Learn BBQ Secrets From Pro Pitmasters

BBQ Supply Co is a three-in-one operation: excellent, pit-smoked BBQ, an enormous selection of local craft beers, and BBQ courses that range from starter sessions for home cooks to master classes for barbecue competitors. You’d probably be surprised to learn that this now barbecue behemoth in Rogers Park started out as a tiny take-out joint called Rub’s Backcountry Smokehouse run by husband and wife team Jared and Amanda Leonard.

Over the past seven years, the Leonard family has expanded their business into one of the most successful barbecue operations in Chicago, with two large, live-fire barbecue pits that churn out wood-smoked goodness six days a week. The best way to experience BBQ Supply Co. is to attend one of the restaurant’s Pit-to-Plate dinners, where, for $40, you can get practically unlimited barbecue, stew, sides, and dessert, plus a demonstration from a pitmaster.

Pro Tip: The Mac and Cheese and Custard Stuffed Cornbread are not to be missed.