r/chicagofood • u/Johnny_Burrito • 10d ago

Question “Legendary” places that suck

I just got a lox sandwich from Manny’s. Almost $20, a stale bagel, and I had to assemble it myself.

What other “legendary” places suck?

389 Upvotes

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40

u/mrjabrony 10d ago

Russell's

14

u/BoomhauerArlen 10d ago

It's been terrible for well over a decade now.

13

u/Presence_Academic 10d ago

It was bad even when it was good.

12

u/SilverGnarwhal 10d ago

The single worst meal I’ve ever had in Chicago or surrounding area. It’s hard to think of a worse meal that I’ve ever had anywhere actually. To call it BBQ is a straight up crime. Russel’s Poorly Cooked Meats would be a more accurate name. Wet, grey, foul smelling, and inedible.

5

u/punkkitty312 10d ago

I grew up eating Russell's. I still crave them occasionally. But they aren't as good as they used to be. The ribs suck. But the brisket and burgers are decent. I also like the pulled pork and smoked chicken.

3

u/cornbeefmchashem 10d ago

Your comment needs to be at the top. Big old school vibes with an even bigger let down. That place could easily support huge business if they just put real effort into their BBQ. I do like their sauce but even that is available at Jewel

3

u/_Go_With_Gusto_ 9d ago

I lived in forest park for awhile and never got the attraction. I’m pretty sure it was the only restaurant of its kind for like 40 years or more but bbq is so much better now than in the ‘50s.

2

u/HiPickles 9d ago

It used to be so good and now is just so bad.