The Rugby World Cup is well under way and if you weren’t lucky enough to nab yourself a ticket, hot-foot it down to Chicago Rib Shack and treat yourself to a sensational side of Ribs with your Rugby!
The Chicago Rib Shack was born from a delicious dream, the owner, the late Bob Payton had over 30 years ago. He wanted to bring the most authentic American BBQ restaurant to Europe and boy did he. Since then hundreds of restaurants across London have followed suit trying to replicate this All-American BBQ style but none with as much determination and passion as Chicago Rib Shack. The first Chicago Rib Shack opened in Knightsbridge to a glowing reception however after Bob Payton died the restaurant sadly closed. Just three years ago, Chicago Rib Shack re-opened and boasts a menu curated with as much love and soul as when Bob had his dream all those years ago.
We were privileged enough to try out their mouth-watering menu and cocktails whilst enjoying a game of footy on the TV. Naturally the Ribs were my top option all round, but as I was dining with a Veggie, opted for the Baby Back Ribs instead of the Ribshack Top 4 which also includes Beef Ribs… next time for sure. The Ribs were succulent, tender and melt in your mouth delicious with a side of Sweet Potato Fries and Mac n Cheese all three complimented each other just right. The portions were generous but the food was so delicious I could have easily had more out of pure appreciation for the treats they had to offer. We also ordered a portion of Mac and Cheese bites, I must confess I am a Mac and Cheese connoisseur so if this is on the menu, it’s getting ordered. The Mac and Cheese side order also comes with optional Jalapeños or Bacon but we chose to get it plain. My favourite thing about it was the sauce was just the perfect balance of creamy and light, not too stodgy like some, not overly salted like a lot of other restaurants, and the pasta was cooked perfectly. The Mac and Cheese bites were like little Arancini balls filled with yummy Mac and Cheese, again the perfect consistency without the excessive salt and stodge, served with a delicious tomato jam. Alongside the Ribs, these complimented perfectly with yummy tender meat. For the Veggie option we opted for the Veggie Stack Burger which is a Grilled Courgette, Sweet Potato and Aubergine topped with Red Pesto, Goats Cheese and Rocket. This could only be described as the most delicious tasting Veggie option which we’ve ever had and trust us, we eat out a lot. As well as just Ribs, Chicago Rib Shack offer a range of Salads, Grilled Chicken and Fish Cakes just in case you don’t fancy any Ribs but to be honest, major food envy will consume you and once you’ve had a taste you will be making your way back here to try all of the other options on the menu.
The overall ambience of the place is laid back and in true American style, welcoming and friendly. We dined at the Clapham branch and being set under the arches, the interior was enough to create a relaxed atmosphere but still special enough for a date night or special evening out. The staff were every bit as wonderful as the food and went above and beyond our call of duty, even letting us order cocktails off menu even though the selection was more than ample!
Chicago Rib Shack have branches in Clapham, Westfield Stratford, Twickenham and Leeds. They also run a host of other deals; see below for our favourites. So fear not if you don’t manage to get down for Ribs and Rugby, make sure to check them out regardless because you would be ‘Rib’-iculous not too!
Mondays – 50% of all food after 5pm
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday – 2 for 1 on all Cocktails
Thursday – Burger Day, Burgers, Fries and a Drink for a tenner
