(847) 475-2229
1727 Benson Ave
Evanston,
IL
60201
42.0489
-87.6831
Neighborhood: Evanston
Merle's Barbecue & Southern Kitchen
What People Are Saying About Merle's Barbeque
The Editor
Peter Behle
Citysearch
The Scene – The theme is country western, with walls decorated with album covers by the likes of Tammy Wynette, Tanya Tucker and Elvis. Corny sayings dot the menu, including the restaurant motto: "BBQ so good, it makes you wanna slap your pappy." It's a loud crowd, so if you're looking for more conversation-friendly decibel levels, request a booth. – – The Food – Hickory-smoked barbecue is the star. A favorite starter is the smoking wings, which are smoked then fried and sauced up. If your group is ravenously hungry, get the Barnyard Platter--a huge tray with two kinds…
09/04/06
Great Beef Ribs!
by saluki68
We have been Merle's regulars for a long time. We are beef rib fans and if you like beef ribs, you'll get great ones here. The ribs are big, meaty, lean and give you a bit of a fight on the bone - definitely not boiled before smoking. Merle's has the leanest beef ribs we've found. There was even one time when when they wouldn't serve them because the quality wasn't right. The sauces are great - try the Texas sauce on the beef ribs and there is a nice selection of sides.
- Pros: Good service.
- Cons: Parking is sometimes tough.
05/19/06
REAL GOOD BBQ
by foodcritic799
With a student going to NU, we've frequented quite a few places inthe Evanston area. Merle's seems to be one that we come back to. The service has always been great, and the St.Louis ribs are fantastic. Give this place a try.
- Pros: St. Louis ribs, SERVICE
- Cons: parking
08/28/04
Best Barbecue We Can Find...
by shiverink
I have been going to Merle's since they first opened and called themselves: Merle's Rib Palace...and you can't keep myself or my husband away!
The barbecue ribs are out of this world! Always tender and falling off the bone. I like the tangy sauce and hubby likes the sweet sauce.
Their chicken is always tender and the portions are generous. We almost always get the rib/chicken combo and we can never eat it all!
- Pros: Delicious food, Fun atmosphere, Good service
The Details on Merle's Barbeque
The Extras:
Kids can entertain themselves at the lower-level game room, with video games, pinball and shuffle board.
Know Before You Go:
Friday and Saturday nights can get crowded--be sure to call ahead for reservations.
What to Drink:
Merle's gives drinks a Western twist. The "Bloody Merley," is a traditional Bloody Mary with barbecue spice rimming the glass and the "Tennessee tea" is Long Island Iced Tea that substitutes bourbon for typical gin.
Category:
Smoking Permitted:
Bar
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