Tailgate BBQ Tips & Chicago’s Best Smoky Eats

Tailgating is more than pre-game fuel — it’s about bold flavors, easy crowd-pleasing dishes, and the joy of eating together. And when you bring those same smoky, hearty ideas into the world of brunch and BBQ, you get the best of both worlds: comfort food with a little flair. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you bring tailgate magic to your table — whether it’s in a parking lot, backyard, or weekend brunch spread.

Smoke Smarter, Not Harder

You don’t need a full smoker to get BBQ depth. Use soaked wood chips in a grill, or even add smoked paprika or chipotle to rubs and sauces for that tailgate flavor without the all-day cook.

Brunch twist: Fold smoked brisket or pulled pork into breakfast hash or top a stack of waffles with hot honey chicken.

Build Your Spread Around Shareables

Tailgating is all about food that can be passed around. Think ribs, sliders, wings, or skewers — things you can grab in one hand while holding a drink in the other.

Brunch twist: Mini crab cakes, skillet mac & cheese, or even BBQ pork sliders work just as well on a brunch table as they do at a tailgate.

Don’t Skip the Sides

Sides make the meal feel complete. At a tailgate, it’s coleslaw, potato salad, or chips. For brunch, lean into elevated comfort: cheddar potatoes, roasted veggies, or creamed spinach.

Pro tip: Always balance heavier smoked meats with something fresh, like pickled veggies or a crisp salad, to keep flavors from overwhelming.

Sweet + Smoky = Perfect Pair

Tailgaters love sweet sauces, and brunch always makes room for something indulgent. The combo is unbeatable.

Brunch twist: Cinnamon bourbon brioche or waffles drizzled with maple syrup pair beautifully with BBQ ribs or smoked chicken.

 Pair Drinks Like a Pro

Good drinks complete the experience. For tailgates, beer is the go-to, but brunch opens the door to cocktails that complement smoky flavors.

Try:

• A Smoky Old Fashioned with brisket or ribs

• A Whisky Mash alongside hot honey chicken

• A citrus-forward cocktail, like a mimosa or “Chicago Sunrise,” to cut through rich mac & cheese

Where Chicago Does It Best

Want to skip the prep and get straight to the feast? Join us at State and Lake Chicago Tavern for our BBQ Blues Brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. We’re serving up smoky meats, brunch favorites, and live blues to set the mood. From mac & cheese three ways to seafood omelets, ribs, brisket, and bourbon-kissed brioche, it’s tailgate flavor with a Chicago brunch twist.

 Reserve your spot this weekend and savor the soul of Chicago — one smoky bite at a time.