After three decades of serving the classic Chicago BBQ, Smoke Daddy is closing its Wicker Park location. The restaurant’s last day of service will be in January, following the end of the holiday season. Smoke Daddy’s Wrigleyville location will continue to operate and serve the Chicago community.
Iconic Smoke Daddy Ends 31-Year Run in Wicker Park
Located in the heart of Division Street, the Wicker Park location has been the home of Smoke Daddy since 1994. Serving classic American BBQ and bringing the community together with the aroma of food is a staple tradition of Smoke Daddy.
The restaurant earned a reputation for its lively atmosphere, complete with music, chatter, and the scent of smoky BBQ. Over the years, the restaurant earned a strong reputation and fan base in the city with its ‘best ribs and pulled meat in town’ status.
Through an Instagram post, the restaurant shared the announcement of its closure and said, “After 31 unforgettable years of BBQ, blues, and beer, Smoke Daddy Wicker Park will have our final service on Sunday, January 4th.”
The restaurant is owned and operated by 4 Star Restaurant Group, a Chicago-based hospitality company. In addition to Smoke Daddy, the group also manages Frasca, Crosby’s Kitchen, The Perch Kitchen and Tap, and several others.
Wrigleyville Location Stays Open, Serving Its Signature Flavors
Food image of Smoke Daddy (Source: Yelp)Although the Wicker Park location is closing, Smoke Daddy’s Wrigleyville location on Clark Street will remain open. The restaurant announced, “Wrigleyville is still smoking strong, and your gift cards and rewards will continue to be valid at all 4 Star restaurants.”
The restaurant further emphasized that the Thanksgiving orders and pickup services will not be affected. “Thanksgiving orders and pickup will not be affected,” stated the restaurant.
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Community Reaction on Instagram
The closure caught many loyal fans by surprise, prompting an outpouring of messages on Instagram. One customer shared a cherished memory and wrote, “Have loved Smoke Daddy from early 20s memories to eating there with my kids.”
“Heartbroken. You’ve been a Wicker Park institution. Your patio was divine in nice weather, and your warm, comfy booths were a comfort to many on cold Chicago nights,” shared a customer.
In the post, the restaurant added, “We can’t wait to spend the rest of the year partying with you. See you soon.”
The Wicker Park location will permanently close after the holiday season. Smoke Daddy has not shared an official reason for the closure.
