Porky's BBQ and Catering Arlington Heights, Illinois — Restaurant in Wheeling Township

I really wanted to like Porky's. I swear, I really did. But, I found that what I ordered was mostly.....meh. Let's start with the brown butter corn bread. I love brown butter anything; the nuttiness, the richness. However, I found too many things not appealing about this cornbread, first off, the size to price ratio. The cornbread is the size of a min-muffin for $2.50, which, IMHO is far too pricey. But, most importantly the taste -- there's not so much a hint of brown butter as there is an overwhelming flavor of old pan grease; totally unappealing. I was going to re-heat it in the microwave, but after two quick bites, I just gave up. Pass on the cornbread.

Next, the braised collard greens, which are probably in the top 2 of all sides that go with BBQ. Now, truth be told, I did see that they are braised with green apples, which should've been a red flag for me. And red flag it was -- far too sweet, without a hint of pork or other savoriness. The apple cider vinegar barely came through, and that should've saved these poor guys from the bin. I had a bite, then pitched it in the bin along with the corn bread. Pass on the collards.

Now onto the meat - I got a order of ribs and an order of rib tips. First, the ribs -- smoky, meaty, with the chew of a St. Louis style spare rib; these are not baby-back ribs, and if what you're looking for is "fall off the bone tender", these are not it. The smoke really came through, and overall it was nicely done. Note - what is pictured on the web site and what you'll get are two completely different looking things; caveat emptor. 6 out of 10 I would order again, perhaps earlier in the day when they're first out of the smoker. Second, the rib tips -- also smoky, mostly meaty, with quite a bit of fat. Good flavor, but, the prominent fat that was hidden throughout was a bit of a turn off. If you're expecting rib tips like they serve at Lem's or Honey 1 or any of the South Side aquarium smokers, these will disappoint. Much better sauced up and heated, but, I doubt that I'll order these again.

The star of this meal were the sauces. Porky's sauces are really very good. I especially like the Spicy BBQ Sauce, but that Carolina Gold is a very close runner up. I'd buy just the sauce - it's a good quality, high flavor value, and it's house-made, which gives it that edge.

Overall, 3 out of 5 stars for the reasons I've stated above. I'm sorry Porky's, I really, really wanted to like you, as supporting the local restaurants is a passion project for me. I did try you once. But, unfortunately, probably not again. I may be in for a bottle of...

I took my family here after taking my son to the park. It’s a small place with stool seating, I’m not sure how long this place has been there but looks new. Had my 3 year old so seating wasn’t the greatest for a child but he didn’t fall or complain so it’s whatever. Haha. Staff was cool, ordering was easy. We ordered Mac and cheese Pork belly burnt ends (sauce on the side) Fries Hush puppies Pulled pork sandwich Brisket/pulled pork sandwich.

Since it was our first time we got a samples of all their sauces and they threw in some cornbread.

First thing first, the food was hot. Which should be a no brainer but I’ve been to countless bbq joints and for some reason the Mac and cheese is always cool, or barely warm. Mac and cheese was creamy and hot, you can pick up subtle hits of garlic seasoning and whatnot. It wasn’t THE BEST EVER but definitely enjoyable. Some paprika would’ve gone a long way, personal preference.)

Fries, crispy and hot, fluffy inside. Perfect.

Hush puppies, friggin’ delicious my only gripe was that I PERSONALLY would like them a little bigger, but that’s my opinion. Otherwise, flavor was great, crispy outside, soft fluffy inside.

The sandwiches, both were good portions, soft bun and a tasty protein. Having a plethora of sauces on the side was a good move, I personally enjoyed the Alabama white sauce with some of the pork, but the spicy bbq and Carolina was pretty good on the brisket/pork combo sandwich..

Now, the pork belly burnt ends… fu@&, Soft, tender, with some bite, hint of sweetness, paired up with the white sauce and it was outstanding.

I’ll definitely be coming back with...

This place is highly recommended! Especially to those who have a big family and a bunch of friends who really love to hang out and bonding. The food here is unique, quality, and incredibly delicious. All of their food on the menu is really mouth-watering, freshly cooked, and phenomenal. Their portions here are so fair and good. Their serving is very creative. All of it is enjoyable and impressive. This place is full of quality and awesome foods. They have so many offers and deals that can surely satisfy your cravings. Their pricing is so affordable and fair. You can really buy and order anything you want from their menu without breaking your pockets. While eating such amazing food you can also save a lot at this spot. Porky’s BBQ is exceptional! Lots of people keep coming back again and again just to order and grab some of their quality food. Everything at this place is really enjoyable and affordable. Their staff is really kind, friendly, and professional. All of them are energetic and working so fast. They all know how to do their job properly. Also, they are so caring and they are really willing to help and assist the customers so right. Outstanding service. Very reliable and personable staff. This place never disappoints. Porky’s BBQ is really a hidden gem in this area of Arlington Heights. You all must visit this place if you are nearby the area. You will absolutely love everything they have on their menu. Porky’s BBQ is exceptional! I would really love to go back here again soon when I have some free time. Thank you guys for the wonderful experience! I am really impressed! 5-star for you guys! Keep...