Diehl & the Nightmen

The original cold ones

Our beer and cocktail menu is just like the Midwest: straightforward and classic. Alongside an extensive list of draft and bottle options, we have curated throwback cocktails, a killer Bloody Mary and rotating slushies. Our pared down wine menu is tailored to complement your BBQ meal.

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