RESTAURANT REVIEW: Milt's Barbecue for the Perplexed

“At Milt’s, we don’t just feed your body. We feed your mind. From the moment you walk in our doors, you’ll feel it. There’s an energy that runs through the air like electricity, inspiring conversation, connection and community.” Milt’s promise to his customers

After a year in Covid-19 isolation, Milt’s Barbecue for the Perplexed in Lakeview is the perfect place to re-connect with friends, family and neighbors over delectable Kosher barbecue, just half a mile from Wrigley Field.

True to its Kosher traditions, you won’t find pork, dairy with meat, or shellfish on the menu. Nor is Milt’s open on Saturday night, out of respect to the Sabbath. And Fridays are takeout only, for limited hours.

What you will find is some of the best smoked, fried, and grilled meats, poultry and vegetarian options in the neighborhood. Nosh on brisket empanadas or Tofu tenders before ordering a Milt’s Way from the grill–with brisket chili, “bacon,” crispy onion, and bbq aioli. A smoked seitan sandwich, tossed with BBQ sauce and caramelized onions, or a “Nosh”ville Hot Chicken—a spicy fried chicken breast tossed in special sauce on a toasted pretzel bun.

Here’s another exciting feature at Milt’s: the perplexing proportions of the full slab of barbecue ribs. At $90 per slab, several online reviews compared them to the Flintstones’ brontosaurus slabs, good for an entire family. “The full slab of beef ribs is easily a dinner for 2, if not three,” wrote one Google reviewer. “The smoked chicken is one of the best in the city. They make their own corn bread with maple butter, which is out of this world.”

On the lighter side, try the Baby Spinach and Snap Pea Salad, with fresh orange segments, torn mint, and pumpkin seeds, served with citrus honey vinaigrette for a healthy change of pace. And you can wash it all down with Milt’s Martini, served straight up with gin or vodka. For something spicier, Milt’s offers a Bloody Jalapeno- the ultimate Bloody Mary with jalapeño-infused vodka, garnished with a homemade beef-‘bacon’ skewer. Your meal comes to a sweet conclusion with Milt’s Chocolate Mousse with spicy caramel drizzle, homemade brownies, or seasonal bread pudding. A kid’s menu offers go-to favorites, including chicken tenders and kosher hot dogs.

Located at 3411 N. Broadway, Chicago, IL 60657, Milt’s is open for dinner Sundays-Thursdays, 5-9 pm, and Fridays from 12-2 pm for takeout only. Reservations are highly recommended. For more information, visit their website at http://www.miltsbbq.com.

Alison Moran and Dean’s Team Chicago