One of my fondest memories as a lad was stopping by the spot on 59th and Racine in the heart of Englewood on the Southside of Chicago just before closing to get a Barbecued Beef sandwich with fries. But, that was in the 70s. Whoa, I was thinking about Leon's, not Lem's. Lem's has those center cut ribs and hot links which are my personal favorites. My wife's now deceased aunt hipped me to that combo a long time ago, and it's been a hit with me ever since. I wish they offered delivery, because that line that runs out the door and down the street is a little too much for me at my age, especially in the winter. They are a neighborhood gem, so more power to them.

staple in the black community. I've been coming here for years and have always had a good experience. Go early the line gets long. Food is good.

A1 since Day 1, great food, prices and bless these people and their lungs for serving us!

The food is Fantastic!! I love the ladies that work the cash register because they keep the line flowing. In and Out, shout out to the staff for their hard work.

Lem's still has the best rib tips in Chicago! I always buy 1 gallon of Lem's BBQ sauce to douse on the chicken and pork that cook at home. It is that good.

I fell for the hype and pulled up to the famous Lem's BBQ. It was really good! I ordered the JBL special, which allowed me to sample everything. The portions are worth the coins. I arrived at 5 pm on Sunday. I made it inside the door at 5:30. I walked away from the restaurant at 5:45. Perfect timing! After I ordered, everyone behind me had to wait 20 minutes for the new links to finish cooking. Its a small establishment and can only hold 5 people inside. The line was casual flowing, and they were playing some good 90s R&B while we waited in line. The customer service was decent, while inside, 2 of the employees were arguing and using strong profanity. The crew ignored them, so I'm assuming this is common. Either way, that wasn't very professional, and someone should have nipped it in the butt. Nonetheless, I would recommend this spot and would pull up the next time I'm in the Chi.

I've been wanting to come here for years, and apparentlt, it's the first Black-owned barbecue spot in Chicago. I'm happy to report that I was well pleased with my visit. The vibes were immaculate (customers and workers were both lovely and fun to chat with while we waited), and lots of regulars coming in. The food was delicious - we got the rib tips and links combo as well as an order of fried shrimp. The prices are great, and I do wish I'd tried their fried chicken too (just to sample), since other people seemed to really like it. I especially enjoyed the tips and the fried shrimp was wonderful (I admit I love a fried item and fried shrimp in general might be one of my perfect foods). But definitely get the rib tips and links because that's what they're known for. As an FYI, My friend and I came here on a spring night and unsurprisingly, there was a bit of a line. I'd read reviews talking about lines in winter, so I was ready to wait. I would definitely factor that in if you're a newbie like me, so don't come too hungry because it's also takeout only, so you'll have to factor in transporting it home.

Some of the best bbq I've had in chicago. The wait time was 45 minutes in the cold but it was worth it. The smokey smell of cooked chicken pork and beef was in the air increasing our appetite as we waited. I was not a fan of the fries or potato salad so don't get your hopes up like I did. The potato salad was heavy on the mayonnaise and didn't taste homemade. Fried chicken was well flavored but would have appreciated them separating it from the rest. Ribs were out of this world flavor and texture falling of the bone. Highly recommend. First time and everyone in line was super kind and fun to talk to -- a bunch of older folks which was a sign the place was good!

Was one of the first cars in the lot on a Wednesday right before opening. If it wasn't for a worker waving me to get in line I would have ended up waiting for more than an hour. This is a grab and go establishment and you WILL most likely have to wait for your food. Decided to get the JBL special to try a mix and match of what the hype is about. The rib tips and chicken wings stood out to me in terms of flavor and meat quality. I can see how this is one of the better BBQ spots in the greater Chicago area but if you're looking for a place to compete with Texas or Kansas City BBQ you will probably be disappointed. I would recommend getting the sauce on the side otherwise the thickness and strength of the sauce will easily overpower the meats. Overall, I'd say this is one of the best BBQ places in the city if you are willing to wait at least 30 minutes and drive to the south side for a meal you will most likely have to eat back at home.