7 Great Vegetarian Barbecue Options In Chicago

Barbecue isn't just for carnivores

by Ashok Selvam@Shokdiesel Jun 16, 2016, 10:18am CDT

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by Ashok Selvam@Shokdiesel Jun 16, 2016, 10:18am CDT

The Smoke Daddy

Barbecue can be a polarizing topic for vegetarians. Many, including those who participated last week at a protest at Rib Fest, detest anything to do with the practice. However, others —perhaps recent converts— have certain cravings for textures and flavors associated with the cooking method. Unfortunately, it's slim pickings at most barbecue restaurants when it comes to vegetarian entrees. Many folks want to go beyond building a meal with sides.

But hold out hope and check out this list of great meatless entrees that give vegetarians a taste of barbecue. If there's any missing, feel free to list them in the comments. Listed alphabetically.

Alice & Friends' —Korean BBQ

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Alice & Friends' continues where Loving Hut left off. The vegan spot's Korean BBQ includes protein stir-fried with veggies and a spicy sauce.

5812 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60660

Chicago Q —Veggie Kebobs

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Chicago Q, now with Art Smith as pitmaster, has a healthy veggie kebob plate for those not interested in meat substitutes.

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1160 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 642-1160

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Kitchen 17 —BBQ Sandwich

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Kitchen 17 in Lakeview serves up chipotle barbecue seitan, on a French roll with peppers and onions, along with crispy kale. It's reminiscent of the menu item in the photo that pops in and off the menu.

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3132 N. Broadway

(773) 661-1757

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Milt's Barbecue for the Perplexed —Smoked Seitan Sandwich

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Milt's actually has three great veggie options. There's the quinoa/lentil veggie burger and the char tofu (pictured). But the smoked seitan is the most interesting. They take seitan from Upton's, smoke it in house with a barbecue rub and toss it in homemade barbecue sauce and caramelized onions.

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3411 N Broadway St, Chicago, IL 60657

(773) 661-6384

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Smoke Daddy — BBQ Veggie Burger

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Sure, most barbecue spots will let you make a veggie meal out of sides, but over at Smoke Daddy, their BBQ Veggie Burger gives vegetarians a delicious main dish. House-made veggie patty (black beans, garlic, cumin, farro, roasted red pepper, spring onions) lays on top of their fresh coleslaw.

1804 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 772-6656

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