There is no restaurant that everyone likes. Some people love Fords, others a Chevy. I have seen some very mean spirited reviews of Russells. There are many kinds of BBQ, such as the Rendesvous in Memphis, or Bodacious BBQ in Texas, or Bubbalou's in Orlando, Florida. Each are different types of BBQ. Each are excellent in their own way. To suggest that Famous Dave's is better than Russels is absurd. Bad BBQ is in abundance all over the nation. There are many different styles. Memphis dry ribs, North Carolina, St. Louis baby backs, Kansas City, or Texas. Russell's has been around since the 1920's. You might also consider the Butler Inn, just outside Milwaukee in Butler, Wisconsin.\r
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I was first brought into Russells as a kid in the 40's. I now live in Florida, going back to Elmwood Park is almost a religious pilgrimage. Yes some things have changed a little. But essentially it is the same, or as much as it can be given that the meat isn't near the same today. (the animals are being raised and fed differently) and butchered differently. Same everywhere.\r
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If you want damn good ribs - good chicken etc - Russell's is about as good as it gets. But not the only good BBQ in the world. I never found anything near as good in Chicago.\r
Pros: It's good BBQ.
Cons: It is not society dining. It's for ""folks"" fingers sticky folks.
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