The ‘Best BBQ Joint’ in Illinois Announced & It’s Not in Chicago

Are you sitting down? I sure hope so.

That's because the greatest BBQ joint in the entire state of Illinois is not in Chicago.

I know that's appalling and a bit shocking to some but then again, it's nice that major publications such as Taste of Home recognized there are plenty of great places to chow down on some delicious BBQ without being in the Windy City.

Grace Mannon from Taste of Home listed the very best BBQ joints in America and said Illinois' top spot is in Murphysboro.

Say what? Murphysboro? A trip from Chicago to Murphysboro is five hours but from the sound (and look) of the food at this place no amount of distance should keep us from trying the stuff.

It's called 17th Street Barbecue, and my mouth is watering just thinking about eating at this joint.

Taste of Home:

Featured on Food Network and Travel Channel and the recipient of numerous awards and accolades, 17th Street Barbecue is a landmark establishment. One thing that makes them stand out among barbecue restaurants is their use of their trademarked “magic dust” rub, which you can purchase in their shop.

Rated a solid four out of five on Yelp, reviewers say 17th Street Barbecue is "among the best BBQ places I've been to" and "worth the drive."

However, there are some negative experiences too. One referred to the service as "rude" and the "absolute worst dining experience." While another said, "I would leave a zero if I could."

Woof, not good, but I'm still dying to try it myself.

17th Street Barbecue is open from 10 am to 9 pm Wednesday through Monday and is located at 32 North 17th Street.