A Rich Legacy and Southern Smoke Roots
Big Ed’s BBQ was founded by Eddie Nero, a South Side of Chicago native who took his love for authentic barbecue and turned it into a beloved Waukegan institution when it opened in 2008, relocating in 2012. He fashioned his techniques after traditional charcoal “aquarium-style” smokers from his upbringing but upgraded operations using Southern Pride smokers to deliver that perfect smoke ring and tender bite. Over the years, Big Ed’s has earned widespread recognition, ranking among the Midwest’s top BBQ spots, including being listed in Yelp’s Top 100 regional restaurants.
Signature Meats with Personality
The menu highlights include slow-smoked baby back ribs, rib tips, burnt ends (sometimes hailed as “meat candy”), brisket, and hot links—all trimmed, seasoned with a dry rub, and smoked to perfection. A generous selection of six house-made sauces is always available at your table, letting the meat shine while giving you customizable flavor options. Customer favorites frequently include pulled pork, full slab dinners, brisket sandwiches, and the highly praised burned end sammy, supported by a lineup of thoughtful sides.
From Regulars to Raving Fans
Patrons can’t stop talking about Big Ed’s. On Yelp, it enjoys a stellar 4.7 rating from hundreds of reviews, with praise for its generous portions, friendly service, and high-quality, scratch-made food. Locals and BBQ lovers alike express their devotion online—one Reddit user calls it “the only all-around good BBQ spot in northern Illinois,” noting, “the burnt ends I had here… were the best piece of BBQ I’ve had.” Another gushes, “Best BBQ within a couple of hundred miles, no doubt,” and urges diners to come early for their greens. Its charm extends beyond food: one regular describes it charmingly as being “like ‘Cheers’ here,” thanks to its welcoming atmosphere.
Growth, Ambiance, and What to Expect
Originally based in a remodeled Pizza Hut off Highway 120, the restaurant has since expanded into a much larger venue—a former banquet hall converted to accommodate up to 125 diners comfortably. The ambiance remains casual and warm, combining no-frills counter service with inviting bar seating, and even outdoor dining options during warmer months. Prices are modest for the quality—you can expect to pay around $14 for a pulled-pork sandwich and up to $23 for a full slab dinner. Be aware, though, that popular items like burnt ends can sell out quickly—getting there early is often recommended.
You Need To Visit!
Big Ed’s BBQ isn’t just another barbecue spot—it’s a community cornerstone where tradition meets taste. With expertly smoked meats, memorable sides, engaging owner-driven service, and a friendly vibe, it’s easy to understand why both locals and guests trek out to Waukegan for meals here. Whether you’re after brisket so tender it’s dubbed “meat candy,” cornbread muffins that follow you home in memory, or that perfect, tangy slice of key lime pie, Big Ed’s serves up both flavor and familiarity in equal measure.