Jared Leonard’s BBQ Supply Co. restaurant will be opening in the former Yusho location at 1301 E. 53rd Street on November 1, 2017.
Leonard and his wife Amanda opened their original restaurant in Chicago’s West Ridge neighborhood over seven years ago, as a way for him to express his passion for hardwood smoked BBQ. The concept has expanded to include a retail space selling sauces and rubs and the city’s only dedicated BBQ school, with more than 5,000 past attendees.
The move to Hyde Park will give diners a taste of Leonard’s favorite Texas style BBQ, with slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, spare ribs, and sausage cooked in 8,000-lb Texas smokers over a hardwood fire. The wood is so essential to the experience that Leonard brings in truckloads of quarter-split post oak logs from central Texas to provide the quintessential flavor.
BBQ Supply Co.’s menu will also feature comfort-food sides including truffle mac and cheese, custard-filled cornbread, pit beans, Texas caviar (black-eyed peas in a vinaigrette dressing often served as a dip), house-made pickles, coleslaw, and deviled egg potato salad. Desserts include banana pudding, a skillet cookie, Texas sheet cake, apple crisp, and peach cobbler.
“After opening on the far north side in 2010, we’re excited to expand to the south side in Hyde Park, and look forward to sharing our love for BBQ with the community,” commented Leonard.
“53rd Street has become a true dining destination,” said James Hennessy, associate vice president for commercial real estate operations for the University. “BBQ Supply Co. will add another great option for barbecue fans to enjoy and we’re happy to welcome them to the neighborhood.”
