Wicker Park

Celebrating 31 years of BBQ, Beer & Blues

Neighbors, friends, and longtime regulars:

Thirty-one years ago, Smoke Daddy Wicker Park opened with a small stage, an even smaller smoker, and no idea that our corner of Division Street would become home to so many memories.

Since 1994, you’ve filled this room with music, laughter, late-night stories, spilled drinks, friendships, break-ups, make-ups, and more memories than we could ever count. From our spot behind the bar, we watched Michael Jordan bring home the Bulls' second three-peat in a decade (after a stint with the White Sox - remember that?), the Sox sweep the Astros in '06, the Blackhawks cement their dynasty at the 2015 Stanley Cup, and the Cubs win it all in 2016. It was our honor to step into the Smoke Daddy legacy in 2004, and an honor to continue it now.

As we prepare to close the Wicker Park location on January 4, 2026, we want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts. It has been the joy of our lives to serve this neighborhood. But make no mistake: this isn’t goodbye. The weeks ahead will be packed with live music, greatest-hits dishes from the early days, throwback nights with 1994 pricing, all-day happy hours, tailgates, a patio pig roast, and one hell of a final New Year’s weekend together. Our full events calendar can be found below.

The Smoke Daddy legacy will continue in Wrigleyville, but for now, we hope you’ll stop by so we can thank you in person and raise a glass to 31 unforgettable years.

With love and gratitude,

Smoke Daddy Wicker Park FAQ

FAQ

When is the final day of service at Smoke Daddy Wicker Park?

January 4, 2026. Until then, we're throwing a full Farewell Tour with live music, tailgates, throwback pricing, and fan-favorite dishes.

Will Smoke Daddy still exist after Wicker Park's retirement?

Absolutely. Smoke Daddy lives on at our Wrigleyville location — serving the same house-smoked BBQ, beer, bourbon, and game-day energy you know and love. Our line of BBQ sauces and Bloody Mary mixes will continue to be available.

What happens to the staff at the Wicker Park location?

Our team is being offered opportunities across other 4 Star Restaurant Group restaurants, including Smoke Daddy Wrigleyville, Frasca, Crosby's Kitchen, The Perch, and more. Supporting our staff is a top priority throughout this transition.

Will gift cards still be accepted?

Yes. Gift cards may be redeemed at Smoke Daddy Wicker Park until we close our doors. All Smoke Daddy and 4 Star Restaurant Group gift cards will continue to be honored at all 4 Star locations, including Smoke Daddy Wrigleyville.

Will rewards still be accepted?

Absolutely. You can continue to earn points and redeem rewards at Smoke Daddy Wicker Park until January 4th. All earned rewards remain eligible for redemption at any 4 Star restaurant, including Smoke Daddy Wrigleyville.

Are you opening another BBQ restaurant in Wicker Park?

We're cooking up a brand-new concept for the Division Street space — one designed specifically for today's Wicker Park community. Details will be announced in 2026.

How are private events and catering orders, including Thanksgiving, being handled?

Thanksgiving catering is not impacted. All private events and catering orders under contract through the end of the year are being honored without adjustment. Our Events and Catering team has reached out to 2026 bookings with alternative solutions for upcoming events. If you have any questions, please contact the team at SDevents@4srg.com

How can I make sure I don't miss updates on the new concept?

Join our email list at the bottom of the page and follow @smokedaddybbq on Instagram for the latest announcements, behind-the-scenes updates, and first looks at what comes next.