This Chicago Spot Made the List of the Best Hole-in-the-Wall Restaurants in the U.S.—And It Just Won a James Beard Award

There is no denying that chain [restaurants](https://secretchicago.com/best-restaurants-in-chicago/) can be irresistibly good —some of Chicago’s best meals come from Lou Malnati’s and Portillo’s, for example. However, some of the best food isn’t found in establishments with hundreds of locations. Instead, it’s often served in a tiny shop with a hidden sign , accompanied by handwritten menus, or in a location without a social media presence . These unsassuming hole-in-the-wall eateries may not look impressive from the outside, but once you step inside, you’ll often discover a meal that will be on your mind long after you leave. From century-old diners to newly opened restaurants, *Food Republic* embarked on a mission to find the very best hole-in-the-wall restaurants across the U.S. The best hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Illinois ---------------------------------------------------- A favorite among them is a beloved Chicago restaurant, Lem’s Bar-B-Q. For over 70 years, the simple barbecue spot has been cherished for its legendary rib tips and signature smoky sauce. Brothers Bruce and Myles Lemons opened their first location in 1954 in Greater Grand Crossing and later expanded to a second location in Chatham. Over its seven-decade run, Lem’s has remained a family-owned and operated business dedicated to serving the South Side. > Lem’s has not only received praise from local fans but professional institutions, too. Between being named one of the best barbecue spots in Chicago by the Chicago Tribune and winning a James Beard America’s Classics Award in 2025, Lem’s is a gem in Chicago’s foodie scene. The James Beard Foundation recognized Lem’s not only for its outstanding food but also for its contributions to the community. Source: https://secretchicago.com/lems-bar-b-q-best-hole-in-the-wall-restaurants-food-republic/